Today’s weather forecast is predicting intervals of clouds and sunshine with a high of 50 degrees and a low of 28 degrees.
MSU’s status reaffirmed after accreditation scare
In a major step for Michigan State University, the school’s accreditation has been reaffirmed for another ten years, following a tense period where it was nearly jeopardized by trustee misconduct.
The Higher Learning Commission, which evaluates universities’ accreditation status, confirmed MSU met all necessary criteria after a decennial review. This decision is crucial as it impacts federal funding and financial aid for students.
The university’s accreditation was at risk due to allegations of misconduct involving former board chair Rema Vassar, who was accused of interfering with university operations and accepting gifts from donors–both actions prohibited by the Commission. A subsequent investigation in early 2024 revealed further trustee misconduct, leading to censure and calls for the governor to consider removing Vassar and fellow trustee Dennis Denno.
In response, MSU took swift action, implementing reforms and ensuring the board’s compliance with governance standards. After assessing the changes, the Higher Learning Commission commended the board for making significant improvements, urging them to continue their progress.
This reaffirmation of accreditation marks a key recovery moment for MSU, signaling a positive direction after a turbulent period.
MSU unveils final design concepts for permanent campus shooting memorial
Michigan State University has unveiled three proposed designs for a permanent memorial to honor the victims of the February 13, 2023, campus shooting. The university is now inviting the MSU community to provide feedback on these designs through a survey, which will be open until March 31.
The three designs are set in two possible locations: Sleepy Hollow, between Beaumont Tower and the Music Practice Building, or the Old Horticulture Garden near the Student Services Building. The final design will be selected after public feedback and review by the Public Art on Campus Committee, with construction expected to begin in spring and summer 2025.
The first proposal, by artists Carlos Portillo and Jessica Guinto, places the memorial in the Old Horticulture Gardens. It features a reflective black granite and white marble pond, symbolizing healing and remembrance, surrounded by benches and a path representing the three victims.
The second proposal, “Circles of Reflection” by HWKN, situates the memorial in Sleepy Hollow and consists of three unique spaces–a gathering circle, meditative circle, and social circle–each with a tree and plaque to honor the victims.
The third proposal, by artist James Dinh, also in Sleepy Hollow, combines “Camp Circle” and “Memory Windows”–three radiating stone walls with colored glass that symbolize unity, reflection, and the fragility of life.
The community’s input will be essential in shaping the final memorial design.
MSU’s African Studies Center celebrates its 65th anniversary
This year marks the 65th anniversary of Michigan State University’s African Studies Center, a hub for events and programs that explore Africa’s global impact. Located in the International Center, the center offers resources for students to deepen their understanding of Africa and its diverse cultures.
While the African Studies Center was officially established in 1960, MSU’s international connections date back nearly 170 years. According to Director Leo Zulu, the university’s African engagement began with a partnership in Nigeria that led to the creation of the University of Nigeria at Nsukka. Since then, MSU has expanded its partnerships, collaborating with over 150 institutions across Africa in fields such as agriculture, health, biomedical sciences, social sciences, and more.
The center also supports MSU students by offering opportunities to study African languages through Foreign Languages and Area Studies (FLAS) fellowships, which provide financial support for studying abroad. Zulu also highlighted the center’s efforts to promote African education statewide, with outreach programs aimed at K-12 teachers.
Damaris Choti, the center’s coordinator for student and alumni programs, emphasizes that the center is open to all students, not just those with African backgrounds. She encourages everyone to engage in programs that promote global learning and citizenship, reinforcing the university’s mission.
One of the center’s biggest events, Taste of Africa, takes place on April 11 at McDonel Hall. The event celebrates African culture through food, music, and dance, and offers a chance for students to network with African student groups on campus.
With its diverse programs and resources, the African Studies Center invites all MSU students to engage, learn, and connect with the rich history and culture of Africa.
Based on original reporting by Theo Scheer, Demonte Thomas and Melody Meyer.
