Other Departments and Offices for Research and Services

Jeffrey Riedinger, Dean

Michigan State University conducts active programs of international education, research and outreach and engagement on the East Lansing campus and in numerous locations abroad. The university’s international dimension is coordinated and facilitated by the Office of International Studies and Programs (ISP). The wide array of activities and programs gives students, faculty and staff at Michigan State University numerous ways to explore global issues and to gain global experience and competence. Faculty members, in virtually every discipline, conduct international research and continue to enhance Michigan State University courses with relevant international dimensions.

On campus in East Lansing, ISP geographic and thematic units include the African Studies Center, Asian Studies Center, Canadian Studies Centre, Center for Gender in Global Context, Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, and the Center for European and Russian Studies. Through its colleges, Michigan State University offers area-specific specializations in African Studies, Asian Studies, Canadian Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Russian and East European Studies and Western European Studies. International specializations include international agriculture; international business; international development; gender, justice and environmental change; and women, gender and social justice. A growing number of international education options are available in academic programs throughout the University.

The Center for Advanced Study of International Development, the Center for International Business Education and Research, the Center for Language Education and Research, the Institute of International Agriculture, the Institute of International Health and the Office of International Studies in Education coordinate numerous activities with the Colleges of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Arts and Letters, Broad Business, Education, Human Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Nursing, and Social Science among others. Michigan State University has five centers that are designated as national resource and language resource centers through the U.S. Department of Education Title VI program.

Michigan State University’s study abroad programs are facilitated and overseen by ISP. Its Office of Study Abroad coordinates the offering of more than  240 Michigan State University programs in over 60 countries worldwide ranging from the study of English literature in London; to natural resources in Brazil; to education, society and learning in South Africa; to studies in Antarctic system science in Antarctica and Argentina. ISP administers the Japan Center for Michigan Universities on behalf of the 15 Michigan public universities that comprise the consortium. The center’s programs are dedicated to building relationships among Japanese, Americans and other nationalities through active learning and participation in language, culture and internships.

ISP oversees the Office for International Students and Scholars, which is responsible for serving approximately 1,000 visiting international scholars and 4,500 international students annually on campus. ISP facilitates the development of linkages between Michigan State University and a variety of international institutions and currently maintains approximately 160 collaborative agreements worldwide. The significant relationships and mutual contacts that have developed through these agreements promote enriching opportunities for exchanges of faculty, staff and students.

In order to draw upon the broad range of disciplines and expertise of Michigan State University’s faculty, staff and researchers, the Office of International Development was established at Michigan State University to provide technical support and assist faculty and graduate students interested in implementing collaborative international development projects around the globe. ISP also oversees the Peace Corps Strategic Recruiting Office at Michigan State University.

Michigan State University conducts joint research and development programs with many countries in Africa, Asia/Oceania, Europe and Latin America. These projects may be supported through agreements with other governments, the U.S. Agency for International Development, other U.S. government agencies, the World Bank or private foundations.

For more information, call 1-517-355-2350 or visit www.isp.msu.edu.

James Pritchett, Director

Formally organized in 1960, the African Studies Center promotes understanding of Africa on campus, in the State of Michigan, and throughout the nation.  It is one of the most prominent centers for the study of Africa in the nation with 170 Michigan State University faculty with expertise on Africa.  To this end, it encourages teaching and research concerning Africa and reciprocal linkages with Africans and African institutions.  The center is not a degree-awarding unit.  Rather, it generates and promotes Africa-related perspectives through departmental teaching programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and through interdisciplinary programs.  Fellowships are awarded by the Center for African Language and Area Studies in departments in which there are African studies faculty.  Disciplines represented by the faculty of the Center are found in the following colleges and departments: College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Agricultural Economics; Animal Science; Crop and Soil Sciences; Fisheries and Wildlife; Food Science and Human Nutrition; Horticulture; and Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies), College of Arts and Letters (Art and Art History; English; French, Classics and Italian; Linguistics, and Germanic, Slavic, Asian and African Languages; Religious Studies; and Spanish and Portuguese), College of Communication Arts and Sciences (Journalism), College of Education (Educational Administration; and Teacher Education), College of Human Medicine (Epidemiology; and Pediatrics and Human Development), College of Music (Music), College of Natural Science (Physiology), College of Nursing (Nursing), College of Osteopathic Medicine (Family and Community Medicine; Neurology and Ophthalmology), College of Social Science (Anthropology; Economics; Family and Child Ecology; Geography; History; Labor and Industrial Relations; Political Science; and Sociology), and the College of Veterinary Medicine (Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation).

Students may concentrate work on Africa as an area and draw on other African studies courses outside their disciplines.

An undergraduate specialization in African Studies and a Global and Area Studies major are available for interested students.  For additional information, refer to the statement on the specialization and the major in the College of Social Science section of this catalog. More than 20 study programs in Africa are available for shorter periods and semesters.

The Department of Linguistics and Germanic, Slavic, Asian and African Languages currently offers courses in Arabic, Hausa, and Swahili.  By special arrangement, instruction in the following African languages is offered on request:  Acholi, Akan/Twi, Amharic, Bambara/Dyula/Mandingo, Bemba, Fula (Fulfulde, Pulaar), Igbo, Kikuyu, Kinyarwanda, Kpelle, Krio, Lingala, Luganda, Malagasay, Mende, Nyanja/Chichewa, Oromo, Sesotho, Shona, Somali, Temne, Tigrinya, West African Pidgin, Wolof, Xhosa/Zulu, and Yoruba.

The center administers an Outreach Program including the African Media Program which evaluates instructional materials about Africa and brings Africa-related materials into schools, colleges and universities, adult education programs, youth groups, community institutions, businesses, and the media.

The center publishes Northeast African Studies through the MSU Press.  The center also distributes the African Studies Center Newsletter and the weekly Tuesday Bulletin.

For more detailed information, visit www.africa.msu.edu.

Linda Racioppi, Acting Director

The Asian Studies Center was established in 1962 to further knowledge and understanding of the countries of Asia, with a concentration on East Asia.  In 2000, the Center became the nation's first all-Asia National Undergraduate Resource Center, expanding the Center's focus to include regions as diverse as Central and Southeast Asia.

