Kent Syverud will begin his tenure as the University of Michigan’s 16th president on May 11, returning home to U-M’s Ann Arbor campus and marking the start of a new chapter in the university’s leadership.
Syverud, currently chancellor and president of Syracuse University, was selected in January following a national search. A distinguished legal scholar and experienced higher education leader, he brings more than a decade of presidential leadership experience and deep ties to U-M.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, Syverud came to Ann Arbor, where he earned a juris doctor from the Law School and a master’s degree in economics from U-M.
He later returned to the university as a faculty member, serving as assistant professor of law, then professor and associate dean for academic affairs at the Law School.
As the university prepares for Syverud’s arrival, President Domenico Grasso will conclude his service on May 8. Grasso has led the university since May 2025, re-establishing stability and engaged leadership during a tumultuous period. Provost Laurie McCauley will serve as acting president on May 9 and 10.
Elexis Gillian
Oh boy…