Michigan Regents Name Vanderbilt Provost Cybele Raver 17th President

University of Michigan

The governing board voted unanimously to appoint the developmental psychologist and research executive to lead the university beginning December 1.

AI-assisted summary of University of Michigan - September 2026 Regents' Special Meeting — original source. Check the original for full context.

Source published: 2026-09-01

Key ideas

The University of Michigan Board of Regents voted unanimously to elect Dr. Cybele Raver as the institution's 17th president, with her term officially set to begin on December 1, 2026. (3:19)
Dr. Raver transitions to U-M from Vanderbilt University, where she served as Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, following prior academic and leadership appointments at NYU, the University of Chicago, and Cornell. (0:40)
The regents repeatedly commended Interim President Domenico Grasso for providing steady executive leadership across two separate transitional periods in the university's recent history. (9:44)
In her address, Dr. Raver outlined a data-driven leadership philosophy as a quantitative social scientist, emphasizing active listening, swift evidence-based decision-making, and deep engagement across the Ann Arbor, Flint, Dearborn, and Michigan Medicine campuses. (17:04)

Detailed notes

## Background Published on YouTube by the official University of Michigan channel on September 1, 2026, this video captures a special meeting of the university's Board of Regents. No accompanying show notes or description were provided with the broadcast.

## TL;DR The University of Michigan Board of Regents convened to formally and unanimously elect Dr. Cybele Raver, Provost of Vanderbilt University, as the 17th president of the university. Regents offered heartfelt gratitude to Interim President Domenico Grasso for his steady stewardship through challenging transitions, while praising Dr. Raver's extensive academic career, moral integrity, and collaborative executive leadership. Accepting the appointment ahead of her December 1, 2026 start date, Dr. Raver outlined her quantitative, listening-centered approach to governance, pledged deep commitment to all three campuses and Michigan Medicine, and received a ceremonial Tiffany & Co. Block M pin.

## Atmosphere & style The session balances constitutional gravity with an upbeat, celebratory warmth, blending formal procedural motions with spontaneous laughter, collegiate humor, and genuine excitement. An overarching sense of institutional relief and optimism pervades the room as regents warmly honor Interim President Grasso before enthusiastically welcoming Dr. Raver and her family into the campus community. Dr. Raver's address bridges senior administrative poise with contagious school spirit, creating an inspiring, familial launch for the university's next chapter.

## Bulletin - [03:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=199s) The University of Michigan Board of Regents voted unanimously to elect Dr. Cybele Raver as the institution's 17th president, with her term officially set to begin on December 1, 2026. - [00:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=40s) Dr. Raver transitions to U-M from Vanderbilt University, where she served as Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, following prior academic and leadership appointments at NYU, the University of Chicago, and Cornell. - [09:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=584s) The regents repeatedly commended Interim President Domenico Grasso for providing steady executive leadership across two separate transitional periods in the university's recent history. - [17:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1024s) In her address, Dr. Raver outlined a data-driven leadership philosophy as a quantitative social scientist, emphasizing active listening, swift evidence-based decision-making, and deep engagement across the Ann Arbor, Flint, Dearborn, and Michigan Medicine campuses.

## Key takeaways - [00:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=40s) The Board of Regents exercised its constitutional authority under Article 8, Section 5 of the Michigan Constitution to elect the university's principal executive officer. - [00:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=40s) Search Committee Co-Chair Michael Behm highlighted Dr. Cybele Raver's extensive background in developmental psychology, including degrees from Harvard and Yale, alongside her executive track record at Vanderbilt University. - [03:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=199s) Regent Mark Bernstein formally moved to nominate Dr. Cybele Raver as the 17th president of the University of Michigan, which passed with unanimous board approval. - [04:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=254s) Regent Denise Ilitch highlighted Raver's collaborative nature and inner strength, asking the university community to extend patience and support as she adjusts to campus traditions and culture. - [06:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=406s) Regent Jordan Acker praised Dr. Raver's appointment as an exceptional role model for female leadership across higher education and society. - [08:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=480s) Regent Mark Bernstein emphasized Raver's moral integrity and sense of purpose, noting that she actively chose Michigan amid multiple leadership options. - [09:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=584s) Regent Sarah Hubbard noted that Michigan's complex scope—spanning major research, academic medicine, and state service—requires proven executive experience across elite institutions. - [11:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=714s) Regent Paul Brown expressed gratitude for Interim President Domenico Grasso's steady guidance through institutional turbulence and praised Raver's focus on serving all regions of Michigan. - [13:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=805s) Chair Michael Behm invoked inaugural president Henry Philip Tappan's charge to carry the young university 'forward to perfection' as a benchmark for Raver's leadership. - [17:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1024s) Dr. Raver affirmed her commitment to expanding Michigan's statewide and global impact through research, clinical care, and accessibility initiatives such as the Go Blue Guarantee. - [17:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1024s) Dr. Raver described her operational approach as that of a quantitative social scientist who gathers data, listens broadly across constituencies, and executes decisive institutional strategy. - [22:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1364s) The meeting concluded with Chair Behm ceremonially presenting Dr. Raver with a Tiffany & Co.-designed Block M pin to celebrate her arrival.

## Detailed walkthrough ### [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=0s) Call to Order and Roll Call

The special meeting of the University of Michigan Board of Regents is called to order, having been convened at the request of all board members. Interim President Domenico Grasso initiates the official roll call of the regents, confirming the attendance of:

- Regent Jordan Acker (Present) - Regent Michael Behm (Here) - Regent Mark Bernstein (Present) - Regent Paul Brown (Here) - Regent Sarah Hubbard (Here) - Regent Denise Ilitch (Here) - Regent Michael Meyers (Here) - Regent Katherine White (Present via Zoom)

Following confirmation of a full quorum, the meeting is turned over to Regent Michael Behm, co-chair of the Presidential Search Committee.