The center’s primary function is to enrich education in the social sciences, humanities, and professional school training through Asia-centered curricular, extra-curricular, and outreach activities. A primary mission is to educate people who wish to become area specialists and integrate knowledge of Asia into their disciplinary studies. The center is designed to strengthen undergraduate and graduate academic programs, stimulate research and publications, aid in reciprocal linkages with Asian institutions, and facilitate activities in other related areas.

The center coordinates Asian Studies offerings of the various disciplines on campus. Students are enrolled in the participating colleges and departments and receive credit through regular channels. An undergraduate degree program in East Asian Languages and Cultures, an Asia track in the Global and Area Studies B.A. program, and a specialization in Asian Studies are available. For additional information on degree programs, refer to the College of Social Science and the Department of Linguistics and Germanic, Slavic, Asian and African Languages in the College of Arts and Letters sections of this catalog.

Asian languages taught in the Department of Linguistics and Germanic, Slavic, Asian and African Languages include Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, Nepali, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Thai, Korean, and others. Other academic units offering courses on Asia include Agricultural Economics, Anthropology, Art and Art History, Economics, Geography, History, James Madison, Philosophy, Political Science, Religious Studies, and Sociology. Interdisciplinary courses on Asia are offered at the undergraduate level to provide a stimulating introduction to the area and to encourage further course work. Graduate students may receive funding through the Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) grant program for advanced Asian language study in furtherance of their programs of study.

The center’s activities include bringing distinguished scholars as visiting professors to the campus in cooperation with interested departments, and inviting other specialists to the campus for lectures or seminars, and to meet with faculty and students. The center also arranges special institutes on research and teaching and secures research support for faculty and graduate students.

The center houses several Asian country councils and various undergraduate and graduate student academic award programs.

AnnMarie Schneider, Acting Director

The Canadian Studies Centre is a multi–disciplinary unit with over seventy faculty and graduate students representing over thirty departments, the Libraries, and the Michigan State University Museum. The centre’s mission is derived from Michigan State University’s land–grant ethic of teaching, research, and outreach. Since its inception in 1958 as a faculty interest group, the Canadian Studies Centre has become a major generator of scholarship related to Canada in the United States. Michigan State University faculty offer a broad array of courses, both undergraduate and graduate, and are involved in diverse research and outreach activities focusing on Canada and its relations with the United States, Latin America, the Pacific Basin, and Europe. Students interested in further study may enroll in the Specialization in Canadian Studies. For information about the specialization and internships, refer to the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

In partnership with the Canada-U.S. Fulbright program, the Centre annually hosts a senior Canadian Visiting Scholar and regularly arranges visits to campus of distinguished Canadian scholars, government personnel, and artists who lecture in courses, conduct seminars and colloquia, and consult with students and faculty. The annual CN Forum on Canada-U.S. Relations provides an opportunity for students and government and business leaders from Michigan and Ontario to meet with national leaders to discuss issues of common concern. Other special events such as conferences, film series, and art exhibits are presented. The centre supports the Freshman Seminar Abroad in Quebec City and seeks to make resources available to Michigan public schools and programs. In addition, centre faculty consult with the private and public sector on issues affecting Canada and maintain inter–institutional relationships with Canadian universities. The Michigan State University Libraries rank among the top ten U.S. libraries in its support of Canadian Studies programs. The MSU Press is a major U.S. publisher of scholarly books and monographs on Canada.

Norman Graham, Director

Michigan State University offers more than 375 undergraduate and graduate courses relating to Europe and the former Soviet Union. The center facilitates teaching, research, and outreach activities relating to these areas. Undergraduate students interested in further study may enroll in the Specialization in Russian and East European Studies. Faculty from the center also offer course work focusing on European and Russian studies. They direct study-abroad programs in ninety-five countries in the region, including among others, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

The center coordinates visiting speakers, film series, and conferences and workshops of interest to students, faculty, and the surrounding community. Numerous opportunities for study in Europe and Russia are available, with support from the center’s 70 core faculty and numerous linkage agreements with universities throughout Europe. The center also serves as a resource for elementary and secondary schools as well as for civic organizations and groups throughout the State.

For information about the Specialization in Russian and East European Studies, refer to the College of Arts and Letters section of this catalog.

For information about the Specialization in Western European Studies, refer to the James Madison College section of this catalog.  For additional information about the center and study abroad opportunities in the region, visit our Web site at www.isp.msu.edu/CERS.

Robert Blake, Director

The Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies (CLACS) seeks to coordinate the rich diversity of Latin American and Caribbean interests at Michigan State University as well as to promote a variety of academic, cultural, and social activities focusing on the region. Specifically, the center's activities include:  (1) stimulating and facilitating faculty and graduate student research by providing assistance in seeking funding from external donors; (2) cultivating undergraduate interest and study of the region through a specialization program, experiential learning opportunities, and scholarship; (3) assisting key departments in their efforts to increase staff with Latin American and Caribbean interests and courses with Latin American and Caribbean content; (4) publishing research titles that reflect a broad spectrum of fields and topics; and (5) providing the interested community both on and off the campus with current information regarding Latin American and Caribbean related events and studies.    CLACS outreach activities include assistance to both the private and public sectors and professional development opportunities for educators in K-12 settings, community colleges, and for professional associations in Michigan.

Academic units that offer courses with substantial Latin American and Caribbean content include Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Anthropology, Communication, Economics, Education, Family and Child Ecology, Geography, History, James Madison, Journalism, Music, Spanish and Portuguese, and Sociology.  A considerable range of language offerings is available as well.  Additional information on the undergraduate Specialization in Latin American and Caribbean Studies is  available in the College of Social Science section of this catalog.

The director of CLACS is assisted by an elected advisory committee that represents the more than 150 faculty members associated with the Center. The membership is drawn from several colleges, departments, and schools.

CLACS facilitates opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students interested in the region, including inter–institutional relationships with Latin American and Caribbean universities.

