A message from President Drake about UC National Laboratories Vice President Craig Leasure

President Drake shared the message below on Jan. 24, 2024.

Dear colleagues,

I am writing today to share the news that Craig Leasure will step down as Vice President of UC National Laboratories at the end of this month. Over the years, Craig has served the University of California in a number of important capacities, including through leadership roles here at UCOP and at Los Alamos National Laboratory. In each of these roles, Craig has helped us preserve and build on the legacy of excellence and innovation that defines our national lab work and worked to strengthen our relationships with private and government partners, including the Department of Energy. Craig is a brilliant scientist, a thoughtful leader, and a wonderful colleague — and he will be missed here at the Office of the President. 

In the meantime, pending Regents’ approval later today, Associate Vice President for UC National Laboratories June Yu will serve as Interim Vice President while we conduct a national search for Craig’s permanent replacement. I’m grateful to June for agreeing to step in and ensure a smooth transition. Craig has also graciously agreed to return to the University later this year for a short time in an advisory capacity to June and help us shepherd a few important projects to completion. 

Please join me in congratulating Craig on his well-deserved retirement and thank him for his willingness to continue to serve the University of California in a new capacity.

Sincerely,

Michael V. Drake, M.D.

President