The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Board of Regents has approved several measures to formalize the upcoming presidential transition, recognize outgoing President James Smith, and implement a new procedure for evaluating the university president.
Brendan Kelly will begin his term as EMU president on April 1, 2026. The board amended his employment agreement to include a transition period from March 1-31, 2026. During this time, Dr. Kelly will serve as president-elect and work with President Smith and university leadership to prepare for his new role through meetings and training on university policies and procedures.
The board also approved an amendment to President James M. Smith’s contract, establishing March 31, 2026, as the end of his presidential term. The amendment states that “as of March 31, 2026, President shall have fulfilled all duties and services required of him as President of Eastern Michigan University.” Following this date, Smith will return to full-time faculty status after an administrative leave extending until the start of the Fall 2027 semester. The university will assist with moving arrangements related to vacating University House by June 30, 2026.
To honor Smith’s decade of service, the board unanimously granted him the honorary title of President Emeritus effective April 1, 2026. The recommendation cited his “steady, compassionate leadership during the COVID‑19 pandemic” and his contribution to “the most successful fundraising campaign in its history.”
During Smith’s tenure, EMU saw significant capital improvements such as Strong Hall; the IHA health complex; the Incarnati Athletic Center; Sill Hall for engineering and technology; renovations to Rec/IM; Windgate Arts Complex; and George Gervin GameAbove Center.
The board also adopted a new administrative procedure for presidential evaluation that will take effect with Dr. Kelly’s presidency. This framework includes annual assessments, comprehensive reviews every three years, and periodic check-ins between the president and board chair. The process aims to “inform and guide successful leadership” while fostering trust and supporting professional development.
“Today’s actions reflect both our deep gratitude for President Smith’s decade of service and our confidence in the leadership Dr. Kelly will bring to Eastern Michigan University,” said Nate Ford, chair of the EMU Board of Regents. “President Smith has guided Eastern through extraordinary moments and has helped the University navigate significant challenges with steadiness and care. As we welcome Dr. Kelly, we look forward to a smooth transition and a continued focus on student success, academic excellence, and the strategic priorities that matter most to our community.”
Founded in 1849, EMU is Michigan’s second-oldest public university with more than 12,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields including arts, sciences, business, education, engineering and technology, health services, and more than 200 majors or minors according to its official website. The campus features both historic architecture and modern facilities designed to support student achievement https://www.emich.edu/. Nationally recognized for its programs in multiple disciplines https://www.emich.edu/, EMU emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for meaningful contributions in society https://www.emich.edu/.
