Viventi most recently served as the deputy director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, where she oversaw community engagement, communications and strategic operations. She is the first woman and ethnic minority to serve as Secretary of the Michigan Senate and oversaw sexual harassment policy and training for senators and staff members. 

“Carol has the depth of experience, cultural sensitivity and ability to manage complex operations that will be invaluable to the difficult task ahead," Engler said in the release. "Today is a new day at MSU, and she will help us move swiftly and decisively to implement changes to protect everyone affiliated with our campus. I am grateful she has agreed to take on this new role as the MSU community moves forward together.”

Viventi was also Legal Counsel to the non-partisan Joint Committee on Administrative Rules and was deputy Chief of Staff and Counsel to the Cabinet for Engler when he was Michigan governor.

“I’m very pleased that Carol accepted this responsibility," Mark Murray, Vice Chairman of Meijer and former President of Grand Valley State University said in the release. "I’ve worked with her in several different roles, and I have a deep respect for her abilities and intellect.

"The entire MSU community will benefit from her presence. As a former university President myself, I know she has the skills to excel in this role. And as a Spartan alum, I am proud and confident to have her and President Engler leading our efforts during this challenging time.”

Viventi received her bachelor's degree in Divisional Social Science from MSU and earned her J.D. from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She served as an adjunct professor at Western Michigan University and on the Board of Governors on the Japanese American National Museum.

“MSU is at a pivotal moment in its history,” Viventi said in the release. “We will do everything in our power to create a culture of accountability to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, faculty and staff. Together, as a team, I hope we can renew the trust and pride in our great University, and do whatever I can to help the community begin a new day at MSU.”