Compiled Laws, Chapter 168. Michigan Election Law § 168.294

Sec. 294.  Whenever a vacancy shall occur on the state board of education, the board of regents of the University of Michigan, the board of trustees of Michigan State University, or the board of governors of Wayne State University, the governor shall appoint a successor to fill such vacancy, and the person so appointed shall take the oath of office and shall hold office for the remainder of the unexpired term and until his successor is elected and qualified.  A candidate receiving the highest number of votes for membership on any of said boards and who has subscribed to the constitutional oath shall be deemed to be elected and qualified even though a vacancy occurs prior to the time he shall have entered upon the duties of his office.