Former U.S. Representative Dan Kildee named next Griffin Endowed Chair

Former U.S. Representative Dan Kildee has been named Central Michigan University’s next Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government. This prestigious position underscores CMU's dedication to fostering political engagement, scholarly excellence, and public discourse on pivotal governmental issues.

Dan Kildee, a lifelong Michigander born and raised in Flint, brings a wealth of experience to CMU. He served as a U.S. Representative from Michigan from 2013 to 2025, following a distinguished career of service in Genesee County and Flint. Kildee has been a tireless advocate for education for all of Michigan. He has lectured at both Baker College Flint and Harvard Kennedy School.

As the Griffin Chair, Kildee will teach an undergraduate course focusing on U.S. government policy issues affecting Michigan. This popular course will provide students with firsthand exposure to complex political matters and feature guest speakers from government and industry. The Griffin Chair also coordinates and hosts forums addressing topics relevant to Michigan, drawing on experts from government, business, academia and other sectors who will be invited to participate.

Reflecting on his new role, Kildee stated, “I am deeply honored to join CMU as the Griffin Endowed Chair. I have spent a career advocating for education, I am excited to be able to directly engage with CMU students. Understanding our political systems and history is an essential part of helping communities address critical issues facing our state and nation, and CMU students are hungry for the knowledge to help them serve.”

Kildee's career is marked by significant achievements, including co-founding and serving as president of the Center for Community Progress, a national nonprofit focused on urban land reform and revitalization. He also established Michigan's first land bank—the Genesee County Land Bank—which has been instrumental in redeveloping Flint and has served as a model for over 100 other land banks nationwide. Never one to slow down, Kildee now serves as the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and Chair of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.

“Dan Kildee's extensive experience in public service and his deep understanding of Michigan's people and political landscape make him an exceptional choice for this role," said Richard Rothaus, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. “I love that Rep. Kildee did not stop to rest after his time in Congress. Our students could not have a better role model of how knowledge and a passion for service can be combined.”

Thomas Greitens, Chair of the School of Politics, Society, Justice and Public Service at CMU emphasized that Rep. Kildee, from the start, has demonstrated how much he is bringing to CMU.  “Dan Kildee is bringing Jim Ananich, ten-year Michigan State Senator and Minority leader, with him as a co-instructor and partner during his tenure as Griffin Chair. Of course, I am excited about the value added, but the real treasure is that our students will see first-hand how partnerships make change.”

Established in 2000, the Griffin Endowed Chair honors CMU alumni Senator Robert P. Griffin (Class of 1947) and Marjorie Griffin (Class of 1944), recognizing their commitment to public service and civic engagement. Kildee becomes the eighth individual to hold this esteemed position, succeeding Andrea LaFontaine.