Trustee Sandy Pierce argued the pay increase was needed to retain President Kevin Guskiewicz amid interest from other universities, while at least two other trustees voiced concerns about funding sources and the rushed process, with Rema Vassar abstaining and Mike Balow voting against.

Guskiewicz’s total compensation in 2024 stood at just over $1 million, and the policy changes under discussion align with broader concerns about governance and transparency raised during the meeting.

Board Chair Brianna Scott highlighted Guskiewicz’s frustration with certain trustees and stressed the board’s intent to act decisively to keep him, citing his accomplishments since he became MSU president in March 2024.

The proposed compensation changes were framed in the context of Michigan public university presidents and compared with peers, suggesting alignment with market norms despite broader budget pressures.

MSU spokesperson said Guskiewicz was traveling and unavailable for comment at the time of the announcement.

The salary move depends on finalizing an amended contract and could make Guskiewicz one of the highest-paid public university presidents in the nation.

Guskiewicz said he was unaware of the proposed changes and had not signed a new contract at the time of the meeting.

The plan sought outside funding to cover more than $1 million in annual compensation beyond the general fund, pending board approval and external funding.

In a separate action, the board approved a dramatic salary increase for Guskiewicz, nearly doubling the base pay to $2 million and raising the annual unvested employer award to $250,000, with the contract extended to 2031.

The special meeting also approved the contract adjustment and compensation package for Guskiewicz, including the increased annual award and extended contract term.

Overall, the board’s actions culminated in a more than $1 million raise for the president, moving his total compensation to about $2 million annually plus enhanced deferred components.

MSU’s Board of Trustees approved changes to the ethics and conduct code in a 5-3 vote, capping trustees’ speech and requiring a signed acknowledgment by May 24 with sanctions for non-compliance.