Arthur Vine (’64, Spartan Proud) completed his accounting degree from MSU and reported for work two weeks later in MSU’s business office.
The tech-savvy up-and-comer was tasked with computerizing the university’s financial statements. Back in 1964, that meant creating code for every check that came in, a role that often put him in direct contact with people at the very top.
“I talked right to Duffy Daugherty—the legendary football coach,” Arthur recalls. “I told him he had $1 million in contributions he didn’t know he had.”
Arthur went on to a long career in the State of Michigan’s Housing Development Authority, moving up to a top job himself. But, he never forgot where he got his start.
So when he gets a call from the MSU Greenline each year, he is happy to hear about his alma mater and to make an annual gift.
“MSU always has been a priority for us,” says Arthur, whose late wife, Sandra “Sandy” (65, 67), also was a dedicated alumna.
Sandy, a longtime middle school teacher, believed in the power of the performing
arts to influence young minds. Arthur’s penchant ran more for athletics and, of course, accounting.
So it’s always been gifts to Spartan Fund and the business college for him and to Wharton Center for her.
Though officially retired, Arthur still keeps a hand in the business world by running a side business preparing tax returns. Over the years, he has often hired MSU accounting students to help. And he never turns down a chance to watch Spartan student-athletes in live action.
“I’m proud of MSU and all it does to help students get their start in life,” says Arthur. “And I am happy to help.”
MSU Greenline connects with alumni, friends, graduating seniors, and parents of MSU students throughout the year to raise nearly $1 million. It’s one of the backbones for making sure critical support is in place for students and faculty, every day.
Lois Furry, '89