ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The University of Michigan’s president-elect announced Wednesday that he must withdraw from the position due to a brain cancer diagnosis.
Kent Syverud, who currently serves as Syracuse University’s chancellor, revealed he learned of his condition following health concerns that arose last week.
“I am currently undergoing treatment at the University of Michigan. … I am aware that I am one of many, many people who face a diagnosis like this — people who show up each day with courage,” Syverud stated. “I take inspiration from all of them.”
The university selected Syverud for the presidency in January, with his tenure scheduled to begin in May.
Domenico Grasso, who has been serving as Michigan’s interim president, will continue in that role as the Board of Regents conducts a new search for permanent leadership.
Rather than assuming the presidency, Syverud will join Michigan’s law school faculty and provide advisory support to the Board of Regents, according to university officials.
The position became available after Santa Ono served as president through 2025, when he was expected to transition to leading the University of Florida. However, that appointment fell through when Florida’s Board of Governors rejected his candidacy in a 10-6 vote last June.
Conservative critics had opposed Ono’s appointment, citing his previous advocacy for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and other programs they considered problematic liberal policies.
