Open Searches

Eastern Michigan University (EMU), Michigan’s second-oldest public university, invites nominations, applications, and expressions of interest in its search for an accomplished and visionary academic leader to serve as its next Provost and Executive Vice President.

Dr. Brendan Kelly began his tenure as the 24th president of EMU on April 1, 2026, marking a significant new chapter for the institution. As President Brendan Kelly leads a laser-focused vision to establish EMU as Michigan’s first-choice comprehensive public university organized around applied learning, technical fluency, employer/industry partnerships, and career-connected student success, the Provost will have a unique opportunity to shape the University’s academic future and position in Michigan’s economy. Leading the partnership of faculty, deans, staff, students, and industry/community partners, the Provost will elevate EMU’s academic profile, grow enrollment and elevate student success, greatly expand and embed experiential learning, and lead the curation of educational experiences that students choose, remember, and carry with them long after graduation.

EMU is located in Ypsilanti, Michigan, a historic and culturally rich city in the heart of southeastern Michigan. Ranked by Zillow as one of the top five college towns in the nation, Ypsilanti offers a mix of historic charm, artistic energy, and strong community ties. The city is just minutes from Ann Arbor and less than an hour from Detroit, providing access to two major economic, cultural, and innovation hubs. The 800-acre campus features a blend of natural beauty, walkable green spaces, and modern facilities, including Eagle Crest Golf Course, a top-rated collegiate course located along the scenic Ford Lake shoreline.

To learn more about the opportunities and expectations for the next Provost, as well as the required and desired professional qualifications and personal qualities, please review the full search profile at www.academicsearch.org/EMUProvost.

Eastern Michigan University is being assisted by Academic Search. Nominations, inquiries, and expressions of interest can be submitted in confidence to EMUProvost@academicsearch.org. Applications can be submitted electronically, and in confidence, at www.academicsearch.org/EMUProvostApply. Applications must include a:

1. Current curriculum vitae;
2. Letter of application that ties the candidate’s experience specifically to the needs of EMU and the needs outlined in the search profile. Note: The cover letter should not simply repeat the accomplishments outlined in the CV. Please limit this letter to four (4) pages;
3. List of five professional references with full contact information and a note indicating the nature of the candidate’s working relationship with each. No references will be contacted without the explicit permission of the candidate.

The position is open until filled but only applications received by Thursday, August 27, 2026, can be assured full consideration.

Eastern Michigan University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, ancestry, disability, military status, veteran status or other non-merit reasons, in admissions, educational programs or activities and employment and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act.