Peter Briggs, Director

The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides services for students and scholars from over 130 countries who enroll, conduct research, or engage in teaching at Michigan State University. The services provided include advising on immigration procedures, financial needs, and personal concerns to promote a successful experience at Michigan State University. Educational programs provided by OISS include orientation sessions, workshops, and cultural events designed to acclimate students and scholars to the Michigan State University community. The Office for International Students and Scholars is Michigan State University's primary information resource on issues related to international students and scholars; it collaborates with the offices of Admissions, Registrar, and Financial Aid, in addition to academic colleges, departments, and schools. The office acts as a liaison with community, national, and international organizations and agencies on international student and scholar issues.

Cindy Chalou, Acting Director

Michigan State University has established itself as a national leader in study abroad by sending more of its students across international borders than any other public university in the United States. Participating in Michigan State University’s top-rated program helps its students prepare for our global society – gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will prepare them for the challenges of living and working in the global contexts of the new millennium. An increasingly common component of excellence in higher education today, study abroad is an integral part of the undergraduate experience, especially at Michigan State University, where currently, over twenty-five percent of Michigan State University graduates participate in study abroad. With over 240 study abroad programs including every continent – from Asia to Antarctica – students can travel to more than 60 countries.  A wide variety of courses abroad are available including Integrative Studies, required elective, and internship courses.  Programs take place during every semester including winter and spring breaks, which, in combination with the diverse course selection and the variety of locations makes it possible for all majors to participate. Additionally, Michigan State University offers a Freshman Seminar abroad, which takes place the summer prior to a student's first fall semester on campus.

Students are encouraged to explore study abroad opportunities as early as the summer before their freshman year. To contact the Office of Study Abroad, visit 109 International Center, call (517) 353-8920, e-mail studyabroad.msu.edu or log-on to www.studyabroad.msu.edu.

For additional information, see the Guest Status at Another Institution in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog.

Anne Ferguson and Lisa Fine, Co-Directors

The Center for Gender in Global Context (GenCen) promotes teaching, research, and outreach on processes of global change including flows of ideas, peoples, trade, and communication networks and how they affect gender and other social inequalities around the world, across the nation, and at home. The center's approach is multi-disciplinary, comparative, transnational, and transcultural, bringing together faculty and students in the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, agriculture  and natural resources, and medical and professional fields. Attention is given to the intersections of gender identities with racial, ethnic, sexual, socioeconomic, and other differences.

The center houses the Women and International Development (WID) Program, which acts as a catalyst for the scholarly discussion of how processes of international development and global change affect women and gender relations. WID and the Center for Advanced Study of International Development (CASID) are recognized as a National Resource Center by the U.S. Department of Education, Title VI Program. The WID Bulletin, an information source on new materials in international development and gender studies, is published by WID three times a year. WID also publishes Working Papers on Women in International Development, one of the longest-standing series of its kind. Title VI-related resources for faculty research initiation and course development are made available to affiliated faculty.

The center works with colleges to develop innovative academic programming on gender and global change.

Through its grant-writing services, the Center for Gender in Global Context promotes interdisciplinary, gender-focused faculty research. The center and WID sponsor speakers' series, colloquia, and other events during the academic year.

David Gift, Vice Provost

Libraries, Computing and Technology serves the university’s needs in the areas of library services, academic and administrative computing and networking, public radio and television broadcasting, data resources management, classroom technology and instructional media, and online instructional resources.

The Office of the Vice Provost for Libraries, Computing and Technology also is responsible for technology policy development and implementation, faculty technology development, instructional technology planning, and management of budgets.

The following unit directors report to the Vice Provost:

Academic Technology Services (ATS) provides students, faculty, and staff with academic technologies in support of teaching, learning, and research. ATS provides, operates, and maintains the university’s network and Internet, instructional technology, and campus-wide computing services. The Academic Computing Services team operates Michigan State University’s centrally supported course management system, ANGEL; an extensive network of computer laboratories and technology classrooms; Michigan State University’s NetID system; a dynamic web hosting service; test scoring; and computer repair. Support Services provides general computing help desk services, Web design, technology education and training and oversees datacenter operations and systems integration. Network Services runs Michigan State University’s central e-mail system; maintains the university’s network and Internet links; handles network security and abuse issues; provides students, faculty, and staff with file storage and Web page space and facilitates discovery with a high performance computing center. Media Services provides comprehensive multimedia and instructional technology support services; operates the Michigan State University Computer Store; and provides creative design and photographic services. Access to resources and services are available at www.ats.msu.edu.

Administrative Information Services (AIS) builds, integrates, operates and supports administrative information technology solutions that contribute to the success of the university’s mission. Its major services include developing and maintaining systems and data to sustain core university support and academic administration functions such as student records, course enrollment, financial aid, student billing and payment application, university financial records, human resources, and alumni/donor records. AIS functions include operation of:  data center housing for diverse university administrative systems; data warehouses for reporting use; web and application hosting for university units; office systems support; a Help Center; and related technology training.

WKAR-TV provides public television service on channel 23 and digital channel 40 and is affiliated with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and the Michigan Association for Public Broadcasters (MAPB). Broadcasting Services also operates University radio stations, WKAR-AM at 870 and WKAR-FM at 90.5.

All the stations provide entertaining, educational and culturally enriching programming to University faculty, staff and students as well as to the citizens living in their mid-Michigan viewing and listening area.  Content produced and by each of the stations is streamed via the Internet at www.wkar.org.

WKAR Radio also offers a specialized broadcast service for persons with visual disabilities. The Radio Talking Book is presented twenty-four hours a day via a subchannel of WKAR-FM.

WKAR-AM-FM are affiliated with the National Public Radio and the Michigan Public Radio Network through which some programming is obtained.  Satellite-distributed teleconferences of varied types and for a variety of instructional and informational purposes are organized by Broadcasting Services through its Interactive Video Services. Michigan State University cooperates with many originating groups and networks in hosting teleconferences for professional and public groups, as well as for university audiences. Broadcasting Services coordinates these activities and also produces teleconference originations in both audio and video formats for University groups as well as for external educational groups.

