(As prepared for delivery) I want to begin by thanking Chancellor Gabriella Scarlatta and the UM-Dearborn community for hosting us today. It’s always a pleasure to return to the Dearborn campus. It’s an even greater pleasure to recommend to the Board that the word “interim” be removed from Chancellor Scarlatta’s title, and that she be …

Dear Colleagues, At the University of Michigan, our culture of excellence and integrity is the foundation of everything we do. I want to personally thank you for your continued dedication to upholding these values and for the pivotal part you play in shaping our community. It is through your example and steadfast commitment that we …

Updated May 3, 2026 At today’s U-M spring commencement ceremony, our outgoing Faculty Senate Chair made remarks regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict that were hurtful and insensitive to many members of our community. We regret the pain this has caused on a day devoted to celebration and accomplishment. For this, the university apologizes. The Faculty Senate …

(As prepared for delivery) Good morning, Class of 2026! You all look amazing! As a kid, I dreamed of ending up in the Michigan end zone with thousands of people cheering. This … is not quite how I pictured it. But I’m told being university president at commencement is a close second. This morning, of …

(As prepared for delivery) Congratulations to the Class of 2026! Earning a graduate degree from the University of Michigan is a remarkable achievement – one you accomplished with the help of many others. Let’s all applaud our graduates, their families and friends, and the faculty who mentored and supported them. I look forward to our …

Dear Colleagues and Students, This is a difficult day for the University of Michigan community. The heartbreaking news that President-elect Kent Syverud is unable to assume the presidency is deeply upsetting, particularly given the seriousness of his medical diagnosis.  Please join Susan and me in keeping Kent and his family – his wife, Dr. Ruth …

Message from President-elect Syverud Dear University of Michigan Community, I know this is one of the most vibrant and demanding times of the academic year — with final exams, end-of-semester celebrations, and the excitement of commencement just around the corner. I am also aware many of you are currently working on leadership transition plans. I am …

(As prepared for delivery) Good afternoon. I’m Domenico Grasso, president of the University of Michigan, and it’s my honor to open this preview of our new Center for American Dialogue. I want to welcome everyone here in the theater and those joining us online. We appreciate you being part of this special day in the …

(As prepared for delivery) Good afternoon. Thank you, Professor Verhoogt, for your thoughtful remarks. I want to join in congratulating our distinguished students and Thurnau Professors. Today is a powerful display of the academic excellence that defines Michigan. There is one more distinguished group in the auditorium that merits congratulations: the families and friends of …

Chairman Walberg, Ranking Member Scott, and members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today about research security at the University of Michigan. My name is Domenico Grasso, and I have had the privilege and honor of serving as the President of the University of Michigan since May 2025. My …