Overview
- The EMU Board of Regents voted Dec. 10 to name Kelly president after a nationwide search that included regents, students and faculty.
- Kelly is slated to assume the role in 2026, with CBS reporting a May 4 start under a five-year, $520,000 contract, while other outlets cite a March 1 campus arrival and June start of official duties.
- Arkansas State University System officials said Kelly’s resignation as system president takes effect Feb. 12, 2026, and they will plan an interim transition.
- A Flint native and two-time EMU graduate, Kelly previously led the University of West Georgia and held senior roles at the University of South Carolina and the University of West Florida.
- He will succeed James Smith, who announced he would finish his second term on June 30, 2026.