College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Forestry

Dear MSU Forestry Alumni and Friends,

As a profession, forestry adheres to the core principles of making a difference in people's lives and caring for the natural environment. These values inspire our students and alumni, who go on to do meaningful, impactful work. It’s these values that draw many to the profession.

Nested within these professional values, the work of MSU Forestry goes even deeper. We aspire to provide transformational experiences for our students and equip them with the skills for meaningful, rewarding careers. We’re inspired by the many alumni who speak to the lasting impact of their time at MSU Forestry. You can read through alum updates in this issue for a small sampling (page 4).

Moreover, current student Rachel Adams (page 6) tells a compelling story about how her decision to pursue a B.S. in Forestry at MSU has completely changed the direction of her life in the best ways imaginable. And Dave Skole’s (page 7) reflections on teaching – preparing students with the skills to take on meaningful work, immersing them in field experiences, and connecting classroom concepts to real issues – demonstrate the transformative nature of good teaching. Rachel Adams’ and Dave Skole’s words illustrate how MSU Forestry makes a difference in people's lives at a very personal level. We also strive to advance forestry knowledge that makes a difference in caring for forests and all the ecosystem services that they provide.

There are many facets to creating an environment that supports transformative learning, research, and outreach. I’d like to highlight just a few: outstanding faculty, effective administrative staff, and a strong sense of community. Our faculty are exceptional – intellectual leaders in their fields, positively impacting the practice of forestry and at the same time deeply dedicated to educating the next generation of forestry professionals. Raju Pokharel (page 5) embodies this spirit, demonstrated by his recent award from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources: CANR Early Career Researcher Award and Global Scholar in Research. Our top-notch administrative team is unmatched, as shown by CANR’s recognition of Katie James (Research and Graduate Program Administrator) through the CANR Excellence in Research Performance and Support Award (page 5).

A strong sense of community has long characterized MSU Forestry – a tradition that continues today. For example, student-to-student learning and friendships formed through Forestry Club are an important part of our Department and the student experience. Recently, the Club participated in the Michigan SAF meeting, followed by a mini-conclave with students from Michigan Tech, and then participation in a timbersports demonstration at the Jack Pine Lumberjack Show in Mackinaw City (page 8). These shared experiences help strengthen the bonds that define our community.

Please reach out and share your story on how MSU Forestry has impacted your life. We love hearing from our alumni and value staying connected as a community. Communication with alumni and friends is critically important to MSU Forestry’s ability to continue our impactful work. Thanks for your continued support!

Go Green!

Rich