Wayne State University has outlined the compensation for its new interim president, Richard Bierschbach, who will receive a total annual salary of $769,000. Bierschbach, the current dean of the university's Law School, steps into the role following the recent resignation of the former president.
Key Takeaways
- Richard Bierschbach's total compensation is set at $769,000, combining his dean salary with a $200,000 supplement.
- His interim contract runs from September 17, 2024, to June 30, 2026.
- The appointment follows the departure of former President Kimberly Andrews Espy amid friction with the board and faculty.
- Bierschbach will not perform his law school dean duties during his term and is expected to return to that role afterward.
Compensation and Contract Details
Wayne State University released the contract addendum for Richard Bierschbach, detailing his financial package as interim president. His existing salary as the Law School Dean is $569,000. For his new responsibilities, he will receive an additional $200,000, bringing his total annual compensation to $769,000.
This figure is slightly higher than the lump-sum payment provided to the previous president, Kimberly Andrews Espy, upon her departure. Espy received $760,449, which was roughly equivalent to her annual salary.
Financial Breakdown
- Base Dean Salary: $569,000
- Interim President Supplement: $200,000
- Total Annual Compensation: $769,000
- Potential Completion Bonus: $25,000
Contract Term and Bonus
The interim agreement is set for a specific term, beginning on September 17, 2024, and concluding on June 30, 2026. This extended timeframe suggests the university anticipates a comprehensive search for a permanent president.
The contract includes an incentive for stability. If Bierschbach completes the full term through June 2026, he will be awarded a $25,000 bonus. The agreement also allows for a potential extension if the Board of Governors and Bierschbach mutually agree it is necessary.
Additional Perks and Allowances
While Bierschbach is not required to live on campus, the university will provide him with access to the Max Jacob House, the traditional presidential residence, for official university events. This allows him to host functions and represent the university in a formal capacity.
The contract also includes a monthly vehicle allowance. Bierschbach will receive $750 per month to cover expenses related to transportation for his presidential duties.
Leadership Transition at Wayne State
Bierschbach's appointment, approved by a unanimous 7-0 vote from the Board of Governors, comes at a critical time for the university. His predecessor, Kimberly Andrews Espy, resigned after two years, with the university officially citing "personal reasons" for her departure.
Background on the Presidential Change
Reports indicated that Espy's resignation followed a period of tension between her administration, the university's board, and the faculty. A key point of contention was the decision to place Dr. Wael Sakr, the Dean of the School of Medicine, on paid administrative leave. Faculty leaders stated this move was made without proper consultation and violated the terms of an existing contract between the faculty and the administration.
The appointment of Dr. David Rosenberg as the acting dean of the medical school further contributed to the friction. The university's board moved quickly to install new leadership to navigate this challenging period.
Bierschbach's Role and Responsibilities
The contract explicitly states that Bierschbach will be fully dedicated to his new role. He will not be expected to perform any of his duties as the dean of the law school while serving as interim president. This ensures his complete focus is on managing the university's overall operations and strategic direction.
The university has indicated that Bierschbach's appointment is temporary. The expectation is that he will guide the institution through the presidential search process and then return to his position at the law school once a permanent president is in place.
"Bierschbach will not be expected to perform any of the duties of the dean of the law school while serving as interim president," the contract addendum clarifies, highlighting the full-time nature of the interim role.
Terms of the Agreement
The contract provides clear guidelines for the employment arrangement, offering flexibility for both Bierschbach and the university. He has the option to terminate the agreement by providing 30 days' notice.
Conversely, the Board of Governors retains the right to end the agreement at any time, with or without cause. This provision gives the board ultimate control over the university's leadership.
A crucial clause in the addendum protects Bierschbach's long-term career at the university. According to the document, any termination of the interim president agreement, regardless of the reason, will not affect his underlying employment on the faculty. This ensures he maintains his position at Wayne State beyond the interim period.
