Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has appointed WittKieffer to assist in the national search for its next president. Current President James Smith will conclude his tenure on June 30, 2026, after a decade of leadership.

WittKieffer is known for its expertise in higher education searches, conducting over 500 leadership engagements annually. In the past five years, the firm has managed more than 140 presidential and chancellor searches across U.S. colleges and universities, including over 30 searches in Michigan. This includes recent presidential searches at Central Michigan, Ferris State, Saginaw Valley State, and Wayne State universities.

Nate Ford, chairman of Eastern Michigan's Board of Regents, stated: “The success of an important process such as this is dependent on identifying an extensive list of highly qualified candidates.” He emphasized WittKieffer’s expertise and connections in building a strong applicant pool.

The Presidential Search Committee comprises all members of the University's Board of Regents. Regent Anupam Chugh Sidhu will chair the Presidential Search Advisory Committee (PSAC), which will include representatives from various campus constituencies such as faculty, students, staff, alumni, and donors. The PSAC members will be announced soon.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 and serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines through its multiple colleges.