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Philanthropy and Service

Feb. 12, 2026

An uncommon evening

The spirit of East Lansing came alive in Los Angeles as Spartans celebrated the generosity driving the Uncommon Will, Far Better World campaign.

Image of the event space for the LA momentum event featuring projections ofc campus trees and the Spartan statue
The space featured projections of campus icons including the Spartan Statue, the Red Cedar River and campus tree throughout the seasons.
A group poses with Sparty at the LA momentum event in February 2026.

Familiar sights were all around—the Spartan Statue, on guard, surrounded by lush green trees and blooming pink flowers. Beaumont Tower, rising high above the crowd. Sparty, shaking hands and taking pictures, leaving joy in his wake.

But this wasn't East Lansing. 

Over dinner and a program in a historic Los Angeles venue, Spartans connected and celebrated the momentum of the $4 billion "Uncommon Will, Far Better World" campaign, which launched one year ago in March.

The event, held at Vibiana, transported attendees back to the banks of the Red Cedar. Projections of Michigan State landmarks danced across the walls and ceiling of the former cathedral. Sparty, as usual, delighted alumni and friends alike, and student stories from current Spartans Kaylin Casper and Karam Mawazini illustrated the lasting impact of every gift.

MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. and Kim Tobin, vice president for University Advancement conduct a fireside chat with alums Brian O'Connor and Bill Mechanic.
The event featured a fireside chat with MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., Vice President for University Advancement Kim Tobin, and alums Brian O'Connor, '91, and Bill Mechanic, '73. 

With a focus on the possibilities of MSU’s future, Spartans were encouraged to “Imagine if…”. That is, envision the ideal university of tomorrow and start working to make it happen today. 

The night helped bring the future into focus while honoring the rich traditions that epitomize MSU. It was a celebration of uncommon will, and a gathering of California Spartans who inspire one another to build a far better world.

You can relive the evening here. And, you can watch Kaylin's inspiring story here.
 

Interior of the event space featuring Sparty on stage in front of a projection of the Red Cedar River and fall trees on campus.
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