Ann Arbor Times

YPSILANTI -- In remarks to the Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents on June 20, University President James Smith announced his intention to depart the University at the conclusion of his current contract on June 30, 2026. Smith, the longest-serving Michigan public university president among current presidents, will step aside after ten years since he began his duties on July 1, 2016.

Board of Regents Chair Chad Newton expressed his appreciation for President Smith’s ongoing work and for the timing of the announcement to begin preparing for the search process for Smith’s successor.

Upon his appointment, President Smith had hoped to lead the University for ten years. In his remarks, Smith said, “It has been an absolute joy and fundamental honor to serve in this role, as President at EMU, for the eight years that have evolved and it will be (maybe even more so) for the remaining two years that stand before me and all of us.

“I am acutely aware of the challenges and complex timelines required to find and install the next Eastern Michigan University president. That timeline, to be sure, is no less than 18 months in duration — I want those 18 months to be as productive as humanly possible and thus I make this declaration today.

“I remain as committed as ever to furthering the work of this great institution as I enter my final two years as president. My plans are to work as hard for this institution on my last day of employment as I did on my first day in the year 2016.”

Board of Regents Chair Newton stated, “Your leadership continues to guide the University in countless positive ways. Your commitment to excellence is unwavering – and I have no doubt that it will continue over the next two years. On behalf of the Board, your statement today is greatly appreciated. It sets the stage for what’s next – providing the Board and the University community with sufficient time to plan for a smooth transition that maintains institutional stability and momentum experienced under your leadership.

“In the months ahead, the Board will consult with important constituent groups including faculty, staff, students, and alumni and begin a search process to identify candidates who will advance the University’s distinctive mission and heritage.

“While further details and a timetable have not been established, it is my commitment to share further updates as those plans are formed.

“President Smith, your presidency has been transformational for Eastern Michigan University. We look forward to your continued leadership during these next two years as we embark on searching for your successor.”

In concluding his remarks, Smith added: “The phrase ‘institution of opportunity,’ embedded in the University’s mission statement remains relevant today. This University has changed lives for better over its 175-year history. We see it each day. That core principle will remain at heart of our future decades. I extend deep appreciation to our students faculty staff alumni donors friends commitment support moving forward purpose optimism service students all kinds backgrounds levels resources."

Smith shared some accomplishments during his tenure:

- Comprehensive reimagining renovation construction new student housing

- Construction expansion Sill Hall transformed into state-of-the-art GameAbove College Engineering Technology

- Expansive renovation Strong Hall foundation STEM curriculum

- Extensive facelift George Gervin GameAbove Center

- Increased focus resources student physical emotional well-being investments Rec/IM Community Behavioral Health Clinic Counseling Psychological Services campus health center

- Expansion Swoop’s Food Pantry addressing food insecurity

- Completion largest fundraising campaign Give Rise surpassing $100 million raising more than $119 million scholarships faculty support academic program investments

- Engagement key donors such GameAbove Windgate Foundation Halle Foundation Jack Roush chairman Roush Enterprises

- Investments sustainability reducing carbon footprint earning recognition Princeton Review Green Colleges Sustainability Tracking Assessment Rating System (STARS) Association Advancement Sustainability Higher Education

- Restored financial platform meeting accreditation bodies requirements Higher Learning Commission

President Smith's full remarks can be found on President's communication page.

Comments from Board Chair Newton can be found on Board website.

About Eastern Michigan University:

Founded in 1849 second oldest public university Michigan serves more than 13k students pursuing undergraduate graduate specialist doctoral certificate degrees arts sciences professions delivered through Colleges Arts Sciences Business Education Engineering Technology Health Human Services graduate school National publications regularly recognize EMU excellence diversity commitment applied education Visit rankings points pride websites learn more For information visit University's website Stay up date news activities announcements visit EMU Today