Office of the President

Jonathan Michael was appointed Interim President of Bradley University in June 2024. He is the retired chairman and CEO of RLI Corp and has served on the Bradley University Board of Trustees since 2016, most recently as Board Chair. As Interim President, Michael is responsible for all university operations.

Interim President Michael brings more than 40 years of experience with RLI Corp, where he held various managerial and executive officer positions. Michael’s experience provides him with a unique perspective into university operations, employees, and the strategic vision needed to navigate the success of Bradley University.

Michael is currently a member of other Peoria organizations including the OSF St. Francis Medical Center Community Advisory Board, the Easter Seals Foundation, the Gilmore Foundation, and the Greater Peoria Leadership Council. He is also the Chair of TADA Cognitive Solutions and Lead Independent Director of SS&C (Nasdaq SSNC).

In addition, Interim President Michael has held board and executive committee positions at Ohio Dominican University, Eureka College, and Illinois Central College. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ohio Dominican College.