Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the appointment of Kirk Profit and Chris Kaufman to the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Board of Regents. Their terms will begin in January 2027, following the expiration of current regents Michael Hawks and Chad Newton at the end of this year.
Kirk Profit, based in Ann Arbor, is a former state legislator and previously co-owned Governmental Consulting Services, Inc. He holds a Bachelor of Science in philosophy and political science from EMU and a Juris Doctor from University of Detroit Mercy. Profit’s term will run from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2034. He will succeed Chad Newton.
Chris Kaufman, from Detroit, is known as the co-founder of StockX. Kaufman earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from EMU, a Master of Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art, and a Master of Science in learning and organizational change from Northwestern University. His term will also span January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2034. He will take over for Mike Hawks.
The appointments are pending advice and consent by the Senate.
Board Chair Nathan Ford said: “Chris Kaufman and Kirk Profit embody the leadership, vision, and dedication that will help guide Eastern Michigan University into its next chapter. Chris brings a powerful entrepreneurial perspective and deep ties to our academic mission, while Kirk’s extensive public service and legal experience strengthen our governance and community connections. We are grateful to Governor Whitmer for appointing leaders who understand the transformative impact of higher education and who share Eastern’s commitment to opportunity, equity, and service.”
EMU President-Elect Brendan Kelly added: “This is an exciting moment of momentum and opportunity at Eastern. Chris and Kirk both bring not only professional distinction, but a personal commitment to EMU and the transformational future of the institution. Their expertise in innovation and public service will help EMU elevate impact, enhance academic excellence, and prepare our students to lead in a rapidly changing world. Their service will strengthen our mission to advance lives through education and ensure our university is where every student can thrive.”
Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan’s second-oldest public university. The university currently enrolls more than 12,000 students across undergraduate through doctoral programs in arts, sciences, business, education, engineering/technology, health/human services fields as well as its Graduate School. More than 200 undergraduate majors/minors are available alongside graduate programs (official website). The campus features historic architecture along with modern facilities designed for student success (official website).
EMU has received national recognition for various academic programs (official website) while focusing on hands-on learning experiences that build critical thinking skills needed for societal contributions (official website). The university prepares students for meaningful careers by emphasizing applied education practices (official website).
For more information about Eastern Michigan University or updates on news or activities visit the official website or EMU Today.