Enterprise Business Systems Projects (EBSP) manages a portfolio of large scale projects for the design and implementation of an integrated set of administrative business systems for Michigan State University. The initial functional foci of these projects is to upgrade and replace financial, human resources and research administration information systems.  Along with these functional system upgrades, the overall systems architecture is becoming more modular and services orientedwith the redesign and upgrade of foundational components such as security, identity management, middleware, data warehouses and analytic tools.

The Enterprise Information Stewardship Office facilitates and coordinates the management of the university’s data resources, and development and maintenance of its information technology policy framework in support of Michigan State University’s integrated instructional, research and public service mission. Data administration promotes and facilitates the accessibility, integrity and integration of the institutional data assets and systems; and coupled with information technology policy promotes maintenance of the confidentiality, integrity and security of the data and creation and maintenance of a trusted network.

The MSU Libraries, consisting of the Main Library and several branch libraries, provides a broad array of information resources and services to support research needs.  The Libraries are the primary source for traditional materials (books, journals, newspapers, microforms) as well as for digital resources and over 800 research indexes. With almost 400 public computer workstations and wireless accessibility throughout the building, the Main Library is the largest computer lab on campus.  Librarians support information needs, virtually and in-person, through traditional desk hours, e-mail, and chat. The world-renowned Turfgrass Information Center, with the most comprehensive publicly available collection of turfgrass educational materials in the world and the Special Collections Division with important holdings in Africana, comic art, and veterinary medicine are just two of the units that showcase the unique and recognizable contributions the Libraries make to the academic community. The MSU Libraries, including the Cyber Café, are open 148 out of 168 hours per week during fall and spring semesters. Hours and access to resources and services are available at www.lib.msu.edu.

Virtual University Design and Technology provides professional and innovative technology enhanced teaching and learning solutions in support of online and blended courses. Services to campus units include:

• assistance with design, development and offering of online and blended courses;
• customized designs to meet online instructional goals;
• creation of interactive learning objects;
• faculty development opportunities related to instructional technology and online pedagogy;
• consultation regarding development of web-based educational materials and online courses and programs.

The Michigan State University Archives, as directed by the Board of Trustees, is responsible for the management of the university’s records. The Archives provides record management services to all university offices, academic and non-academic, and is responsible for the appraisal of all university records as to their temporary or permanent historical, administrative, legal or fiscal value. The Archives also contains the papers of the faculty, staff, students and alumni, and is responsible for the preservation, control and access to all permanent records of the university.

The Historical Collections is a repository for the personal papers and documents of individual and social, civic, business, ethnic and religious organizations of local, national, and international scope, and includes materials from the early eighteenth century to the present.

The University Archives and Historical Collections maintains large image and sound collections, which document the Michigan State University campus, teaching, research, students, faculty, civic and business activities, and sites and events in the state, nation and world from the mid-nineteenth century to the present.

Materials in the University Archives and Historical Collections are available for use in the Archives by faculty, staff, students and the public. For further information, call (517) 355-2330, email msuarhc@msu.edu or visit www.archives.msu.edu.

Lou Anna K. Simon, President

Paulette Granberry Russell, Director and
Senior Advisor to the President for Diversity

The Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives serves as an executive-level focal point for the promotion of inclusion and diversity at Michigan State University. Through its leadership and support of university-wide initiatives on inclusive excellence, it strengthens and creates a supportive environment for the Michigan State University community, fostering inclusion, diversity, institutional equity, and intercultural understanding. It facilitates collaboration within and across units through assessment and education which promotes and enhances equity, respect, civility, and accountability.

The Office ensures University’s compliance with state and federal laws, and encourages best practices to promote a culture of inclusion. It is also responsible for investigating allegations of prohibited discrimination and harassment and provides training to recognize and prevent such incidents.

The Office serves as the primary resource to the president, provost and various other university officials on issues of diversity and inclusion. The coordination of all these endeavors leads to greater coherence and connectivity of inclusiveness at Michigan State University and beyond.

For more information, visit www.inclusion.msu.edu or call (517) 353-3922.

James Pivarnik, Research Integrity Officer

The Research Integrity Officer (RIO) is responsible for ensuring the MSU Procedures Concerning Allegations of Misconduct in Research and Creative Activities are carried out in an unbiased, confidential, and professional manner.  Research Misconduct includes fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, or any other practice, that seriously deviates from practices commonly accepted in the discipline or in the academic and research communities generally in proposing, performing, reviewing, or reporting research and creative activities.  Misconduct does not include honest error or honest differences in the interpretation or judgment of data.  Initial inquiries regarding potential research misconduct cases are held in strict confidence.  The RIO is located in 107 Olds Hall and can be reached at 517-432-6698 or by email at uiio@msu.edu.  Visit www.uiio.msu.edu for more information.

Alumni Lifelong Education, a division of the Michigan State University Alumni Association, seeks to incorporate Michigan State University’s Boldness by Design Initiatives that feature the guiding values of quality, inclusiveness, and connectivity by offering non-credit personal enrichment learning opportunities to all adults including Michigan State University alumni, friends, students, faculty, staff, and community members. Mutually beneficial relationships are created and nurtured between Michigan State University, the MSU Alumni Association, and program participants at local, national, and global levels. Alumni Lifelong Education administers the fall and spring semesters of Evening College, the annual Odyssey to Oxford lifelong education program at England’s University of Oxford, local retirement facility programs, a community fitness program for seniors, and the Evening College Endowment Fund.

Established in 1951, Evening College annually offers over 150 evening and weekend non-credit, university-level courses attracting over 2,000 adults from the mid-Michigan area. Courses, including online courses, are offered cooperatively with Michigan State University colleges, units, and off-campus organizations and are taught by Michigan State University faculty, graduate students, retirees, alumni, and guest lecturers. Most courses are held on campus with some offerings off-site including Grand Rapids,Detroit, and Battle Creek. Courses offer a stress-free learning environment without credits or exams.

