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President-Elect Guskiewicz Stays at MSU, Kentucky Owes $5 Million

7/7/2026

Summary

Guskiewicz Stays

President-elect Kevin Guskiewicz announced he will stay at Michigan State University, ending his planned move to Clemson.
MSU and Clemson confirmed decision, with a contract paying about $1 million per year, below $2 million salary offered in May.
Because the buyout clause never triggered, the University of Kentucky owes MSU $5 million rather than $2.5 million.
Greg and Dawn Williams donated $401 million to MSU, while the university plans to appoint an athletic director soon.

Summary

Guskiewicz Remains

Clemson announced on Monday, 7/6/26, that it removed Kevin Guskiewicz’s name from its website and will restart search after his decision to stay at Michigan State University.
A “We Heart Kevin G” campaign spread across Michigan State University (MSU) campus in June, with signs and a website for community messages.
The Clemson Board of Trustees must re-evaluate the appointment timeline and select a long-term candidate who can secure support.

History

Historical Context

After Mack Brown led Texas to a 13-0, 2005 national championship, the university raised his pay to $5.1 million in 2009 and embedded a large buyout funded by athletic revenues, sparking campus debate over donor-driven spending. That precedent now echoes at Michigan State, where comparable buyout pressures and a major donation force athletic boards to reassess hiring finances.

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Guskiewicz Stays

President-elect Kevin Guskiewicz announced he will stay at Michigan State University, ending his planned move to Clemson.
MSU and Clemson confirmed decision, with a contract paying about $1 million per year, below $2 million salary offered in May.
Because the buyout clause never triggered, the University of Kentucky owes MSU $5 million rather than $2.5 million.
Greg and Dawn Williams donated $401 million to MSU, while the university plans to appoint an athletic director soon.

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