---

[00:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=40s) Constitutional Authority and Introduction of Dr. Cybele Raver

Regent Michael Behm opens his remarks by grounding the day's action in the governing legal framework, noting that the Board of Regents derives its authority directly from Article 8, Section 5 of the Michigan Constitution: *"The board shall, as often as necessary, elect a president of the institution under its supervision. This person shall be the principal executive officer of the institution."* He announces that the comprehensive search process has formally concluded and that the board is convening to elect Dr. Cybele Raver as the next president of the University of Michigan.

Behm outlines Dr. Raver’s distinguished career as a developmental psychologist and senior higher education executive, currently serving as Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Vanderbilt University. Academically, she earned her Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University and her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from Yale University. Her faculty and scholarly career began at Cornell University, followed by appointments at the University of Chicago and New York University (NYU) before her move to Vanderbilt.

At Vanderbilt, Dr. Raver spearheaded substantial growth across the university's research enterprise, recruited premier faculty talent, expanded the institutional footprint nationwide, and launched a new college on the Nashville campus. Behm cites Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel Diermeier, who characterized her impact during her tenure there as "profound." Behm stresses that her collaborative approach and transformational track record make her uniquely equipped to guide Michigan through impending higher education challenges.

Before yielding the floor, Behm expresses deep gratitude to the presidential search participants: - Fellow members of the Board of Regents - The Presidential Search Advisory Committee - Vice President and Secretary of the University Jon Kinsey and his administrative team - Executive search consultants Mary Gorman and Alexis Stiles from Spencer Stuart - University students, faculty, staff, alumni, and donors

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Academic and Leadership Path of Dr. Cybele Raver accDescr: Flowchart displaying Dr. Cybele Raver's academic credentials and administrative progression leading to the presidency of U-M.

subgraph Degrees["Education"] direction LR Harvard["Harvard University<br>(B.A.)"] --> Yale["Yale University<br>(Ph.D. Developmental Psychology)"] end

subgraph Faculty["Faculty & Prior Leadership"] direction LR Cornell["Cornell University"] --> Chicago["University of Chicago"] Chicago --> NYU["New York University"] end

subgraph Vanderbilt["Senior Administration"] Vandy["Vanderbilt University<br>Provost & Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs"] end

subgraph UMich["Presidency"] UM["University of Michigan<br>17th President"] end

Degrees --> Faculty Faculty --> Vanderbilt Vanderbilt --> UMich ```

---

[03:19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=199s) Official Nomination and Unanimous Election

Regent Mark Bernstein, co-chair of the Presidential Search Committee, officially presents the nomination pursuant to Article 8, Section 5 of the Michigan Constitution and subject to the agreed-upon letter of agreement attached to the meeting minutes. Bernstein formally nominates Dr. Cybele Raver to serve as the 17th president of the University of Michigan.

The motion is promptly seconded, and when called for a vote, the Board of Regents approves the nomination with a unanimous chorus of "Aye," drawing enthusiastic applause across the room.

---

[04:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=254s) Regent Denise Ilitch on Leadership, Trust, and the "Michigan Way"

Regent Denise Ilitch opens regent commentary with unreserved excitement, remarking humorously that she felt like giving a high-five but restrained herself in the interest of meeting decorum. She describes the search process as "phenomenal" and singles out Dr. Raver’s core character traits, emphasizing that she is a trusted leader who excels at active listening and hearing every perspective across a massive institution.

Ilitch highlights Dr. Raver's collaborative nature, noting that solving problems by getting everyone talking to one another is essential for keeping a sprawling community unified around shared goals. In addition to her scholarly stature, Ilitch praises Raver's "strong inner strength," calling it an indispensable trait for anyone leading Michigan personnel through change.

Ilitch makes a direct plea to the campus community, urging students, faculty, and staff to offer the incoming president a generous transition: - Give her a warm welcome and allow her a genuine "honeymoon" period. - Extend patience and time as she immerses herself in campus culture, traditions, and the "Michigan way." - Recognize her dedication in choosing Michigan, pointing out that Dr. Raver actively passed up other high-profile opportunities to lead U-M. - Appreciate her personality, noting that on top of her vision to change the world, "She's really fun to be around."

---

[06:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=406s) Regent Jordan Acker on Role Models for Future Leaders

Regent Jordan Acker follows, jokingly noting how convenient it is to speak after Regent Ilitch because he can simply endorse everything she said. He credits the board and search committee for surfacing an exceptional finalist out of a deeply competitive and talented candidate pool.

Acker centers his reflection on the cultural and personal impact of the appointment, noting how vital visible role models are in contemporary society. Looking at Dr. Raver through the lens of a parent raising daughters, he describes her as a model of exceptional female leadership: *"This is a person that is not just a leader, but is someone that we can be proud of and proud to have as our president."* He echoes Ilitch's sentiment that Raver's warmth and humor will quickly win over the broader university community, closing with an energetic "Go Blue."

---

[08:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=480s) Regent Mark Bernstein on Campus Renewal and Moral Character

Regent Mark Bernstein connects the historic vote to the energy of early autumn on campus, observing that the special meeting coincides with the first week of classes. Walking through Ann Arbor earlier that morning, he felt the vivid reminder of why a university campus in the fall is unparalleled, as thousands of students embark on personal journeys of discovery.

