November 19, 2024

SDL Leaders Take Part in Inaugural Spartan Bus Tour

From Oct. 21-23, Michigan State University President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., and a group of faculty and administrators participated in the inaugural Spartan Bus Tour. They visited several communities across Michigan’s western Lower Peninsula, including Mount Pleasant, Traverse City, Muskegon and Grand Rapids, to strengthen community ties and highlight MSU’s commitment to education, research, outreach and extension.

Joining in on the trip were several administrators from within the Division of Student Life and Engagement. Specifically, leaders from the Department of Student Development and Leadership (SDL) were invited to take part. This included:  

  • Assistant Vice President for Student Development and Leadership (SDL) and MSU Dean of Students, Allyn Shaw, Ph.D.
  • Director of the Office of Spartan Experiences, Tammye Coles
  • Director of the Office of Community & Student Relations, Suchitra (Su) Webster

Participants were invited based on their ability to contribute meaningfully to the tour's objectives, such as engaging with community members and showcasing MSU’s strengths.  

The Spartan Bus Tour connects MSU leaders with communities throughout Michigan. By visiting different towns and engaging with local residents, MSU officials gain insight into each area’s unique needs and explore ways to collaborate. The tour also serves as a platform for the university to demonstrate its continued support for education, research and outreach statewide. Ultimately, the goal is to build partnerships and celebrate the positive impact Spartans are having in Michigan communities.

Shaw explained his motivation for joining: “At the beginning of the planning process, I was invited to join the committee due to my work on Meet MI during my time in Faculty and Organizational Development. Being involved in creating the tour was an exciting opportunity to help MSU faculty and staff better understand the state and the university’s work in local communities. 

The program exceeded all expectations in what we were able to offer.” Shaw added, “MSU has always had a strong presence across Michigan, whether through University Outreach and Engagement, Extension, or SLE programs like the College Advising Corps. What was most exciting was seeing the appreciation from local communities for MSU’s contributions and their continued engagement.” 

Click here to watch a recap video of the inaugural bus tour.

Read: Impactful, enriching, rewarding: 8 takeaways from the inaugural Spartan Bus Tour 


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