Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today appointed Sandra Pierce to the Michigan State University Board of Trustees. According to the news release from Gov. Whitmer's office, Pierce is the senior executive vice president of Huntington National Bank. Previously, she was named vice chair of FirstMerit Corporation and has held senior roles at RBS Citizens and JPMorgan Chase. She has held many board roles. In 2018, she was awarded Michigan State University’s Honorary Alumni Award.

Following the announcement, Board Chair Dianne Byrum and Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D., released the following statements: 

"I look forward to working with our newest trustee, Sandra Pierce, and all members of the board as we continue to move our institution forward through building trust, affirming transparency and fostering a sense of belonging for all Spartans. Sandra's keen understanding of board governance, complex organizations and fiscal responsibility are a strong asset to our institution. She is a remarkable leader and a champion for Michigan State University, devoted to the success and growth of all Spartans."

- Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D.

"I appreciate the governor’s quick action in filling the vacant seat on the MSU Board of Trustees and am excited to welcome Sandra to the board. Sandra’s instinctual leadership abilities, budget and finance experience and board governance will be important as we continue to move this great university forward."

- Board of Trustees Chair Dianne Byrum