MSU Cultural Engagement Council Represents Best of Campus Cultural Resources
MSU Cultural Engagement Council Participating Units
- MSU Alumni Association
- University Archives & Historical Collections
- Department of Art, Art History, and Design
- College of Arts & Letters
- Breslin Student Events Center
- College of Music
- College of Communication Arts and Sciences
- International Studies and Programs
- Kresge Art Museum at MSU
- MSU Libraries
- MSU Museum
- MSU Press
- Residential College in Arts and Humanities
- Department of Theatre
- Wharton Center for Performing Arts
- WKAR-Public Broadcasting Services
In partnership with:
- Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives
- Office of the Provost
- University Outreach and Engagement
- Division of Student Affairs & Services
- Division of University Relations
- Arts Council of Greater Lansing
The MSU Cultural Engagement Council brings together more than 20 units on campus and the Arts Council of Greater Lansing to showcase arts and culture at Michigan State University and to collaborate with researchers and partners on community initiatives. The Council works to increase the visibility of campus cultural resources and facilitate expanded cultural engagement across Michigan, nationally, and internationally.
The Tree of Life from The Lion King second national tour. ©Disney.
Every year, MSU offers a wide array of informative and entertaining cultural events, including performances, exhibitions, lectures, programs, and conferences, which are available not only to students and local residents but also to TV and Internet viewers all over the world. Other resources include MSU's public gardens, museums and libraries, musical and theatrical venues, public art, public broadcasting, and historical sites.
"If Michigan is going to reinvent itself out of this economic crisis, we must attend to the role of arts and crafts as generators of innovation."
Rex LaMore
In recent years, policy makers and economic developers have recognized that cultural development is an essential component in creating vibrant communities. A study conducted by researchers at MSU's Center for Community and Economic Development found that the funding of arts and crafts provides critical support to Michigan's economic transformation. The study found that artistic activities are closely related to success of the scientists, engineers, and other innovators who create new companies and inventions that stimulate the economy.
In 2007-2008, MSU sponsored The Year of Arts and Culture, comprising activities that involved multiple disciplines, aligning with local economic development efforts, enriching student experiences, and engaging community residents. More recent collaborations between MSU, the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Lansing State Journal have explored how arts and culture can be applied as a strategy for regional economic development.
As President Lou Anna K. Simon has said, "Michigan State University is at the center of energizing cultural entrepreneurship and development in Michigan's Capital Region and beyond." Learn more at artsandculture.msu.edu.
- Lion King Photograph courtesy of Jean Marcus