The annual Odyssey to Oxford lifelong education program offers all adults a two-week residential study program at the University of Oxford, famous as a great center of learning since the 12th century. Participants enroll in non-credit personal enrichment courses taught by Oxford tutors and choose a course of study from topics such as British history, archaeology, theatre, art, or literature.

Alumni Lifelong Education is located in 57 Kellogg Center, (517) 355-4562, by email at evening_college@msu.edu or www.msualum.com/evecoll.

Stanley I. Soffin, Ombudsman

The University Ombudsman is a senior faculty member appointed by the President to help students resolve disputes in a confidential, impartial, and informal manner. After assessing the validity of each complaint, the Ombudsman advises students on possible remedies and, where indicated, actively assists students in securing a fair resolution of the matter. The Ombudsman also advises faculty, administrators, and staff of university policies and regulations that might guide their decisions. To support these efforts, the Ombudsman has broad powers of investigation, including direct and ready access to university officers and faculty and to official records. Communication with the Office of the Ombudsman does not put the University on notice. The Office of the Ombudsman was established in 1967 with the adoption of Academic Freedom for Students at Michigan State University. For further information, see www.msu.edu/unit/ombud, or e-mail ombud@msu.edu or call 517-353-8830.

Kim Wilcox, Provost

The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is the principal academic officer of the University with administrative responsibility for the colleges including the Michigan State University College of Law, academic programs, and all academic units including the Honors College, International Studies and Programs, and the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory.

The Office of the Provost has responsibility at the dean’s level for the Department of Aerospace Studies and the Department of Military Science.
The Office of the Provost also has administrative responsibility for the academic support units: Academic Human Resources,  Academic Services (including the Office of Admissions, the Office of Financial Aid, and the Office of the Registrar),  Academic Student Services and Multicultural Issues, Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives (jointly with the Vice President for Finance and Operations), Environmental Safety (jointly with the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies), Faculty and Organizational Development, The Graduate School, Human Health Affairs, Libraries, Computing and Technology (jointly with the Vice President for Finance and Operations), MSU Global, Olin Health Center, Office of Planning and Budgets (jointly with the Vice President for Finance and Operations), Student-Athlete Support Services, Undergraduate Education, University Outreach and Engagement (including the Wharton Center for Performing Arts and the MSU Museum), the University Physician (jointly with the Vice President for Finance and Operations), the Office of the Secretary for Academic Governance, and the Women's Resource Center (jointly with the Vice President for Finance and Operations, and the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services).

In addition, the Office has university–wide responsibility for summer session programs, university travel, commencement, faculty seminars, liaison with academic governance standing committees, and awards for faculty and graduate assistants.

The two departmental units and selected administrative units are described in the statements which follow.

Richard E. Shipman, DirectorT

The staff assists approximately 73 percent of Michigan State University students in meeting their educational costs by administering a comprehensive program of grants, loans, and work opportunities funded through federal, state, donor, and institutional resources. Eligibility for most of these aid programs is determined by a standardized needs test which is part of a general application process. Scholarships provided by private donors and academic departments are administered through this office.

Staff members advise students with long–term and short-term financial needs. In addition, they provide information and resources for faculty, staff, parents, high school counselors, and prospective students through workshops, visitations, and special presentations.

For information on available financial aid and application procedures, refer to the Office of Financial Aid's Web site at www.finaid.msu.edu.

Jackie Wright, Secretary

The Secretary for Academic Governance is secretary to the Academic Senate, Academic Council,  Executive Committee of Academic Council, Faculty Council, and Academic Assembly of the Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU) and serves as ex-officio member on the University Committee on Academic Governance.  The Office of the Secretary provides staff support to the Academic Council and its committees, supervises elections to the Academic Council and its committees, and provides assistance to colleges, departments, and schools in the preparation and interpretation of unit bylaws for academic governance. For more information, visit www.msu.edu/unit/acadgov.

James R. Pignataro, Director

Student-Athlete Support Services (SASS) helps student-athletes reach their full potential. Its mission is to provide each student-athlete with guidance, resources and support that will enhance their development both academically and personally.  This is accomplished within a proactive success driven environment which delivers quality academic services and diverse programming.

The SASS philosophy is to offer an academic support program, integrated with the university, that will assist all student-athletes with their transition into college. This all-encompassing support continues throughout each student-athlete’s collegiate career until the day he or she receives a diploma, obtains employment, or enters graduate school.

The SASS academic coordinators have expert knowledge in NCAA and Big Ten regulations and the Learning Specialist and subject tutors are trained. to work proactively with student-athletes from 25 varsity sports throughout their college careers.

SASS is housed in a nationally recognized facility, the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center, where a wide range of services and facilities are available, including academic counseling, computer labs with instruction, tutoring in all subject areas, career planning, community-service opportunities, personal-development workshops, and informing student-athletes about athletic eligibility, course registration, and current NCAA, Big Ten and university rules and regulations. Visit www.sass.msu.edu.

Patricia M. Lowrie, Director

The Women's Resource Center is the unit designated to provide a focal point for issues and ideas of importance to university women. The overall intent of the unit's educational and advocacy programming and resource coordination and referrals is to stimulate leadership and scholarship and to empower women faculty, students, and staff to participate actively in the life of the university, to utilize their skills and abilities fully, and to realize their aspirations both within the university community and society at–large. The Center, through the director, reports jointly to the Provost, the Vice President for Finance and Operations, and the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services.

For further information, call (517) 353-1635 or visit www.wrc.msu.edu or email wrc@msu.edu.

J. Ian Gray, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies

Research and creative activity are tightly woven into the culture at Michigan State University, part of the daily life of professors and students alike. What scientists learn in their labs becomes what they teach and transfer into the marketplace. Through explorations of education, business, and arts and humanities, researchers also explore humans as thinkers, artists, and citizens of a state and the world. The goal of such learning and creating is to develop knowledge that provides a deeper understanding of individuals, society, and the world and to help make the world a better place to live.

Every aspect of life is influenced by Michigan State University research, which addresses topics as diverse as growing and storing food; understanding, preventing, and treating diseases; and creating alternative fuels. Basic discoveries about the age of stars, the nature of atoms, and the structure of proteins will affect textbooks for generations to come.

