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Detroit Regional Chamber > Chamber > Detroit Regional Chamber Congratulates Wayne State University on the Election of New President Richard Bierschbach

Detroit Regional Chamber Congratulates Wayne State University on the Election of New President Richard Bierschbach

February 24, 2026

This week, Wayne State University’s Board of Governors voted to appoint Richard Bierschbach as the university’s next president. He has been serving as interim president since last fall. 

The Detroit Regional Chamber is pleased that another one of Michigan’s R1 universities is moving forward with strong leadership. The Chamber looks forward to continuing its work with Wayne State University under Bierschbach’s leadership. 

Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Sandy K. Baruah shared the following statement on Bierschbach’s appointment:

Richard Bierschbach headshot

“I am delighted with the Board of Governors’ appointment and approval of Richard Bierschbach as Wayne State University’s new president. Continuity and stability are key attributes needed at this critical moment in Michigan’s higher education system. Additionally, and importantly, Richard is not just fully committed, but fully engaged, in the work Wayne State has led in dramatically improving student performance and outcomes, as well as the work led by the Chamber to accelerate the innovation economy in the Detroit Region.”

– Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer, Detroit Regional Chamber

Learn more about Bierschbach’s Appointment