Bernstein characterizes this transition as a parallel moment of transformation for the institution itself. He shares that throughout the recruitment process, the regents were consistently moved by Raver’s lucid sense of mission, executive success, and sharp understanding of Michigan's particular opportunities. Most paramount, Bernstein notes, are "her decency and her integrity." He underscores that while Dr. Raver has built an extraordinary career that prepared her to run any major research university, she is distinctively suited for Ann Arbor: *"She is more than ready to be a university president, and most importantly, she's ready to be our president."*

---

[09:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=584s) Regents Sarah Hubbard and Michael Meyers on Scale, Transition, and Wolverine Ties

Regent Sarah Hubbard steps forward to offer sincere gratitude to Interim President Domenico Grasso for his steady executive leadership during a crucial transitional period. Turning to Dr. Raver, Hubbard explains why her qualifications fit the complexity of U-M, emphasizing that Michigan is not a typical university: it balances an elite academic core, a massive research apparatus, a premier academic medical center, and a public mission serving the entire state and world. Raver’s background across NYU, Cornell, Chicago, and Vanderbilt proves her capacity to assemble elite teams and navigate high-stakes environments. Hubbard terms this a "pivotal time" requiring a president who can unite campus factions, elevate research benchmarks, and defend Michigan’s status as the nation's foremost public university.

Regent Michael Meyers follows by offering his own heartfelt thanks to Grasso, humorously pointing out that the board had called upon Grasso to step into leadership "not once, but twice" to bridge crucial institutional chapters. Meyers reminds attendees of the historical gravity of the day: across more than two centuries, an election like this "has only happened 17 times." Formally welcoming Raver and her family into the Wolverine fold, Meyers concludes with warmth: *"You are now officially all Wolverines."* Interim President Grasso then prepares to pass the floor to Regent Paul Brown.

[11:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=714s) Regent Brown's Remarks and Praise for Leadership

Regent Brown speaks next, opening with a warm note of thanks to interim president Domenico Grasso. Brown emphasizes that Grasso stepped into the university's presidency during an exceptionally trying period marked by severe institutional challenges. Speaking personally, on behalf of his family, and representing staff, alumni, and students, Brown expresses deep gratitude for Grasso's steady hand, calling his stewardship "critical to the success of our university."

Turning his attention to incoming president Dr. C. Cybele Raver, Brown directs his first words to Raver's family, thanking them for raising such a remarkable daughter within a "house of artists," a creative background he believes will deeply benefit the entire university community. Reflecting on his own roots in Northern Michigan, Brown notes that the University of Michigan's impact and reach matter just as profoundly in the Upper Peninsula as they do downriver. He recalls an interview conducted in his hometown during the search process as particularly poignant, sharing that Raver clearly demonstrated an understanding that Michigan's core mission is "purely to support humanity and particularly the people of the state of Michigan." Echoing earlier comments by Regent Bernstein, Brown concludes that while the candidate pool was exceptional, Raver stood out as the very brightest and best to lead the university forward.

[13:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=805s) Chair Behm Welcomes the 17th President

Board Chair Mark Behm formally takes the floor to welcome Dr. Cybele Raver as the University of Michigan's 17th president, extending greetings to her mother Tina, stepfather Chris, and sister Kim. Behm describes the university as the greatest in the world, rooted in an unwavering dedication to the public interest. He lauds the distinct pillars of the campus community: exceptional faculty who balance scholarship, teaching, clinical work, and service; opinionated, energetic students who engage deeply with campus life; and the staff who embody the phrase "We make Blue go." He also nods to the fierce loyalty of Michigan alumni, including himself and his wife Susan.

Behm characterizes the presidency at Michigan as both the finest job in higher education and its most demanding, because society constantly looks to the institution for answers, breakthroughs, and leadership. He playfully references Raver's background as an alumna of Harvard—joking about JFK's famous moniker, "the Michigan of the East"—which draws laughs from the room. Looking ahead across the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses, Behm invokes the inaugural address of Michigan's first president, Dr. Henry Philip Tappan: *"This young university, should we not carry it forward to perfection?"* Calling this the true standard of the "Leaders and the Best," Behm invites Dr. Raver to take the podium.

- Core constituencies honored: faculty, students, dedicated staff ("We make Blue go"), and fiercely loyal alumni. - Presidential search: broad campus committee representing faculty, students, staff, and alumni helped select the top candidate. - Historical touchstone: First U-M president Henry Philip Tappan's charge to carry the institution "forward to perfection."

[17:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1024s) Dr. Cybele Raver's Vision and Leadership Style

Dr. Cybele Raver steps to the podium, expressing deep gratitude to Chair Behm, the Board of Regents, and President Grasso, whom she commends for answering the call to lead the university not once, but twice. She acknowledges her colleagues and students from Vanderbilt University, her family in attendance, and her daughter Natalie, who was unable to travel due to starting graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania. Raver also proudly shares that her stepfather, originally from Flint, is himself a Michigan alumnus. She describes Michigan as an intellectual powerhouse with an unmatched public mission, highlighted by initiatives like the Go Blue Guarantee, cutting-edge discovery across security, democracy, healthcare, and economic prosperity, and a unique campus culture that blends a strong sense of community with a fierce drive to win.

Raver outlines her core identity and operational approach, explaining that as a quantitative social scientist, she leads by listening carefully, analyzing data, and taking decisive action once the evidence is clear. Addressing the campus culture, she pledges to be visible and fully engaged across all three campuses and Michigan Medicine. She shares early experiences of wearing a Block M cap through airports, instantly receiving smiles and "Go Blue" greetings from strangers. Noting that her official start date is December 1st, she invites ongoing community input and mentions her personal Michigan bucket list, which includes running the Nichols Arboretum, spinning The Cube, attending concerts at Hill Auditorium, cheering at Yost Ice Arena, softball and basketball games, singing the fight song, and spending Saturdays at Michigan Stadium.

