When it comes to building a foundation of philanthropic support for Michigan State, MSU’s insiders—the faculty, staff, and retirees of the university—are the bedrock.
MSU faculty, staff, and retirees have given an average of more than $15 million each year throughout the Empower Extraordinary campaign, providing an insider vote of confidence that helped solidify the campaign’s success.
No one knows the inside story of the MSU community’s legendary generosity better than the seven members of the MSU Faculty, Staff, and Retiree Giving Advisory Board.
Since 2012, they have represented the energy and commitment of the entire MSU community. They are:
(From left to right)
Thomas (Tom) Luccock, retired director, Internal Audit
Suzy Merchant, head coach, MSU Women’s Basketball and honorary chair of the board
Deborah Sudduth, retired office supervisor, College of Human Medicine
Glen Brough, assistant director, Office of Admissions and visual coordinator, Spartan Marching Band
Kathy Lessard, retired administrative assistant, University Development
Diana D’Angelo, administrator, Analytics and Data Solutions
Martin Hawley, chairperson and professor emeritus, Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science
It’s no surprise to them that gifts to MSU from current and former faculty and staff are the highest reported in the Big Ten and consistently are at the top of the 62 distinguished institutions making up the American Association of Universities.
“All of us who currently work here and those who have retired feel strongly about being a Spartan,” says Suzy.
“Having the opportunity to share those experiences to help contribute to the fundraising campaign is an honor and a privilege.”
Diana and Martin agree.
“MSU has been a major positive influence on our lives,” explains Diana. “It’s time to and we want to give back.”
Glen adds: “It’s easy to provide financial support to an organization you believe in. For so many of us, MSU has played a profound role in shaping who we are as individuals and what we do both personally and professionally in our lives. Giving back to the institution is just one way of showing our commitment and gratitude for what the university has done for us.”
Tom, who grew up and was educated outside of Michigan, says he felt the strong commitment of insiders to MSU from day one on campus.
“I quickly became aware of the impact Michigan State has had on all who have been part of this great university,” Tom says. “Faculty, staff, and retirees have committed both their time and talent. They also have a breadth of knowledge to contribute their ideas and they want to share their resources where they know it may be the most beneficial to the future of MSU.”
All members saw the benefits of having the input of faculty, staff, and retirees in the campaign.
“MSU is our work home,” says Deborah. “Here we make friends who become family for all our lives. We are the foundation for the students to grow on. So it has to be strong.”
They’re all a little sad that their service on the advisory board will end as the campaign concludes in December, but they are confident the solid foundation of support will continue from the inside out.
“As a retiree, I feel it is my responsibility to help see programs I care about continue,” says Kathy. “It has been my privilege to be part of the campaign.”
