Celebrities Teaching at the University of Michigan: A Closer Look at Their Salaries
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, some well-known figures are making their mark as educators at the University of Michigan (UM). This includes Grammy winners, bestselling authors, and influential journalists. Their salaries are publicly available, giving a glimpse into what these notable personalities earn in academia.
While the numbers reflect a portion of their earnings, they don’t account for bonuses, grants, or any additional income they might receive. This makes the pay figures somewhat limited in scope.
Here are ten celebrity faculty members at UM and their reported salaries for 2025:
John Cameron Mitchell
The acclaimed director and star of Hedwig and the Angry Inch earns $390,098. He joined the film, television, and media department this fall, bringing his unique perspective to UM.Kara Swisher
Noted journalist and tech commentator, Swisher makes $204,082. Known for her work on the Recode website and her popular podcasts, she enriches the classroom with her real-world insights.Eli Savit
As the Washtenaw County prosecutor and a lecturer at UM Law School, Savit earns $95,400. His dual role gives students a practical understanding of law and public service.Chris Vrenna
Once the drummer for Nine Inch Nails, Vrenna now teaches at the School of Music, Theatre & Dance with an annual salary of $93,042. His transition from musician to educator highlights the intersection of creativity and academia.Michael Daugherty
A celebrated music composer with six Grammy Awards, Daugherty’s salary is $149,802. His long tenure at UM since 1991 allows him to mentor the next generation of musicians.Mark Schlissel
Former UM president, Schlissel received a salary of $204,000. After a controversial exit, he returned to teach human immunology, illustrating the complexities surrounding leadership in academia.Biff Poggi
The interim head football coach, Poggi, makes $45,000. His background as a hedge fund co-owner adds a unique angle to his role in sports education.Timothy McAllister
This Grammy-winning saxophonist brings his expertise to the classroom with a salary of $209,494. As a member of the Grammy-winning PRISM Quartet, his experience enhances the learning environment.Amy Stillman
A professor of American culture and music, Stillman earned $149,557 this year. Her two Grammy Awards showcase her dedication to both music and education.Ruth Behar
The acclaimed anthropologist and author received $187,160. Her works, including Traveling Heavy, connect students with real-world experiences in anthropology.
According to a database created by MLive/The Ann Arbor News, these salaries reflect the university’s effort to be transparent about employee compensation. Recent data from the university’s annual salary report adds to the understanding of earnings within academia.
The presence of these celebrities at UM not only elevates the university’s profile but also enriches the educational experience for students. Their unique backgrounds and knowledge provide invaluable insights that extend beyond textbooks, fostering a vibrant learning community.
For more detailed salary statistics for all UM employees, visit UM Salary Database.
