From the President - Summer 2020

I want to thank you for supporting MSU during the past several months, which have been challenging. But as you know, we have been an innovative, accessible and life-changing model for higher education for 165 years.

Today we face converging and difficult circumstances, from a global pandemic disproportionately affecting Black, Hispanic and Indigenous communities to the recognition after brutal killings of Black Americans that racism is often still embedded in our society and institutions.

Our values require a more equitable and inclusive experience for our Spartan community. We will continue to do the hard work required to ensure that all who study and work here can achieve their highest potential in a truly respectful, welcoming and supported community—and most importantly, one that is safe.

One thing that remains constant is my admiration for our faculty and staff. Last spring, they swiftly pivoted to offer high-quality, remote learning. As for our students, I’m honored to welcome into our alumni ranks the Class of 2020, members of which completed their programs despite pandemic-driven disruption.

In addition, we all are appreciative of our researchers, physicians, faculty, staff, alumni and others who, during the height of the pandemic, did a great deal to provide personal protective equipment to first responders, conducted testing, undertook vital research and continued outreach that will benefit people the world over.

Presently, we’re working to ensure MSU will safely re-open for in-person and remote instruction. Planning is overseen by a team of experts led by two top MSU physicians with deep experience in public health and safety. Fall will look different here as we wear face coverings and apply social distancing protocols. But the fundamentals of the Spartan experience and the value of an MSU degree will remain strong.

Confronting society’s greatest challenges is what we do. I intend that we be ready for the opportunities and challenges that we will face, now and into the future.

Thank you for all you do for MSU.
I hope to see you soon on the banks of the Red Cedar.

Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.
PRESIDENT, MSU