Office of the President

Western Michigan University's Main Campus, featuring the WMU seal sculpture, student center and Sangren Hall.

University Leadership

The Western Michigan University community is supported by three distinct groups of administrative leaders. Senior leaders are responsible for governing, setting a strategic vision, providing academic and financial oversight and serving students, faculty and staff.

Trustees Kara Wood and James Liggins Jr. with Chair Shelly Edgerton.

Board of Trustees

The WMU Board of Trustees is the governing body of the University. It comprises eight members appointed to eight-year terms by the Michigan governor.

President's Cabinet

The President's Cabinet is comprised of divisional leaders who work in collaboration with the president to set the strategic direction of the University, oversee operations and implement enterprise initiatives.

Provost's Council

Led by academic administrators, college deans and student success leaders, the Provost's Council oversees the educational mission of Western, including pedagogy, curriculum and accreditation.

President's Cabinet

Learn more about the members of the President's Cabinet below.

Russ Kavalhuna

President

Dr. Diane Anderson

Vice President for Student Affairs

Dan Bartholomae

Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics

Jeffrey Breneman

Vice President for Government Relations and and External Partnerships

Dr. Chris Cheatham

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Jessie Clemence

Senior Executive Assistant Lead

Paula M. Davis

Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications

Keith Hahn

General Counsel

Mark Lindemood

Interim Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of the WMU Foundation

Dr. Candy McCorkle-Boughton

Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion

Tony Proudfoot

Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communications

Dr. Kahler Schuemann

Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Board of Trustees

Dr. Remzi Seker

Vice President for Research and Innovation

Jan Van Der Kley

Vice President for Business and Finance and Chief Financial Officer

Executive Searches

As of July 1, 2025, Western Michigan University has the following open executive position.

Vice President for University Advancement and Executive Director of the WMU Foundation

Western Michigan University is inviting applications, nominations and expressions of interest for its next Vice President for University Advancement and Executive Director of the WMU Foundation. Greenwood Asher & Associates is assisting Western in this search. To ensure full consideration, applications should be received by Friday, Sept. 8, 2025.

Apply or nominate a candidate

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A student creating a W with her hands on the stage of Miller Auditorium at WMU commencement.

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Strategic Plan

Organization Chart

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