Kent Syverud will start his role as the University of Michigan’s 16th president on May 11, according to a March 31 announcement. Syverud returns to the Ann Arbor campus, bringing extensive experience in higher education leadership and legal scholarship.
Syverud was chosen for the position in January after a national search. He is currently chancellor and president at Syracuse University and has more than ten years of presidential leadership experience. His academic background includes earning a juris doctor from the University of Michigan Law School and a master’s degree in economics from U-M, following his undergraduate studies at Georgetown University School of Foreign Service. He also previously served as assistant professor, professor, and associate dean for academic affairs at U-M’s Law School.
President Domenico Grasso will end his service on May 8 after leading the university since May 2025. Provost Laurie McCauley is set to serve as acting president on May 9 and 10 before Syverud assumes office.
The University of Michigan Ann Arbor is recognized as a public research university that offers diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its schools and colleges, according to the official website. The institution extends its reach through campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint according to the official website.
The university is known for advancing knowledge, art, and academic principles while developing leaders who address challenges within Michigan and beyond according to the official website. Its sports teams are called the Wolverines according to the official website.