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Dr. Cybele Raver's Decision-Making and Leadership Model accDescr: Flowchart illustrating Dr. Raver's three-step leadership philosophy from evidence gathering to community impact.

subgraph Listen["1. Inquire & Understand"] L1["Listen deeply to stakeholders\n(Faculty, Staff, Students, Alumni)"] L2["Quantitative social scientist approach\n(Analyze complex data & evidence)"] end

subgraph Decide["2. Action & Investment"] D1["Make swift, decisive decisions"] D2["Invest heavily in people\nand foundational ideas"] end

subgraph Impact["3. Strategic Mission"] I1["Advance statewide & global reach\n(Ann Arbor, Flint, Dearborn, Medicine)"] I2["Uphold public mission\n(Go Blue Guarantee, discovery, health)"] end

L1 --> L2 L2 --> D1 D1 --> D2 D2 --> I1 D2 --> I2 ```

- Official start date: December 1, 2026. - Strategic pillars emphasized: public impact across Ann Arbor, Flint, Dearborn, and Michigan Medicine; access via the Go Blue Guarantee. - Michigan bucket list items mentioned: running in the Arb, spinning The Cube, events at Hill Auditorium, games at Yost, and Saturdays at the Big House.

[22:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=1364s) Presentation of the Tiffany Block M Pin and Adjournment

Following a round of applause, Chair Behm presents Dr. Raver with her very first Block M pin to inaugurate her tenure. He highlights that this particular pin was specially designed by Tiffany & Co. Raver asks warmly if she is permitted to put it on right away, to which Behm happily agrees. With the ceremonial gift presented and celebrations underway for this new chapter in the university's history, Chair Behm formally adjourns the special regents' meeting.

## Notable quotes > [00:40](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=40s) The board shall, as often as necessary, elect a president of the institution under its supervision. This person shall be the principal executive officer of the institution. — Regent Michael Behm

> [04:14](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=254s) She's really fun to be around. — Regent Denise Ilitch

> [06:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=406s) This is a person that is not just a leader, but is someone that we can be proud of and proud to have as our president. — Regent Jordan Acker

> [08:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=480s) her decency and her integrity. — Regent Mark Bernstein

> [08:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=480s) She is more than ready to be a university president, and most importantly, she's ready to be our president. — Regent Mark Bernstein

> [09:44](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=584s) You are now officially all Wolverines. — Regent Michael Meyers

> [11:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=714s) critical to the success of our university. — Regent Paul Brown

> [11:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=714s) purely to support humanity and particularly the people of the state of Michigan. — Regent Paul Brown

> [13:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=805s) We make Blue go. — Board Chair Mark Behm

> [13:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=805s) the Michigan of the East — Board Chair Mark Behm

> [13:25](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q&t=805s) This young university, should we not carry it forward to perfection? — Board Chair Mark Behm

## Mentioned University of Michigan, University of Michigan Board of Regents, Domenico Grasso, Jordan Acker, Michael Behm, Mark Bernstein, Paul Brown, Sarah Hubbard, Denise Ilitch, Michael Meyers, Katherine White, Cybele Raver, Vanderbilt University, Harvard University, Yale University, Cornell University, University of Chicago, New York University, Daniel Diermeier, Jon Kinsey, Mary Gorman, Alexis Stiles, Spencer Stuart, Susan Behm, Henry Philip Tappan, University of Pennsylvania, Michigan Medicine, Nichols Arboretum, The Cube, Hill Auditorium, Yost Ice Arena, Michigan Stadium, Go Blue Guarantee, Tiffany & Co.

[Source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wqm5qekOO-Q)

中文简报

密歇根大学董事会任命范德堡大学教务长 Cybele Raver 为第17任校长管理委员会一致投票决定，任命这位发展心理学家兼科研管理主管自12月1日起领导该大学。密歇根大学董事会召开会议，正式且一致选举范德堡大学教务长 Cybele Raver 博士为该校第17任校长。董事们对临时校长 Domenico Grasso 在充满挑战的过渡期内提供的稳健领导表达了由衷的感谢，同时高度赞扬了 Raver 博士深厚的学术履历、道德操守以及协作式高层领导能力。在2026年12月1日正式履新前接受任命时，Raver 博士阐述了她以量化和善于倾听为核心的治理理念，承诺将深切投入于全部三个校区及 Michigan Medicine 的发展，并获赠了一枚 Tiffany & Co. 制作的仪式性 Block M 徽章。密歇根大学董事会一致投票选举 Cybele Raver 博士为该校第17任校长，其任期定于2026年12月1日正式开始。 (3:19) Raver 博士从范德堡大学调任密歇根大学，她曾在范德堡大学担任教务长兼负责学术事务的副校长，此前还曾在纽约大学、芝加哥大学和康奈尔大学担任学术和领导职务。 (0:40) 董事们多次赞扬临时校长 Domenico Grasso 在该校近期历史中的两次独立过渡期内提供了稳健的高层领导。 (9:44) 在致辞中，Raver 博士作为一名定量社会科学家概述了其以数据驱动的领导理念，强调积极倾听、迅速依据证据作出决策，并深入参与安娜堡、弗林特、迪尔伯恩以及 Michigan Medicine 各校区的发展。 (17:04)

