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Former $3B CEO Alan Turfe elected chair of Western Michigan University Board
Zoom Home Lending chair to leverage decades of Fortune 500 leadership to drive innovation in University governance and student ROI
Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:50pm
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Former $3 billion revenue CEO Alan Turfe was unanimously elected chair of the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees. Turfe, who currently chairs Zoom Home Lending, will leverage his extensive leadership experience across industries to help position the University to better serve students and communities.
Why it matters
Turfe's appointment as board chair comes at a critical time for higher education, as universities navigate shifting student expectations and the evolving job market. His background leading major corporations can provide a practical, forward-looking perspective to help WMU innovate and ensure strong returns on investment for students.
The details
One of the board's recent actions was to approve the purchase of a Newell Rubbermaid building in WMU's Business Technology and Research Park to meet future academic, operational and athletic needs in a cost-effective manner. WMU President Russ Kavalhuna noted that Turfe's career leading national enterprises provides the 'practical, forward-looking perspective' essential for navigating the changing landscape of higher education.
- Alan Turfe was unanimously elected chair of the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees on March 13, 2026.
The players
Alan Turfe
Former chairman, president and CEO of $3 billion pharmaceutical distribution and technology company J M Smith Corp., with extensive leadership experience across industries including automotive, e-commerce, metals, medical devices, biotechnology, life sciences and pharmacy.
Russ Kavalhuna
President of Western Michigan University.
What they’re saying
“That ability to think across sectors and champion innovation helps position our University to serve students and our communities.”
— Russ Kavalhuna, President, Western Michigan University
What’s next
The board under Chair Alan Turfe will prioritize shared governance, innovation and fiduciary leadership to navigate the evolving higher education landscape and ensure student success.
The takeaway
Turfe's appointment as WMU board chair brings a wealth of Fortune 500 experience that can help the university adapt to shifting student and workforce needs, while maintaining a focus on affordability and strong returns on investment for students.
