Russ Kavalhuna, J.D. became the 10th president of Western Michigan University July 1, 2025, bringing with him a distinguished record of public service, higher education leadership and a results-driven approach to student success.
Reflecting deep commitments to advocacy, accountability and collaboration, President Kavalhuna’s career spans aviation, law and education. A former commercial airline captain, collegiate aviation administrator and federal prosecutor, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to mission-driven leadership. At the end of June, he concluded a seven-year tenure as president of Henry Ford College, where he cultivated public and private partnerships, expanded college access and strengthened mentorship opportunities for students—efforts that underpin his educational leadership record.
Before leading Henry Ford College, WMU President Kavalhuna served as executive director of flight operations at the Western Michigan University College of Aviation, ranked among the top six aviation programs in the world.
Broadly recognized for his thought leadership, he is frequently sought out at both the state and national levels to contribute to policy efforts in higher education and workforce development. In addition to co-chairing a Growing Michigan Together Council Workgroup, he has served governors of both major parties on boards focused on education, labor and aviation. He currently serves on the Michigan Workforce Development Board, the Michigan Aeronautics Commission and is a member of the Chicago-based Joyce Foundation Board of Directors.
President Kavalhuna’s principled leadership in aviation, law and academia additionally earned him a selection in 2016 by U.S. Presidents William J. Clinton and George W. Bush into the second class of their Presidential Leadership Scholars program—a program that continues to this day—enhancing his personal and professional leadership through interactions with former presidents, key administration officials, leading academics, and business and civic leaders.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science from WMU and a Juris Doctor from Cooley Law School.