Ex-Pima Deputy Admin Garcia Steps Up as Key Ally for UA President

Dr. Francisco Garcia has been appointed as the chief of staff for University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella, according to an announcement made by UA officials on Monday.

Garcia, who previously held the position of chief medical officer and deputy county administrator for Pima County until January 3, departed from his role to pursue new opportunities, as disclosed by county officials last month.

In an email to university leadership, Garimella praised Garcia’s contributions in Pima County, noting that his work has significantly addressed critical public health needs. “I will depend on Dr. Garcia’s abilities and partnership as we shape, communicate, and implement a shared vision for our service to Arizona,” Garimella stated. He expressed enthusiasm about Garcia’s return to the UA and his expected positive influence on fostering collaboration and enhancing faculty and staff support.

In his new role, Garcia will oversee operations at the president’s office and act as the main point of contact for the Arizona Board of Regents, as well as coordinate activities within the senior leadership team.

Garimella assumed his position in August, succeeding Robert C. Robbins, whose leadership faced criticism related to financial and governance issues.

“I am honored to work alongside President Garimella,” Garcia remarked. He emphasized the university’s strengths, acknowledging its exceptional faculty, staff, and students. “Our responsibility as administrators is to facilitate their success,” Garcia noted, alluding to his previous experiences that showcased the university’s impact on the community.

Garcia has a long history with Pima County, where he served for 11 years, becoming deputy county administrator in 2019, managing various health and human services departments. A distinguished alumnus of the UA, Garcia is recognized internationally for his expertise in public health, border health, and women’s reproductive health.

In addition to his administrative roles, he has held significant positions on federal commissions, including the Board of Scientific Counselors for the CDC, and was recently elected a fellow of the National Academy of Medicine.

A faculty member at UA for 19 years, Garcia also contributed to public health education and obstetrics and gynecology as a distinguished outreach professor emeritus. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in proactive prevention strategies, placing Pima County at the forefront of testing and vaccination efforts, ultimately leading to one of the highest vaccination rates in urban areas across the nation.

Under his guidance, Pima County recorded lower rates of infection and mortality during the pandemic compared to other populous counties like Maricopa.