Earlier today, University president candidate Michael Gottfredson sat down with the media relations department at the University of California, Irvine to discuss his potential departure. Below is a copy of the transcript.
Why are you interested in leaving UC Irvine?
I was not interested in leaving UC Irvine.@@dude…what?@@ I’m extremely proud of our achievements and the strides we’ve made in a relatively short period of time. The University of Oregon sought me out and presented an opportunity that I could not ignore.@@’so, thus, i am interested in leaving uc irvine’ or better yet:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaiSHcHM0PA@@
Does the current state budget environment make leaving UC Irvine a more attractive option than it was five years ago?
I am an alumnus of the University of California system, so my devotion runs deep. While I am disappointed in the current budget challenges, they did not have a factor in my decision to pursue the Oregon opportunity.
Why tell us now? Why not wait until the job offer is confirmed?
The Oregon University System formally announced my sole candidacy this morning.@@’because i don’t need your ass anymore!’@@
If you are presented an offer, would you accept it?
I am awaiting a formal offer before I make a final decision.
When is your expected last day?
While my departure is not confirmed, I would provide an adequate transition time of several weeks if I decide to move on.
If you get the Oregon job, do you plan to take UC Irvine colleagues with you?
I’ve made no such plans.
Will you be recommending a replacement?
The Chancellor and I have had several succession-planning discussions over the years. I’m sure we’ll have several more if I decide to depart. And, I would expect him to seek the advice of many colleagues.