Michigan State University’s research breakthroughs—from the cross-fertilization of corn in the 1870s and the homogenization of milk in the 1930s to one of the most successful anticancer drugs in the 1960s and a system to reduce the time needed to detect salmonella on fruits and vegetables in 2000—have improved life for people around the world. A new $550 million Facility for Rare Isotope Beams now under development will cement Michigan State University’s leading role in nuclear physics research and pave the way for important breakthroughs in medicine, materials research, national security, and physics.

Today, at the beginning of the 21st century, research is still the foundation of the intellectual enterprise at Michigan State University. Much of it cuts across traditional disciplines, and much of it reaches beyond the United States. In the land-grant problem-solving tradition, Michigan State University faculty, staff, and student researchers discover ways to improve life around the world.

The Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies stimulates, supports, and oversees policy relevant to research and creative activities. It enhances the safety of researchers and research subjects and assures compliance with research regulations by supporting and overseeing the university’s institutional review boards and the Office of Environmental Health and Safety in the Office of Regulatory Affairs. Through MSU Technologies, the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies facilitates access to university expertise by industry, government agencies, and others; administers patent and copyright policies, and facilitates the transfer of research results to industry.

Conflict of interest, research integrity, and export control and trade sanction policies are also administered by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies. In concert with the Provost, the office administers the Graduate School and is responsible for maintaining a healthy relationship between research and creative scholarship and the education of graduate students. The office also interacts with the Michigan State University Foundation on research-related matters.

Other units in the Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies include research development and proposal coordination, which provides information on sponsored research opportunities to all Michigan State University departments and colleges and manages the internal grants programs that help seed new research and scholarly projects in all disciplines; research facilitation and dissemination, which works with Michigan State University’s colleges to identify and encourage cross-disciplinary research; and the Research Technology Support Facility, which supports infrastructure for the MSU research enterprise by maintaining major analytical facilities that enable researchers to conduct advanced studies.

For further information, email vprgs@msu.edu, call 517-355-0306, or visit www.msu.edu/unit/vprgs.

The Animal Care Program provides support and oversight for all animal-related research, teaching, and outreach at Michigan State University. Services include ethical review of animal use; acquisition, husbandry, and veterinary care of animals; training and educational opportunities; and public outreach. Farm animal-related research and teaching activities and oversight are coordinated with the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee implements regulatory oversight requirements; Campus Animal Resources provides husbandry and veterinary care as well as technical services such as breeding programs and special care. The MSU Animal Care Program is accredited by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International.

For more information, contact Campus Animal Resources at 517-353-5064 or visit www.msu.edu/unit/ular or contact the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee at 517-432-4151, e-mail iacuc@msu.edu, or visit www.iacuc.msu.edu.

Kevin Eisenbeis, Director

The Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is responsible for management, oversight, and compliance of all University environmental health and safety programs. EHS serves as a proactive provider of regulatory guidance, education, training, and compliance assistance to the university community.

Through the Office of Radiation, Chemical and Biological Safety (ORCBS), EHS provides monitoring and training support to assure that all faculty, students, and staff work in a safe and productive environment. ORCBS is charged with communicating workplace risks to employees, evaluating appropriate protective equipment, and assisting units in designing safe and functional laboratories, buildings, and technical facilities. It works to assure that campus units meet or exceed their regulatory responsibilities relating to the use and management of hazardous materials.

EHS is charged with oversight and management of the university’s technical environmental regulatory responsibilities including the management of all major environmental permits and licenses such as air, wastewater, and storm water discharge permits.

EHS acts as the primary liaison between the university and federal, state, and local environmental health agencies, including Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

EHS is guided by advisory committees including the University Environmental Health and Safety Committee, the Executive Environmental Health and Safety Committee, the University Radiation Safety Committee, the Chemical Hygiene Committee, the Institutional Biosafety Committee, and several environmental advisory committees, among others.

Working with EHS, Michigan State University’s National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) became one of only a few university facilities with ISO 14001:2004 certification. Meeting that standard shows a commitment to minimizing harmful effects on the environment and to working for continual improvement of environmental performance. Michigan State University is pursuing certification for other facilities.

For more information call 517-355-0153 or visit www.orcbs.msu.edu.

Michigan State University’s human subject protection program is fully accredited by the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs. Accreditation assures research participants, whether they are part of a clinical trial or an opinion survey, that their safety and privacy are protected.

One institutional review board (IRB) evaluates research proposals in the biomedical and health sciences for compliance with regulatory requirements for human subjects. Another IRB reviews social science, behavioral, and education projects.

For more information call 517-355-2180 or visit www.humanresearch.msu.edu.

Michael Poterala, Executive Director and Assistant Vice President

Technologies is the multidisciplinary business unit that provides commercial talent and leadership to transfer Michigan State University’s discoveries and innovations to industry. It also links industrial research needs with Michigan State University experts and administers patents and copyright estates, including disclosures and copyright applications.

MSU Technologies assesses the commercial value of faculty’s innovations and markets the most promising to potential commercial partners throughout the world, including venture capital investors. Technologies available for licensing—ranging from preparing clays for use in nanocomposites to algorithm and circuit technology for high-speed communications—are listed on the MSU Technologies Web site. Each entry includes a brief description of the technology, its potential benefits and possible applications, patents that have been obtained, and contact information for learning more about the technology.

MSU Technologies also helps Michigan State University inventors start new businesses to develop the commercial potential of their discoveries. An internship program for students interested in entrepreneurship is under development.

To contact MSU Technologies, call 517-355-2186 or visit www.technologies.msu.edu.

J.R. Haywood, Interim Senior Assistant Vice President for Regulatory Affairs

The health and safety of individuals and care for the environment are important concerns for Michigan State University researchers. The Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) offers seminars, workshops, and other educational programs to help researchers assure safety in their labs, conduct research responsibly, and comply with relevant regulations. ORA also pursues accreditation and certifications to assure that programs relating to human and animal subjects and environmental health and safety not only meet but exceed federal regulations. These efforts aim to maintain Michigan State University’s respected compliance record.

