The Senate Advisory Committee on University Affairs has announced the election of Derek Peterson as chair and Soumya Rangarajan as vice chair for the upcoming school year. This decision positions them to lead the executive arm of U-M’s central faculty governance, starting May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026. With a focus on faculty perspectives and governance, both leaders aim to address key educational challenges.
SACUA members chose Peterson, the Ali Mazrui Collegiate Professor of History and African Studies, for his extensive experience in history and Afroamerican studies. Rangarajan, a clinical assistant professor of internal medicine, was also elected, showcasing the diverse expertise joining U-M’s faculty leadership. Their election was finalized on April 14.
Peterson succeeds Rebekah Modrak, while Rangarajan replaces Heather O’Malley. Rangarajan highlighted the need for unity between Michigan Medicine and the university, noting the importance of medical research funding to both entities. She emphasized greater collaboration across U-M campuses.
“This is not a job that I sought or desired. But these are exigent times. Liberal education is under threat,” Peterson stated, highlighting the need for representation of faculty interests.
Rangarajan noted, “As the old saying goes, if you are not at the table, you are on the menu.” She stressed the interconnected nature of medical and university priorities, emphasizing the significance of academic freedom and governance.
Peterson and Rangarajan will also oversee the Senate Assembly and full Faculty Senate. The Senate Assembly comprises 77 elected faculty from Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses, while the Faculty Senate includes tenure-track and research faculty, librarians, and other academic staff.
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