Reading summary

The University of Michigan Board of Regents unanimously elected Dr. Cybele Raver as the institution's 17th president, concluding a nationwide search to lead its three campuses and medical enterprise. Regents and Raver emphasized data-driven leadership, institutional integrity, and a statewide public mission following the interim stewardship of Domenico Grasso. Constitutional Election and Transitional Stewardship (3:19) Exercising authority under Article 8, Section 5 of the Michigan Constitution, the Board of Regents convened in a special session to officially nominate and elect Dr. Cybele Raver as the university's 17th president by a unanimous vote. The regents widely credited Interim President Domenico Grasso for his steady administrative leadership during a demanding transitional period, with multiple board members noting that Grasso had answered the call to guide the university through institutional challenges twice. Academic Credentials and Leadership Scale (0:40) Dr. Raver brings a background as a developmental psychologist and senior academic administrator, having completed her undergraduate degree at Harvard University and her Ph.D. at Yale University before holding faculty roles at Cornell University, the University of Chicago, and New York University. As Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Vanderbilt University, she expanded the research enterprise, recruited faculty, and inaugurated a new college—tenure achievements Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel Diermeier described as profound. Regent Sarah Hubbard emphasized that this record prepares Raver to manage Michigan's distinct operational scale, which integrates an elite academic core, an extensive research footprint, regional campuses, and a major academic medical center. Regents on Culture, Integrity, and Representation (4:14) Board members highlighted Raver's personal character, collaborative style, and cultural fit for Michigan. Regent Denise Ilitch underscored Raver's active listening and inner strength, asking the campus community to afford the incoming president time and patience to absorb the "Michigan way," while observing that Raver turned down other prominent opportunities to accept the post. Regent Mark Bernstein cited her moral character, decency, and mission-readiness, while Regent Jordan Acker celebrated her appointment as an inspiring model of female executive leadership. Regent Paul Brown praised her creative background from a family of artists and noted her demonstrated commitment to a statewide public mission that impacts communities from the Upper Peninsula downriver. Data-Driven Leadership and Public Priorities (17:04) In her inaugural address to the board, Dr. Raver articulated a governance approach rooted in her background as a quantitative social scientist, pledging to listen across constituencies, analyze empirical evidence, and make decisive investments. She committed to maintaining active visibility across the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses, as well as Michigan Medicine, while highlighting core commitments like the Go Blue Guarantee and research addressing democracy, healthcare, security, and economic prosperity. Dr. Raver officially assumes office on December 1, 2026, inheriting the responsibility of navigating ongoing higher education pressures while advancing the university's academic, clinical, and public service missions across Michigan.

Source quotes

[0:40] Regent Michael Behm: The board shall, as often as necessary, elect a president of the institution under its supervision. This person shall be the principal executive officer of the institution. [4:14] Regent Denise Ilitch: She's really fun to be around. [6:46] Regent Jordan Acker: This is a person that is not just a leader, but is someone that we can be proud of and proud to have as our president. [8:00] Regent Mark Bernstein: her decency and her integrity. [8:00] Regent Mark Bernstein: She is more than ready to be a university president, and most importantly, she's ready to be our president. [9:44] Regent Michael Meyers: You are now officially all Wolverines. [11:54] Regent Paul Brown: critical to the success of our university. [11:54] Regent Paul Brown: purely to support humanity and particularly the people of the state of Michigan. [13:25] Board Chair Mark Behm: We make Blue go. [13:25] Board Chair Mark Behm: the Michigan of the East [13:25] Board Chair Mark Behm: This young university, should we not carry it forward to perfection?

