CANR Internal Message from the Dean - Jan. 17, 2019

A message from CANR dean Ron Hendrick.

You may already be aware that Interim President Engler resigned from his post on Jan. 16, 2019. Today, the MSU Board of Trustees accepted his resignation, made it immediate and appointed Satish Udpa, Ph.D., acting president of MSU. 

A number of important things were accomplished during Mr. Engler’s time as interim president, as noted in his resignation letter. Some were initiated under him and others of which had been underway or in development when he arrived. 

All MSU deans signed a letter expressing our lack of support for Mr. Engler’s leadership. The University was not making progress on the necessary things related to culture change, such as:

  • Making MSU a more transparent and open environment; ensuring people aren’t needlessly disenfranchised; and promoting greater inclusivity and overall civility. That work is being done in colleges and administrative units, but it needs strong leadership from the very top.
  • Putting a human – and humane – face to the university’s response to the Nassar crisis. Our humanity has been in woefully short supply since the beginning of the crisis. 

For me, this transition is less about Mr. Engler’s departure than it is about the beginning of Dr. Udpa’s tenure as acting president. He is a superb choice; trustworthy, pragmatic, compassionate and respected across campus. He understands what needs to be done, and how to do it. I believe he will have broad support and ensure that we make progress on those cultural issues as we prepare for the next president. 

MSU is a different place than it was a year ago. I know that you will continue your efforts to improve MSU’s culture and community. 

Sincerely, 

Ron Hendrick
Professor and Dean
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Michigan State University

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