Department of Entomology Funding Priorities

Endowed Chair in Systematics and Biodiversity Funding to support an endowed chair for a Distinguished Insect Systematist, preferably whose area of expertise is parasitic Hymenoptera used in biocontrol. This has become a critically important area with the Food Quality Protection Act and the loss of many insecticides. The distinguished professor would teach Arthropod Systematics and Biodiversity related courses, and do research on parasitic Hymenoptera where we have an outstanding collection.

Improvement of the Albert J. Cook Arthropod Research CollectionThe current facilities housing the Collection are inadequate for continued long-term maintenance and accessibility by researchers. Insect storage cabinets and drawers need to be upgraded to pest-proof standards, and additional storage space is required for several large and significant research collections that have been willed to us or which will be donated to us in the near future. A freezer room is needed for non-chemical pest control by rotating the insect drawers through the freezer. These needs can best be addressed by renovation of and/or adding to the existing space and replacement of half of the existing insect storage cabinets and drawers. Additional space may become available in the Natural Science building in the near future.

Gordon E. Guyer Graduate Student EndowmentAn endowed graduate student fellowship in aquatic/environmental entomology in Dr. Guyer's name recognizes his close connection with aquatic entomology and environmental issues and the importance of education for future programs in conservation, natural resources and water quality.

Endowed distinguished visiting professorshipsOne or more semesters on campus by professors who have distinguished themselves in the discipline worldwide. This will enable faculty and students to interact and collaborate with entomologists and nematologists outside of MSU in cutting-edge research and scholarship.

Bug House Education CenterThe goal of the Bug House Education Center is to introduce children of all ages to the world of insects. The Center works closely with public school districts and approximately 12,000 individuals visit the current facility on an annual basis. It is important for the new Center to be an integral component of the MSU Visitors Center.

Butterfly HouseThe MSU Butterfly House is one of the most popular exhibits at MSU. It is designed to show how live insects interact with their environment. It is essential that this facility be maintained as part of the MSU Visitors Center.

K-12 outreach endowmentA small investment in K-12 students and teachers will generate interest in our discipline that will translate into more college students taking entomology and related courses in the future. Funds to be used for scholarships to attend our summer outreach programs and for K-12 teachers to take courses offered during the summer. We see this as an integral part of the MSU Visitor Center.