By Andi Anderson
The MSU Extension and AgBioResearch State Advisory Council has been recognized with the Key Partner Award for its outstanding contributions to supporting communities, strengthening partnerships, and advancing Extension programs across Michigan.
The annual award honors individuals and organizations that make significant contributions to the development, improvement, and promotion of Extension programs. The recognition highlights the council’s long-standing commitment to the land-grant university mission and its role in connecting Michigan communities with valuable educational and research-based resources.
Patrick Cudney, MSU Extension’s director of government and stakeholder relations, accepted the award on behalf of the council during the Fall Extension Conference held at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center in East Lansing, Michigan.
The 26-member State Advisory Council has served as a vital link between Michigan State University and communities throughout the state since 1998. Council members volunteer their time to promote the impact of Extension and AgBioResearch programs while building relationships with legislators, community leaders, industry representatives, and other stakeholders.
According to Deanna East, associate director for MSU Extension, the council plays an important role in sharing the university’s story and demonstrating the value of Extension programs to communities across Michigan. “There is tremendous value in having people outside the university tell our story,” East said. “They can speak authentically about what they see happening in their communities and even in the industries that they work in]. And that brings a level of credibility and connection that we simply can't create on our own.”
The council's efforts extend beyond communication and outreach. One of its major contributions has been advocating for strategic investments that support agriculture, environmental stewardship, economic development, and community growth throughout the state.
Council engagement with policymakers and stakeholders helped secure $53 million in state capital improvement funding for the new MSU Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Facility and the Plant Sciences Greenhouse Complex. These investments are expected to strengthen research capabilities, support workforce development, enhance student learning opportunities, and encourage innovation within Michigan agriculture.
Highlighting the council’s impact, East stated, “I think the advisory council's greatest contribution is the trust and relationships they built over time. They help connect our work to lived experiences of people across Michigan, and it helps us remain responsive, and it helps us to truly understand the needs of the communities that we serve.”
She further added, “They volunteer their time because they believe in what MSU Extension and AgBioResearch can do for Michigan. And their advocacy and their partnership really have made a lasting difference.”
Through ongoing collaboration with university leadership, faculty, and staff, the State Advisory Council continues to identify emerging priorities, strengthen partnerships, and promote support for programs that improve the quality of life for Michigan residents. The Key Partner Award recognizes the council’s lasting impact and its dedication to ensuring that research, education, and outreach efforts continue to serve communities across the state.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education