U.S. Under Secretary of Education Visits Michigan State University to Discuss Future of Higher Education
Under Secretary James Kvaal discusses student success, diversity, and financial aid initiatives during his visit to Michigan State University, as part of a national higher education listening tour.
East Lansing, MI — Michigan State University (MSU) welcomed U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal to its campus on September 4 as part of a nationwide higher education listening tour. Kvaal, who leads the Department of Education’s work on student financial aid, career, and adult education, toured MSU’s cutting-edge facilities and engaged with leaders to discuss the university’s role in shaping the future of higher education.
During his visit, Kvaal explored two of MSU’s flagship facilities — the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) and the STEM Teaching and Learning Facility — which are pivotal to the university’s mission of advancing research and education. These facilities highlight MSU’s leadership in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and research.
Kvaal also met with MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., and university leaders to discuss key components of the MSU 2030 Strategic Plan. The discussions focused on student retention and success, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), increasing financial aid options, and strategies to support students beyond graduation.
Among the initiatives discussed were:
- Underserved students in STEM: Highlighting the Alliance for Graduate Education and the Professoriate program, which provides support for underrepresented students in STEM fields.
- Spartan Tuition Advantage: A financial aid program aimed at assisting eligible Michigan students in accessing higher education.
- Diversity Research Network: An initiative to increase funding opportunities for faculty from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Neighborhood Resource Center: A resource that works to close achievement gaps for students from underserved communities.
- College Pathways Programs: Programs like the Detroit College Promise, which provide pathways for underserved students to pursue higher education.
- College Assistance Migrant Program: A program dedicated to supporting students from migrant and seasonal farmworker backgrounds.
Kvaal’s visit concluded with a roundtable discussion featuring undergraduate and graduate students who have benefited from various MSU programs, including TRIO, Pell Grant recipients, first-generation students, and students from underrepresented communities. The students shared their personal experiences, representing a wide array of disciplines and communities across Michigan and the U.S.
Under Secretary Kvaal’s visit is part of an ongoing effort to engage with universities nationwide, emphasizing the importance of building an education system that supports students from all backgrounds, not only during their studies but also in their careers after graduation. His discussions at MSU provided valuable insights into how institutions like MSU can play a vital role in shaping policies that enhance student success and equity in higher education.
