MSU president Kevin Guskiewicz is leaving for Clemson
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Michigan State president Kevin Guskiewicz. Photo: MSU Communications and Marketing
Michigan State president Kevin Guskiewicz is leaving to lead Clemson University, partially due to "discouraging behavior by a few trustees," he announced Wednesday.
Why it matters: Circumstances surrounding Guskiewicz's departure have once again exposed turmoil at the university's highest levels, leaving Michigan State to find its sixth president in eight years.
State of play: Both of Michigan's signature universities now have presidential vacancies to fill.
- U-M president-elect Kent Syverud said last month he would not take office after a brain cancer diagnosis.
Catch up quick: Guskiewicz's hiring in December 2023 was touted as a new chapter in Michigan State leadership.
- Disagreements with the Board of Trustees, however, emerged this month during a debate over a new ethics policy. Board Chair Briana Scott said some trustees had undermined the administration and the board, Bridge Michigan reported.
- Fearing Guskiewicz could leave out of frustration, the board also voted on May 17 to double his pay to $2 million.
What he's saying: Guskiewicz celebrated advancements in health sciences, the Green and White Council and other initiatives during his tenure in Wednesday's letter to the university.
- "I have always said that your health, family and faith must come first above all else. The ongoing and continuous nature of the aforementioned actions has created an unsustainable situation."
What's next: Following Guskiewicz's announcement, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said it's time to change how university boards are selected. She expressed support for a recent proposal to appoint, rather than elect, university board members.
- "Michigan now faces an important moment, with both Michigan State University and the University of Michigan navigating critical leadership transitions," Whitmer said in a statement to the Detroit News. "I will be watching both closely."