MSU Board of Trustees signals extending president's contract, strengthens governance

The Michigan State University Board of Trustees voted May 17 in support of presenting a new contract to President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., and amended its Code of Ethics and Conduct to further underscore its commitment to growth and stability at MSU.

“We hear every day from faculty and staff, alumni and students whose confidence in MSU has increased because of their engagement with President Guskiewicz,” said Chair Brianna Scott. “His ‘One Team’ philosophy and its impact on MSU’s culture, people and presence in our state cannot be overstated. We value his leadership and look forward to his continued partnership for years to come.”

The board approved elements of an amended contract, including a $2 million base salary and term extension to 2031, consistent with leadership positions across higher education and as a statement of the board’s confidence in Guskiewicz’s leadership. A majority of the board also voted to authorize Scott as board chair and Trustee Sandy Pierce as chair of the Budget and Finance Committee to finalize terms and execute the amended contract.

During the Sunday evening virtual meeting, the board also amended its Code of Ethics and Conduct consistent with best practices across governing boards and in line with findings and recommendations from the Association of Governing Boards, or AGB.

“The board has been engaged in ongoing conversations around how to improve governance and install a code of conduct that establishes standards beyond our individual service to the institution,” said Scott. “We know that strong governance practices help ensure decisions are made responsibly, ethically and in the best interests of the university and the communities we serve. These changes support our fiduciary responsibility, reinforce our oversight role and demonstrate to people we are serious about earning and maintaining their trust and confidence.”

The previous Code of Ethics and Conduct had not been updated since 2020. The newly adopted version includes guidance and standards reflected in the governance policies of similar entities. Specifically, the amended code:

• Incorporates elements of the governance commitments that were approved by the board in December 2023.

• Aligns with provisions in BOT 103: Board of Trustees – Conflict of Interest and BOT 403: Indemnification.

• Codifies a requirement for each board member to sign the Code of Ethics and Conduct annually by Jan. 15 and within seven calendar days of the code being revised.

“Public entities function best when there is trust, respect for the process and a shared commitment to factual and informed decision-making,” Scott said. “The revisions clarify expectations around conduct, confidentiality, fiduciary responsibility and respectful engagement.”

Like its policies, the Board of Trustees is responsible for its oversight and enforcement and is the sole entity for determining if a violation has occurred. More information regarding policies is available on the Board of Trustees website.

The next regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting will be held June 12.