Full Breakdown
Michigan State Community Launches “We Heart Kevin” Campaign as President Kevin Guskiewicz Departs for Clemson
6/9/2026, 7:24:06 AM
Campaign to Thank Outgoing President Kevin Guskiewicz
Alumni, students, staff and local business leaders launched the “We Heart Kevin” campaign on June 8, 2026 to publicly thank Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz before his move to Clemson University. Organizers posted printable signs, painted the MSU rock and arranged a low-altitude plane to fly a banner over campus.
Background: Board Conflict and Leadership Turnover
Guskiewicz announced his resignation in a May 27 letter, citing “unsustainable” board actions that he said publicly undermined decisions and placed personal interests above the university’s mission. His departure marks the sixth president in six years and only the second permanent leader since former President Lou Anna Simon left after the Larry Nassar scandal in 2018, underscoring ongoing governance challenges at MSU.
Timeline
- March 2024 – Guskiewicz became MSU president.
- May 27, 2026 – He submitted his resignation letter.
- June 8, 2026 – The “We Heart Kevin” campaign launched, featuring rock painting and a banner flight.
The university has seen six presidents in as many years, reflecting rapid leadership turnover.
Official Statements & Responses
Guskiewicz’s letter stressed that while diverse viewpoints are valuable, the board’s persistent public undermining created an unsustainable situation that forced his exit. Campaign organizer Pat Gillespie described the effort as a “positive send-off” and clarified it was not meant to persuade Guskiewicz to stay. Clemson officials noted that a start date for Guskiewicz has not yet been set.
Impact on Campus Community
The thank-you campaign has been described by participants as a morale-boosting gesture that counters the uncertainty generated by frequent leadership changes. By publicly celebrating Guskiewicz’s achievements, the initiative aims to reinforce a sense of unity among students, alumni, faculty and local businesses, and to signal continued support for the university’s mission despite governance challenges.
Criticism & Opposition
Some comments on the campaign’s website urged Guskiewicz to reverse his decision and remain at MSU. Gillespie responded that the initiative’s sole purpose was to express gratitude, not to influence his career move.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is about trying to send off Guskiewicz on a good note,” — Pat Gillespie, President, Gillespie Group
- “I had such a hollow feeling in my stomach when I heard the news he was leaving,” — Pat Gillespie
- “The ongoing and continuous nature of the aforementioned actions has created an unsustainable situation.” — Kevin Guskiewicz, Letter to MSU Community, May 27 2026
- “We wish it would've worked out, he was a great fit," Gillespie said.” — Pat Gillespie
What’s Next
The MSU Board of Trustees will begin a search for a new president while Guskiewicz prepares for his Clemson role. The campaign’s online archive will stay open for additional messages, and the university community will watch how board dynamics affect future governance.