For additional information, call 517-432-4500 or visit www.regaffairs.msu.edu.

Gabriel Dotto, Director

Michigan State University Press is the scholarly publishing arm of the University. The Press publishes books and journals in the humanities, liberal arts, and social sciences. The Editorial Review Committee and senior staff recommend titles and journals for publication.

MSU Press can be reached by calling 517-355-9543 or on the Web at www.msupress.msu.edu.

Lee N. June, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Services provides leadership and coordination for several offices, all of which collaborate with faculty and other university offices to promote active learning, improve the climate for learning, and increase student retention. Major attention is given to encouraging and supporting diversity while fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness for all students, faculty and staff. The Division of Student Affairs and Services staff work with students individually and in groups to assist them in achieving their educational and personal goals. Offices within the Division are listed below. For information call (517) 355-2264; visit 153 Student Services; or visit www.vps.msu.edu.

The Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender Resource Center (LBGT) leads and collaborates on University-wide initiatives that enhance campus climate for students who identify as lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender, and for allies and their communities. The center focuses on assisting students with addressing academic and personal concerns; supporting LBGT student organizations and leaders; providing inclusive, campus-wide education on LBGT identities and ally development; addressing LBGT issues in global and domestic contexts; providing consultation to faculty and staff on LBGT concerns; and leading research initiatives on LBGT campus climate and identities.

For more information, contact the LBGT at (517) 353-9520, Email lbgtrc@msu.edu, or visit www.lbgtrc.msu.edu.

The Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions (OCAT) constructs supportive social and educational communities that actively involve students in learning.  Specifically, OCAT prompts students’ involvement in broad-based university learning experiences (e.g., study-abroad, alternative spring break, internships, etc.), while also connecting them to campus resources, people, and programs that lead to deeper student learning and personal success.  In part, the Office accomplishes this mission by building critical alliances and links to academic units.  Additionally, OCAT helps students to understand themselves and others better through cultural and social activities.  Student-to-student interaction is the key to benefitting from diversity, and OCAT strives to bring together individuals as well as groups of students from diverse racial, ethnic, international, and domestic backgrounds for meaningful interactions. Moreover, OCAT supports individual students in their navigation of cross-cultural encounters, and in their own understanding, exploration and development of cultural identity.  OCAT employs multiple strategies to accomplish these goals. Among OCAT’s signature programs are Transition and Cultural Aides, Maximizing Academic Growth in College program (MAGIC), Council on Racial Ethnic Students program (CORES), and Internationalizing Student Life (ISL).  Visit www.ocat.msu.edu.

The Career Services Network helps students develop an understanding of their skills, interests and values; explore career pathways and options; learn strategies and techniques for navigating a search; acquire experience that builds abilities and tests options; and gain direct access to opportunities of choice.  Services provided by the network include:

1. One-on-one advising appointments with career advisors and consultants to assist students in self assessment, career exploration, decision-making, resumes and cover letters, job search strategies, interview preparation, and negotiating offers.
2. Workshops offered on topics ranging from resume writing and career exploration to networking and interviewing skills.  Custom workshops are provided for classes and student organizations.
3. Career fairs, including the two-day Career Gallery (business, science and technology), Graduate/Professional School Recruitment Fair, Agriculture Fair, Government/Nonprofit Fair, Environment and Natural Resources Fair, Summer Employment Fair, Teacher Recruitment Fair, the Diversity Fair and more.
4. On campus interviews with employers for entry-level and internship positions, with over 19,000 interviews conducted annually.
5. Career education events, such as alumni panels, networking sessions, and topical discussions on work-related issues (e.g., The Creative Arts Forum, Career Summit, and Speed Networking, etc.).
6. Career resources:  My Spartan Career, an interactive system that manages job, internship, and part-time campus employment listings, on-campus interviews, as well as a comprehensive calendar of career events and workshops.   CareerSearch, a database of over 4 million employers across the US and Canada; Uniworld, a database of international employers by country, WetFeet Insider Guides to industries and major recruiting companies; MSU Career Passport, a printed career guide for all students; and Web sites with information on services, events, guides, career news, and links to other useful resources.
7. Career assessment tools to help students align interests and preferences to job types and work environments: Strong Interest Inventory, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, and Bridges. Assessments are interpreted with a career advisor.

The Career Services Network is comprised of the following offices:

CAREER SERVICES, 113 Student Services Building, (517) 355-9510.  Focuses on career assessments, advising, workshops, Ph.D. career services, internship and student employment assistance.  www.careernetwork.msu.edu

CAREER SERVICES @ THE STADIUM, 290 Spartan Way, (517) 884-1300.  Provides career events management, on campus recruiting and interviewing services. www.careernetwork.msu.edu

LEAR CORPORATION CAREER SERVICES CENTER, 21 Eppley Center, (517) 432-0830. Provides career advising for students interested in business, on-campus recruiting and interviewing services, as well as new media career productions. www.bus.msu.edu/learcenter

FIELD CAREER CONSULTANTS. Provides career expertise and advising customized for students in the following colleges: 
    College of Agriculture and Natural Resources 
    College of Arts and Letters 
    College of Communication Arts and Sciences 
    College of Engineering 
    College of Natural Science 
    College of Social Science 
    James Madison College
    Visit www.careernetwork.msu.edu/college-centers

COLLEGIATE EMPLOYMENT RESEARCH INSTITUTE. The Institute conducts studies of post-graduate transitions into the workforce, employer hiring trends, and other career-related topics.  The Institute is best known for its annual publication, Recruiting Trends, which surveys the recruiting intentions of entry-level employers across the country. www.ceri.msu.edu.

ALUMNI CAREER SERVICES, MSU Alumni Association 242 Spartan Way, (517) 355-7698.  Provides career services and networking resources for alumni.  www.msu.alum.com/careers

The Counseling Center offers time-limited counseling to Michigan State University students who are in the pursuit of academic and personal goals. Programs include individual and group, personal or career counseling, testing, multicultural issues, substance abuse assessment, and sexual assault crisis and safety education. Any student registered for one or more credits is eligible for a consultation or assessment interview. As resources permit, additional services and/or referrals may be provided.

