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Michigan ag groups want a voice in MSU leadership search

Agricultural groups want Michigan State University to reevaluate its selection committee for the institution’s next president.

Michigan Agri-Business Association President Chuck Lippstreu tells Brownfield excluding agricultural voices could have far-reaching impacts.

“Agriculture is by some measures the second largest driver of Michigan’s economy,” he points out.  “One in four people in our state work in some way in the food or agricultural sectors, and MSU plays a critical role in making sure that we can have a successful agriculture sector in Michigan.”

Lippstreu says having zero representation sends a clear message to the industry that the Trustees are not aware of or don’t appreciate the longstanding partnership between the university and the agricultural community.

Michigan Farm Bureau is also disappointed. President Carl Bednarski says the partnership between Michigan’s agricultural community and MSU spans generations and should remain a strong focus in the search for the next president.

They are asking the MSU board to take immediate action and reconsider the 25-member search committee announced this week.