Michigan State will provide exemplary stewardship of institutional resources to foster the long-term sustainability of education, research and outreach programs, while pursuing effective and efficient financial, operational and environmental practices.
As we move toward 2030, we are committed to becoming a more contemporary institution, achieving greater effectiveness through next-generation operations and organizational alignment. As we work to ensure that our decisions today lay the foundation for a better, more resilient future for the university and the world around us, we integrate environmental, social and fiscal responsibility to steward university resources, support campus and the environment, and take care of people — students, employees and our communities.
As we pursue operational practices grounded in sound stewardship, efficiency and sustainability, we affirm that those efforts should not compromise the quality, safety or accessibility of Michigan State and its assets. We also acknowledge that we must do all we can within our means to deliver positive, supportive, engaging and enriching living, working, learning and recreational environments and experiences that our students, faculty and staff require to thrive and succeed. Our unique physical assets, extensive natural areas and expansive infrastructure create unparalleled opportunities to use the campus as a living laboratory for teaching, research and innovation that support our mission and enrich our community.
Support from our alumni and friends is vital to staying at the forefront of excellence, and, crucially, it increases access to an MSU education. More than 1 million alumni, friends, and organizations are meaningfully connected to MSU — a powerful network that spans individuals, corporations, foundations and more.
MSU’s supporters provide internships and hire graduates, serve as guest speakers and advise on class projects, help recruit new students, serve their communities under the Spartan banner and advocate across the globe for issues important to our students and the future of leading research universities and higher education. As we embark on our $4 billion comprehensive campaign — Uncommon Will, Far Better World — we will engage our alumni and friends to help advance the excellence that continually increases the value of an MSU degree.
For many, athletic events are their first experience with MSU and remain a source of pride and connection. Our visibility on the national stage through Spartan Athletics is an important part of the university’s identity that requires thoughtful stewardship in a changing landscape. We will engage in comprehensive planning for the athletics department to fully support the academic and athletic success of our student-athletes, optimize and enhance revenue generation and improve the fan and community experience.
To ensure a sustainable future and meet the needs of current and future students and stakeholders, we must continually adapt and evolve, finding new ways to deliver education, conduct research and engage with communities, locally and across the globe. Our planning will consider our increasingly digital, connected world and the impact and opportunities this brings.
Our sustainability journey continues, building on important work like the 2012 Energy Transition Plan, which laid the groundwork for the strategies we pursue today. Our efforts have been recognized nationally and internationally, and our success reflects Spartans who drive innovation, foster collaboration and inspire the next generation to tackle the world’s most pressing problems. As we renew our long-term goals, we are building on a strong foundation and deepening our commitment to stewardship and sustainability to shape a brighter future at MSU and beyond.
Implement a long-term, comprehensive financial model and budget process that aligns resources with strategic priorities, ensures university-wide effectiveness and efficiency, and sustains, expands and diversifies revenue sources
Strategies/Actions
Implement Vision 2050: An integrated facilities and land-use plan adopted by the Board of Trustees in 2023
Strategies/Actions
Embed sustainability into institutional culture and move toward carbon neutrality by 2050, balancing fiscal, environmental and social considerations
Strategies/Actions
Advance sustainable Information Technology (IT) services to power the academic enterprise, Spartan innovation and sustainable business operations through enhanced access to information, operational technologies and strategic infrastructure
Strategies/Actions