A campus location is available for service: 207 Student Services, 355-8270. The TTY number for the hearing and/or speech impaired is 353-7278. For information visit www.counseling.msu.edu.

Educational and Support Services provides  coordination for the division in areas ofuniversity-community initiatives, computer technology, and special projects. Staff collaborates with the Department of Educational Administration to support the Student Affairs Administration preparation program and serve as administrators for EAD 315 Student Leadership Training.  For information call (517) 353-6650 (TTY 353-6651); visit 162 Student Services; or visit www.ess.msu.edu.

This unit operates on the belief that individuals who participate in enjoyable sports activities during their college years will gain benefits for a healthy life. Three intramural buildings welcome men and women at all levels of ability to participate in over 25  organized intramural sports and over 35  student sports clubs. Michigan State University community members may choose from a diverse array of activities: from formal league and tournament play, to more leisurely and informal recreational activities and exercise and fitness programs. Persons with disabilities are urged to take advantage of those facilities accessible to them.

For information, refer to Intramural Sports and Recreative Facilities and Recreative Services in the General Information section of this catalog, call the Intramural Sports office at 355-5250,  or visit www.imsports.msu.edu.

Residence Life staff members are responsible for working with residents to create living-learning environments in the residence halls and university apartments.  The department provides live-in professional and student staff to assist residents with issues and concerns.  These staff members are community leaders and resource persons, and they plan and implement educational initiatives to support students in gaining skills in the areas of integrating in-class and out-of-class learning, multicultural development, community responsibility, character development, and personal well-being.  The Department of Residence Life is committed to providing students with opportunities to connect with one another in meaningful ways and reduce barriers to individual success by connecting residents to university resources.  Safe Place, a unit within Residence Life, is the domestic violence shelter located on a university campus.  For additional information, visit the Department of Residence Life Web site at www.reslife.msu.edu or call (517) 353-3780/e-mail at reslife@msu.edu.

Refer to the statement on Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities in the General Information section of this catalog for additional information.

The Student Life staff coordinates the programs described below, provides general assistance to students, and refers students to other offices or agencies as appropriate.  Except as noted, Student Life programs are located in the Student Life Center, 101 Student Services, (517) 355-8286 (TTY 355-2217). See also:  www.vps.msu.edu/SpLife/index.htm.

CAMPUS LIFE ORIENTATION. The staff coordinates and promotes academic, cultural, recreational, and personal programs that help ease the transition to the University during the Fall Welcome period.  Programs extend throughout a student’s first year on campus.

GREEK LIFE. The staff serves as liaisons between the University and the collegiate chapters, parents, alumni/ae, and (inter)national organizations to provide educational programs, services and resources to support the ideals of Greek Life.  Staff assist the three major governing boards that are individually responsible for managing and providing services to their member organizations.

INTERNATIONALIZING STUDENT LIFE. Staff work with faculty, staff, and student organizations to develop and coordinate programs that will allow students to: learn about cultures other than their own; develop cross-cultural communication skills; interact with faculty and students of diverse international backgrounds; and learn how international social, political, cultural and economic forces affect their lives.

JUDICIAL AFFAIRS. The staff provides direction and coordination for the development and administration of the student non-academic disciplinary process. Responsibilities include: advising two all-student judiciaries and two student-faculty judiciaries; coordinating the selection and training of judiciaries; and training and supporting those serving as administrative officers within the disciplinary process.  Staff provide alcohol and marijuana education seminars attended by approximately 800 students a year.

STUDENT LIFE CENTER and OFF-CAMPUS listing service. The staff provides information about university resources, student organizations, student events and off-campus living.  A computer listing of available rental units is available.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT and STUDENT ORGANIZATION ADVISING. Staff members assist student government leaders by advising, consulting, and serving as a resource on University policies and procedures.  Staff also register over 600 student organizations, as well as the programs and events sponsored by these groups, and provide consultation to enhance student group development.  Leadership training and development programs help those in student government and other organizations increase their effectiveness as leaders.

The Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence (SARV) Prevention Program promotes safety and improves quality of life by educating students on sexual assault and relationship violence, eliminating violence on campus, empowering students to become advocates for a non-violent community and positively affecting social change.  Through workshops conducted by peer educators the program offers a forum for students to engage in conversation and become educated about college social lifeand become active members in keeping the Michigan State community safe. 

The Upward Bound Program is a federally funded program designed to motivate low–income high school students with academic potential to pursue post–secondary education. The program is also targeted toward students whose parents do not have bachelor's degrees. Students are admitted to the program on the basis of their school performance, recommendations of teachers and counselors, and a personal interview.

The program provides services such as personal counseling; instruction in careers, communication skills, mathematics, science, and foreign language; tutoring; field trips; and numerous extra–curricular activities. These services are provided during the intensive six–week residential component of the program and in the academic year follow–up component. Instruction and tutorial assistance are provided by secondary school teachers, University faculty, and graduate and undergraduate students.

College preparation activities for high-school seniors include college tours, admission and financial aid workshops, and opportunities to hear a variety of speakers who talk about adjusting to life in college, personal finances, choosing a major, orientation testing, and other topics of interest to prospective undergraduates.

The Upward Bound Program office is located in Room 192 Ernst Bessey Hall (telephone 353–6701).

In conjunction with the Ingham Intermediate School District and with funding support from private and regional agencies, Michigan State University offers an array of programs designed for pre-college students identified through a variety of measures as academically gifted and talented. The Cooperative Highly Accelerated Mathematics Program (CHAMP), and the Intensive Studies in Humanities, Arts, Language, and Literatures ( ISHALL), are offered during the academic year on the Michigan State University campus. Summer programs address the needs of students in grades 4 through 12. Many of the elementary and middle school programs emphasize development of skills in mathematics and the sciences. High school summer programs offer travel abroad, a forensic science residential program, and an opportunity to earn Michigan State University credits while enrolled in Honors level courses. For additional information, visit www.gifted.msu.edu.