Sandy Pierce brings decades of finance experience leading major institutions and other boards 

Lansing, MI — On Dec 27th, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointment of Sandy Pierce to the Michigan State University Board of Trustees. 

“The students, staff, faculty, and alumni of Michigan State University deserve leadership who will put them first and do the right thing no matter what,” said Governor Whitmer. “Sandy is the right person for the job because she leads with her values and has decades of experience to back it up. She is a trusted professional and a tested, proven leader. I know Sandy will be an asset to Michigan State and work hard to ensure the continued success and growth of the university. Go green!” 

The Whitmer Administration met with students, alumni, and faculty from Michigan State University prior to making the appointment. 

Pierce is the senior executive vice president of Huntington National Bank. Previously, she was named vice chairman of FirstMerit Corporation and has held senior roles at RBS Citizens and JPMorgan Chase. She has held many board roles including chair of the Henry Ford Health System Board. Pierce has previously held an appointment by Governor Rick Snyder. She has been recognized for her multi-talented work in Crain’s Detroit Business, Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion, and Harvard Business School. In 2018, she was awarded Michigan State University’s Honorary Alumni Award. Pierce earned her Bachelor and Master of Business Administration at Wayne State University.   

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and alumni at MSU and am eager to work with my partners on the Board of Trustees,” said Sandy Pierce. “I’ve dedicated my career to economic development in the state of Michigan and its world class institutions. This is a wonderful opportunity for me to continue to help advance the school’s mission and provide relevant guidance on its strategic goals and objectives. Access to a good education is the bedrock of our success and is a part of securing the future for this great state. I know Governor Whitmer shares my passion around this, and I am honored to work together to further the vision for this wonderful institution.” 

Pierce is appointed for a term commencing December 27, 2022, and expiring January 1, 2029. She succeeds Pat O’Keefe who resigned in November of this year. This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.