EMU Today

LANSING – Gov. Rick Snyder has announced the appointment of Richard Baird of Bath and the reappointment of Michael Hawks of Okemos to the Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents.

The eight-member board is the governing body of the University.

Baird is a senior advisor and transformation manager for Gov. Snyder and currently is treasurer for the Michigan Education Excellence Foundation and serves on the board for the American Center for Mobility. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history, religion, and economics from Albion College and honorary doctorates from Albion College and Eastern Michigan University.

Baird replaces Regent Michael Morris, whose eight-year term ends Dec. 31, 2018.

Hawks, who was initially appointed to the Board in 2011 for a term to expire Dec. 31, 2018, has a deep history with Ypsilanti and Eastern. He attended Ypsilanti High School and was a starting nose guard on the football team while earning a bachelor’s degree in business management from Eastern. He is an owner and officer of Governmental Consultant Services, Inc. (GCSI) and previously served as a legislative analyst for the communications office of the Michigan House of Representatives and as chief of staff for the Michigan Speaker of the House in 1989.

“I am pleased to hear of the appointment of Richard Baird and the reappointment of Michael Hawks to our Board of Regents," said Eastern President James Smith. "They bring an impressive skill set and varied perspectives to the board – including a broad understanding of state government and higher education. I look forward to continue working with Mike and now Rich in crafting a strong and student-focused future at Eastern.

“I also want to extend the University's heartfelt congratulations to Regent Mike Morris, who has served with great distinction during two separate and eventful terms on the Board, including serving as the Board's chair.”

Morris, who is the former chairman and chief executive officer of American Electric Power (AEP), also served as an EMU Regent from 1997-2004. He graduated from Eastern with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology. In 1995, he received the university's Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Hawks and Baird will serve eight-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2026. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 19,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Health and Human Services; Technology, and its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.