Celebration of Giving

2020 COVID-19 RESPONSE

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our lives in ways none of us could have imagined. When we were instructed to work from home and move our programs online last March, many of us suspected we would be looking at an extended timeframe. We moved swiftly and as much as we could online — classes, meetings, exams, extension programs, research field days, social events and commencements.

This is our opportunity to say thank you for the support you have offered us in so many ways. If you’ve sent a kind note or thought our way, given or documented a gift or responded to a call for assistance — thank you.

Your support has helped bridge the gaps our students faced and showed them that they have a strong Spartan network, cheering them on, wanting them to succeed. All of you are our most steadfast supporters. Thank you for everything, especially in these unprecedented times.

We want to provide a glimpse into how we persevered through the past year. We've featured a few videos — to help describe that progress.

CANR
Combatting COVID-19

A glimpse into how CANR persevered through the past year in our teaching, outreach and research.

STUDENTS
Spartans showing resilience

To say that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted our students equally across the board wouldn’t acknowledge all the different places and spaces from which they come. Ultimately, our students and faculty showed resilience because they are indeed Spartans.

OUTREACH
Together we will help individuals, communitites and businesses

In the beginning days of the COVID-19 pandemic, MSU Extension educators quickly pivoted programming online. When schools were closed and parents were looking for things for their children to do, MSU Extension was there to offer advice and provide insightful assistance. Educators and staff assembled online resources for parents, communities, and families. They recorded videos about how to properly disinfect homes, how to store food and how to be mentally mindful. In that first month or so, website visits increased by 30 percent; and course participation increase tenfold.

RESEARCH
Continuing our commitment

While our students and faculty could learn and teach from home, our farm managers and workers did not have this option. Our priority was the health and well-being of our people and our commitment to the growers and producers of Michigan, who rely on our work as research and development.

RESEARCH
Together we will conquer 2021

Spartans Will continue to teach, work and connect with others around the world. Together we will conquer 2021.

EARLY DETECTION
When there’s a need, there’s a Spartan

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is home to many Spartans who found – and are still finding – ways to help during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drs. Jade Mitchell and Laura Bix share some of their experiences.