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UM President-Elect Diagnosed with Brain Cancer, Steps Down
15 Apr
Summary
- University of Michigan president-elect Kent Syverud is undergoing brain cancer treatment.
- He has withdrawn from his role as president due to his diagnosis.
- Syverud will continue as a law professor and advisor to the board.

University of Michigan president-elect Kent Syverud announced on Wednesday that he is receiving treatment for a form of brain cancer, leading him to step down from his presidential duties. Syverud sought medical care after feeling unwell last week, initially at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, followed by an assessment at the University of Michigan. He is currently undergoing treatment at the university.
Syverud, who was approved for the presidency in January after serving Syracuse University, expressed his determination to face the challenge. The University of Michigan Board of Regents has invited him to continue his affiliation as a professor in the Law School and as a special advisor to the board. Mark Bernstein, Chair of the Board of Regents, stated that the board will re-engage the presidential search process promptly. Domenico Grasso will continue as interim president until a new leader is in place.