WMU board extends President Kavalhuna to 8 years, signaling enduring commitment
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The WMU Board of Trustees has voted to extend President Russ Kavalhuna’s contract to eight years, affirming stability and trusted leadership for the University’s future.
“When we were searching for our next president, we wanted a leader who could take us to the next level where we are among the leading research institutions in the world,” said WMU Board of Trustees Chair Alan Turfe. “Russ stood out among a very competitive pool of candidates. He has exceeded our expectations. There is no better indication of his leadership style than his request to decline a raise this year.”
“With only 10 presidents in our 123-year history, our tradition of enduring leadership has made Western special. Russ’s long-term commitment will provide a stable foundation that directly benefits our students, faculty and staff as we navigate a disrupted higher education landscape,” Turfe added.
Universities nationwide, from elite powerhouses to small public institutions, are adapting to the demographic cliff, federal policies that have reduced pipelines for international students and research funds, and changing student expectations brought about by artificial intelligence.
“The call for new directions in higher education is coming from all corners, and I believe we can build a new future where Experience-Driven Learning is the path to authentic human capacities,” Kavalhuna said. “We are poised to be a distinctive R1 research institution where students and faculty directly solve the problems business, government and nonprofits face in a changing world.”
Kavalhuna sees an emerging future for WMU where students work alongside faculty on high-value, real-stakes opportunities that make the most of their learning, develop a career and life narrative, and grow uniquely human skills, all while solving tough societal problems.
“In my numerous conversations with faculty, staff, students and alumni, I have heard an eagerness for Western to be a leading institution at a pivotal time in American higher education as we rise to the evolving needs of students, families and the public who are navigating a changing world.”
Additional board actions
Trustees approved a $432 million 2026-27 operating budget, a 1.6% increase from 2025-26. The budget closes a $4.7 million budget gap by eliminating positions that have been open for nine or more months, anticipated participation in a faculty Voluntary Early Separation Program, and other measures.
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