Original transcript

[0:00] - Good morning, and welcome. [0:03] This is a special meeting of the Board of Regents [0:05] called at the request of all the board members. [0:09] I'd like to begin with a roll call. [0:11] Regent Acker. [0:13] - Present. [0:14] - Regent Behm. [0:14] - Here. [0:15] - Regent Bernstein. [0:16] - Present. [0:17] - Regent Brown. [0:18] - Here. [0:19] - Regent Hubbard. [0:20] - Here. [0:20] - Regent Ilitch. [0:21] - Here. [0:22] - Regent Meyers. [0:23] - Here. [0:24] - Regent White via Zoom. [0:27] - Here. [0:29] - I will now turn the meeting over [0:32] to Regent Michael Behm, [0:33] co-chair of the Presidential Search Committee. [0:40] - Good morning, everyone. [0:43] The Board of Regents of the University of Michigan [0:46] derives its authority [0:47] directly from the Michigan Constitution, [0:50] Article 8, Section 5. [0:52] "The board shall, as often as necessary, [0:55] elect a president of the institution under its supervision. [0:58] This person shall be the principal executive officer [1:02] of the institution." [1:04] We are pleased to have completed that process, [1:06] and today, we will formally confirm Cybele Raver [1:10] as the board's choice to lead the University of Michigan. [1:15] Provost Raver is a developmental psychologist [1:18] currently serving as provost and vice chancellor [1:20] of Academic Affairs at Vanderbilt University [1:24] and we are proud to welcome her [1:26] as the University of Michigan's next president. [1:29] She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree [1:31] from Harvard University [1:33] and a Doctor of Philosophy degree [1:35] in Developmental Psychology from Yale University. [1:38] Her academic career began at Cornell University. [1:42] She also held faculty appointments [1:44] at the University of Chicago and New York University [1:48] before coming to Vanderbilt. [1:50] An instrumental leader at Vanderbilt, [1:52] she helped grow the research enterprise, recruit top talent, [1:56] and expand the university network [1:58] with new locations around the country [2:01] and the new college on their campus in Nashville. [2:05] Vanderbilt Chancellor Diermeier described her impact [2:08] during her tenure there as profound. [2:12] Her national reputation for excellence, [2:14] her transformational accomplishments, [2:16] and her collaborative approach will benefit us all together [2:24] as we face numerous challenges and opportunities ahead. [2:28] I would like to take a moment [2:29] to thank my colleagues on the Board of Regents, [2:32] the members of our Presidential Search Advisory Committee, [2:36] and a special thank you [2:37] to Vice President and Secretary Jon Kinsey and his team, [2:41] and Mary Gorman and Alexis Stiles from Spencer Stuart, [2:46] all of whom were indispensable in our search process. [2:51] I would also like to thank our students, [2:52] faculty, staff, alumni, [2:55] and supporters who continually remind us all why we are here [3:00] and why this is the best job in higher education. [3:03] And now, it is my great honor to support the election [3:07] of Cybele Raver to serve as president [3:09] of the University of Michigan. [3:12] Regent Bernstein, co-chair [3:14] of the Presidential Search Committee [3:16] will now read the resolution. [3:19] - Thank you, Mike. [3:21] On behalf of the Board of Regents [3:22] and pursuant to Article 8, Section 5 [3:24] of the Michigan Constitution [3:26] and in accordance with the terms and conditions [3:27] of a certain letter of agreement [3:29] that has been previously agreed upon, [3:31] with its effectiveness being subject to approval [3:33] and ratification at this meeting, [3:35] I present the finalist and hereby nominate Cybele Raver [3:38] as the 17th president of the University of Michigan. [3:41] The letter of agreement will be attached [3:42] to the minutes of this meeting. [3:45] - Is there a second? [3:48] - Second. [3:49] - All those in favor? [3:51] - Aye. - Aye. [3:52] - Aye. [3:55] - The motion carries unanimously. [4:14] I know the regents have some comments [4:17] and we will begin with Regent Ilitch. [4:21] - Thank you. [4:23] Good morning. I'm so excited. [4:24] I'm beyond excited to be here. [4:26] I wanted to high five you when that happened, [4:29] but I know we have to have some decorum this morning. [4:32] I just wanna make a few remarks about our search process, [4:36] which was phenomenal. [4:39] Our new president is a very trusted individual [4:43] and will continue to build trust in our community. [4:47] She is a strong listener. [4:49] She wants to hear everybody's viewpoints, [4:53] and that will be a key, I think, to her success. [4:56] She's well-rounded. [4:58] She's a team builder. [4:59] One of my most favorite qualities of hers [5:02] is that she's a collaborator [5:05] and she gets everyone talking to everyone. [5:07] And since we're such a large community, [5:10] it's really going to be a gift [5:13] and a skill to keep us unified in our same goals. [5:18] She's a collaborator. [5:20] She finds how to solve problems by collaborating. [5:26] She's an excellent scholar. [5:27] That goes without saying. [5:29] One of my other favorite things about her [5:31] is her strong inner strength, [5:34] and we all need that as Michigan personnel. [5:40] She's a change agent too, [5:42] and so she's gonna be very good at keeping up [5:45] with what's going on in our world [5:47] and adapting when it's appropriate. [5:50] So I really want to encourage the Michigan community [5:55] to give her a warm welcome, [5:58] let her have a honeymoon, [6:01] and just to give her time [6:05] and patience to learn our community, [6:07] to learn the traditions of our community, [6:10] and to learn the Michigan way. [6:13] Her goal is that she wants to make an impact [6:18] and change the world, [6:20] and that's what we do here at Michigan. [6:21] We change the world and we train leaders, [6:24] and that is her ultimate goal. [6:27] She passed up other opportunities to be the president [6:30] of the University of Michigan. [6:33] And one added bonus: She's really fun to be around. [6:37] So you all are gonna love that. [6:39] So welcome. We are ecstatic that you're here. [6:42] - Thank you so much. [6:43] - Of course. [6:44] - Thank you, Regent Ilitch. [6:46] Regent Acker. [6:47] - Thank you. [6:49] I like to go after Regent Ilitch [6:51] because I can start by saying I agree [6:52] with everything that she said. [6:55] But I wanna say, first of all, [6:56] thank you to my colleagues for this process [7:00] and for finding... [7:02] We've helped find a candidate [7:03] that was in a really talented pool and rose to the top [7:08] because of all the strengths that Denise talked about. [7:12] You know, the thing I just want to add, [7:14] and I think this is something I thought about a lot [7:16] during this process was, [7:19] in a world where we have lots of leaders, [7:21] some better than others, [7:22] it's so important to have role models [7:24] and people who are great, especially great female leaders. [7:28] And I think about for my own daughters, [7:30] and I see Cybele and I say, [7:31] "This is a person that is not just a leader, [7:35] but is someone that we can be proud of [7:37] and proud to have as our president." [7:40] And so I just wanted to say thank you to the community [7:43] who, if you haven't met her yet, she is fun. [7:48] (Cybele laughs) [7:49] And she's going to be someone that we can be most proud of [7:53] as our leader as long as we can have her. [7:56] So thank you so much and