by
Kent Syverud
University President-elect Kent Syverud announced Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with brain cancer and will not serve as the school’s 16th president.
"Last week, I wasn’t feeling well, and I sought care at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse," Syverud, 69, said in a statement. "After further evaluation, I traveled to the University of Michigan to receive additional assessment from their specialists. I want to be straightforward with you: I have been diagnosed with a form of brain cancer."
"While my diagnosis and treatment will prevent me from serving as the 16th president of the University of Michigan, I am deeply moved by the generosity of the Regents, who have invited me to continue contributing as a professor in the Law School and as a special advisor to the Board. My wife, Ruth, and I look forward with great anticipation to rejoining this remarkable community."
He noted that he is undergoing treatment at the University of Michigan.
The university’s Board of Regents issued a statement:
"Kent will serve as a professor of law at our Law School and a special advisor to the board because we want him to have every opportunity to serve our university, even under these difficult circumstances."
Domenico Grasso will continue to serve as interim president as the board begins a new search.
Before being named U-M president, Syverud served as chancellor of Syracuse University.
