MSU President Stanley reflects on “a very successful academic year“ as summer begins

<p>MSU brought a very successful academic year to a close this month with graduation ceremonies honoring 6,917 undergraduate degree earners and 2,684 advanced degree recipients. What struck you and will stay with you about this spring’s ceremonies?</p><p>“It was wonderful to be in person. We had the opportunity because of low COVID transmission to be without masks for people who didn't want a mask, and so that was great. There was really a sense of being together that we haven't had in prior ceremonies. That made it very exciting, and the turnout was phenomenal. </p><p>“<a href="https://twitter.com/steve21smith">Steve Smith</a> gave <a href="https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2022/podcast-steve-smith-convocation-speech">a remarkable speech</a> where he talked about how much Michigan State University has meant to him. He talked about his relationship with his mother and the transformational gifts he's given to the university to help student athletes. Even though Steve played against people like Michael Jordan, he said it's not about beating others so much; it's about pushing yourself to be the best you can be. That was a great message for our graduates.”</p><p>In addition to celebrating our graduates' accomplishments, you helped honor outstanding faculty and academic staff this month at the annual <a href="https://msutoday.msu.edu/news/2022/msu-all-university-awards-honor-outstanding-faculty-and-staff">All-University Awards</a> Convocation and support staff in the annual <a href="https://sourcelive.hr.msu.edu/?p=16499">Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff and Ruth Jameson Above and Beyond Awards</a> presentations. You always say MSU's people are the heart and soul of the university.</p><p>“Faculty and staff achievement and development <a href="https://share.transistor.fm/s/a68e2821">are key to us</a>; we want our faculty and staff to reach their full potential. And then recognizing the extraordinary work they do is an important part of our strategic plan. These ceremonies are our chance to say thank you and recogn