welcome and go blue. [7:59] - Thank you, Regent Acker. [8:00] Regent Bernstein. [8:01] - Thank you. [8:03] So this is obviously the first week of class, [8:07] and as I walked campus this morning [8:09] on the way to this special meeting, [8:11] I was reminded, as I'm sure many of us were, [8:14] why there's really no better place to be [8:16] than on a college campus and on this one in the fall. [8:20] All around us, our mission is never more visible [8:24] as we see our students beginning their journey here. [8:27] It is indeed a moment of transformation for our students, [8:31] and that is why it is so fitting [8:33] that this meeting marks a moment of transformation [8:35] for our university. [8:37] Today, I'm so very proud to elect Dr. Cybele Raver [8:41] to serve as our next president [8:42] because she understands how a great university changes lives [8:47] and impacts our society. [8:50] All of us on the board during this process were struck [8:54] by her clear vision and sense of purpose, [8:56] her success as a leader in higher education, [8:59] her appreciation for the unique challenges [9:01] and opportunities at Michigan, [9:03] and I would say, of equal and maybe greatest importance, [9:07] her decency and her integrity. [9:10] Dr. Raver's journey has led her here to this very moment. [9:15] She is more than ready to be a university president, [9:18] and most importantly, she's ready to be our president. [9:23] As you get to know her, [9:24] you'll understand why we feel so strongly [9:27] that she belongs here [9:29] at the University of Michigan right now. [9:33] Cybele, I'm proud to be among the very first [9:35] to greet you warmly, enthusiastically, [9:37] and gratefully to the University of Michigan. [9:43] - Thank you, Regent Bernstein. [9:44] Regent Hubbard. [9:46] - Thank you, President Grasso. [9:47] And I wanna thank you, President Grasso, [9:49] for all your support of the university at a time [9:52] when we really needed you, [9:53] and I appreciate the leadership you've given us [9:56] and everything you've done for us, [9:58] and we look forward to closing that out [10:00] over the next several weeks and months. [10:03] But further, I'd say to Dr. Cybele Raver, [10:07] she really understands the scale [10:08] and complexity of a university like ours, [10:11] one with a world-class academic core, [10:13] major research enterprise, academic medical center, [10:17] and a public mission that extends well beyond Ann Arbor. [10:21] Her background in developmental science, [10:23] her experience at NYU, Cornell, Chicago, before Vanderbilt, [10:27] all of that has demonstrated her ability [10:29] to build strong teams [10:31] and gives me real confidence in her ability [10:35] to lead Michigan through this moment. [10:38] It's a pivotal time for our university. [10:40] We need a president who can unite our campus community, [10:42] strengthen our research standing, [10:44] and protect what makes Michigan [10:45] the best public university in the country. [10:47] And I am delighted and thrilled [10:49] to help elect Dr. Raver to be our next president. [10:53] Welcome. [10:54] - Thank you, Regent Hubbard. [10:56] Regent Meyers. [10:58] - Thank you, Domenico. [10:59] I'd like to start by thanking you for your service. [11:03] Not once, but twice that we've asked you to step up [11:06] and usher us from one moment to the next. [11:09] And as we gather here today at this moment, right now, [11:13] as we welcome Dr. Raver, Cybele, [11:17] and now Madam President, [11:19] as our 17th president of the University of Michigan, [11:23] this has only happened 17 times, [11:25] so all of you in the audience know [11:26] that this is a special moment, [11:29] and this is a special moment for the University of Michigan. [11:32] This is a transformative moment. [11:34] We have the right leader for this moment to move us forward. [11:38] Cybele, I'd like to welcome you to the Michigan family, [11:41] and as well, I'd like to welcome Cybele's family [11:44] to the Michigan family as well. [11:46] You are now officially all Wolverines. Thank you. [11:49] (members laughing) [11:50] - Thank you, Regent Meyers. [11:53] Regent Brown. [11:54] - Thank you, President Grasso. [11:56] Last but least. [11:59] First, to President Grasso, [12:00] you ascended to the presidency of the University of Michigan [12:04] during a very, very difficult time [12:06] and through some very difficult challenges, [12:08] and I just want to thank you for myself, my family, [12:11] and every staff, alumni, and student. [12:15] It has been critical to the success of our university, [12:17] and we can't be more grateful to you. [12:19] Thank you. [12:20] To Cybele, first, your family, [12:22] thank you so much for having raised such an amazing daughter [12:27] in a house of artists. [12:29] I think that is an important aspect of your background, [12:32] which we'll all be able to benefit from. [12:36] I grew up in Northern Michigan, [12:37] a long way from the Ann Arbor campus, [12:40] but I can tell you the passion [12:42] and the importance of University of Michigan [12:45] is just as important in the UP as it is in downriver. [12:49] And when we did one of our interviews up in my hometown, [12:53] it was particularly poignant for me, [12:56] and I could see the difference [12:57] in the focus you're going to have [13:00] to do what I think is the role of this university, [13:03] which is purely to support humanity [13:07] and particularly the people of the state of Michigan, [13:09] and you understand that responsibility. [13:11] As Regent Bernstein mentioned, [13:12] we had an amazing group of qualified candidates, [13:16] but it was obvious you were the brightest and the best, [13:19] and you'll continue to make this university the leaders [13:23] and the best, [13:23] so thank you. [13:25] - Thank you, Regent Brown. [13:34] It is an honor to welcome Dr. Cybele Raver [13:38] as the University of Michigan's next president. [13:41] I also want to welcome her mother, Tina, [13:44] her stepfather, Chris, and her sister, Kim. [13:47] This is a special day for your family [13:50] and for the Michigan family. [13:52] Cybele, you will soon be leading what I never hesitate [13:56] to call the greatest university in the world, [13:59] always in the public interest. [14:02] Our faculty are exceptional, [14:05] as educators, researchers, clinicians, innovators, [14:09] and public servants. [14:11] It's a privilege to interact with them every day. [14:16] Our students are creative, bright, [14:19] energetic, and opinionated. [14:22] Michigan has many traditions, [14:25] including students who engage deeply with their campus. [14:28] I have experienced that in the best way [14:31] with our student leaders. [14:34] Michigan staff are the backbone of the institution. [14:38] They often say, "We make Blue go," and that is true. [14:43] We could not operate at the exceptional level we do [14:47] without their expertise and skills. [14:50] Michigan alumni, including my wife, Susan, and me, [14:55] are loyal to the point of fierceness. [14:58] We love our alma mater and always want it to succeed. [15:04] This profound and universal commitment to excellence [15:07] is why there is such enthusiasm for your appointment [15:12] as the next president. [15:14] Leadership and excellence are part of Michigan's DNA. [15:20] Being president of the University of Michigan [15:22] is both the best job in higher education [15:25] and the most challenging. [15:27] The spotlight on Michigan always burns bright [15:31] because society looks to us [15:33] for answers, cures, and leadership. [15:37] When the search began, we were looking for the very best, [15:41] and we found her in Cybele. [15:44] She has impressive accomplishments as a scholar [15:46] and an academic leader, [15:48] and as an alum of what JFK called the Michigan of the East. [15:52] (members laughing) [15:55] Please know that the Michigan community [16:00] across all three campuses and beyond is here to support [16:03] and cheer for you and in months and years ahead. [16:07] I want to thank the faculty, staff, students, [16:11] and alumni who served on the Presidential Search Committee. [16:14] Your service has helped shape the university's future. [16:20] So Cybele, as you prepare to become the 17th president, [16:24] I encourage you to consider the motivating words [16:26] of our first president, Dr. Henry Phillip Tappan. [16:31] "This young university," he said, [16:36] "Should we not carry it forward to perfection?" [16:40] This is the conviction of the leaders in best. [16:44] Congratulations and forever go Blue! [16:48] I'll now invite Dr. Raver to the podium. [16:51] - Thank you, sir. [17:04] Thank you so much, Chair Behm, [17:06] members of the Board of Regents, President Grasso. [17:11] I am deeply, deeply grateful for this opportunity [17:14] to serve as the 17th president [17:16] of the University of Michigan. [17:19] It's an extraordinary honor, [17:20] and I am so thrilled to join this community. [17:24] I thank President Grasso for his dedication [17:26] and his leadership over these past years, [17:28] not once but twice. [17:30] I'm also grateful [17:31] for the incredibly warm welcome shown to me [17:33] by the regents and the board secretary. [17:35] Thank you to my colleagues, my friends, [17:37] and students at Vanderbilt University [17:39] who'd made my time there so meaningful. [17:42] Lastly, I thank my family, [17:43] including my stepfather who's from Flint [17:46] and a University of Michigan alum. [17:48] I'm so grateful to each of them [17:50] and to my daughter, Natalie, who couldn't be here today [17:52] because she just started her own graduate program at Penn, [17:55] for their love and unwavering support [17:57] through every step of this journey. [18:00] This journey has led me to this incredible moment today. [18:05] So why does this moment mean so much? [18:08] To paraphrase so many [18:09] of Michigan's renowned alumni and leaders, [18:11] Michigan truly represents greatness [18:13] in every sense of the word. [18:15] This university is a research powerhouse [18:18] with deeply held public mission. [18:21] Michigan attracts the most talented [18:22] and energetic students from around the world and the nation. [18:27] And it demonstrates a profound commitment [18:29] through opportunity provided by the Go Blue Guarantee. [18:34] You have truly a wonderful way [18:36] of building a lifelong sense of community [18:38] while also channeling a fierce pride in winning, [18:41] and I just love that about this university. [18:44] Across Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint, and Michigan Medicine, [18:46] this university's faculty, students, [18:48] and staff are doing such incredibly important work [18:51] that changes lives. [18:52] Michigan is a powerful engine of discovery, [18:57] and that's across areas of security, democracy, healthcare, [19:00] and the nation's economic prosperity, [19:03] not just for Michigan, [19:05] but also for the nation and the world. [19:09] That is truly why this moment means so much to me. [19:12] Throughout my career, I've been profoundly inspired [19:14] by the impact that universities can have, [19:17] bringing talented people together across disciplines [19:20] and supporting them to pursue bold ideas. [19:23] Michigan does this better than many other universities [19:26] that I could name, [19:27] and it's truly at such a remarkable scale. [19:31] My vision is for us to build [19:34] on that vision, mission, and those values. [19:37] We have the opportunity to make clear to the world [19:40] all that Michigan can offer to this great state [19:43] and to our nation [19:44] through education, patient care, and discovery. [19:48] I know I can count on you to join us in that mission. [19:52] I am just beginning to understand the vast reach [19:55] and the deep dedication of the Michigan community. [19:59] I've already begun wearing my baseball hat with a big M [20:02] as I walk through airports in the last few weeks, [20:05] and so many people have given me a huge smile [20:08] and said, "Go Blue." [20:11] I'm incredibly proud to be welcomed into this community [20:13] as your newest Wolverine. [20:16] And what should you expect from me? [20:19] One thing you should know about me [20:21] as this quantitative social scientist [20:23] is that I love to understand and solve complex problems [20:27] by listening carefully. [20:28] As Regent Ilitch suggested, [20:31] that is one of the key features of my DNA. [20:34] I look forward to learning about your perspectives, [20:37] your viewpoints across our faculty, our students, our staff, [20:41] our alumni, and our Michigan community. [20:45] You can also expect me to take swift and decisive action [20:48] after weighing your input and the evidence. [20:51] I've carried that style of decision-making from my life [20:53] as a researcher to my career as a university leader. [20:58] Equally importantly, I lead by investing in people [21:01] and ideas that undergird the university's greatness. [21:04] I can't wait to bring that style of leadership, [21:06] that dedication, and that commitment to Michigan. [21:11] Most of all, you can expect me to be all in [21:14] for all things Michigan, [21:16] both in the first months of my presidency [21:18] and for the long haul. [21:20] As my friends and family will tell you, [21:22] I'm the kind of person [21:23] who loves to be everywhere all the time. [21:26] You will see me around campus, [21:28] at performances and events, [21:29] talking with students, faculty and staff, [21:31] and of course, on Saturdays at the Big House. [21:34] I also have a growing Michigan to-do list: [21:36] running through the Arbs, spinning The Cube, [21:39] attending concerts at Hill Auditorium, [21:41] a hockey game at Yost, basketball, softball, [21:44] and learning to sing what I understand [21:46] is objectively the best fight song in college sports. [21:51] I'm always looking for additions to that list, [21:53] so if there's something I'm missing, please let me know. [21:56] I'm also happy to take a few questions [21:58] after we formally adjourn. [22:00] Please know that I'm not likely to have all the answers yet. [22:03] I don't officially start until December 1st, [22:06] and I have a lot of listening [22:07] and learning to do ahead of me. [22:10] In sum, I can't wait to experience it all, [22:14] to see what we can accomplish together, [22:16] and to continue to discover [22:17] all that makes Michigan truly great. [22:21] Go Blue! [22:44] - So Cybele, I'd like to present to you the first [22:48] of many Block M pins [22:50] that you will be wearing on your clothes, [22:54] but this was specially designed by Tiffany & Co. [22:57] - That was special. [22:57] - Congratulations. [22:58] - And I can put it on today? [22:59] - You can put it on today, yes. [23:02] So thank you all for being here for the auspicious day [23:07] as we celebrate the next chapter [23:10] in Michigan's glorious history of impact and service. [23:15] This meeting is adjourned.