MSU Today with Russ White

Kevin M. Guskiewicz, an accomplished neuroscientist, sports medicine researcher and academic leader, has been named the 22nd president of Michigan State University.

The Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Guskiewicz, the 12th chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, during a special board meeting on Dec. 8. He will begin his term on March 4, 2024.

Conversation Highlights:

(0:56) – “I’m a servant leader. I like to bring people together. Leadership is about gathering people and getting them aligned toward a common goal.”

(1:35) – Do you have any experience or past interactions with MSU and/or the state of Michigan?

(2:08) - Tell us more about your research interests. When and why did you develop this interest? What have been some of your findings that have made it to places like the NFL?

(3:14) - The board also approved your appointment as a professor with tenure in the College of Education’s Department of Kinesiology. Do you hope to be able to continue your research while president?

(3:45) - What attracted you to the presidency of MSU?

(4:15) – Have you had a chance to review MSU Strategic Plan 2030?

(4:44) – What is your philosophy on fundraising and donor/alumni engagement?

(5:22) – What are some of your short-term goals?

(6:37) – What are challenges and opportunities ahead for MSU and the “transformative power” of higher education?

(7:37) – There’s a lot going in college athletics, too. What are challenges and opportunities there?

(8:32) – What are your final thoughts for Spartan Nation as we await your arrival March 4?

Listen to “MSU Today with Russ White” on the radio and through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your shows.

Photo credit: Nick Schrader, University Communications 

Creators & Guests

Host
Russ White
I host and produce MSU Today for News/Talk 760 @wjrradio and @MichiganStateU's @NPR affiliate @WKAR News/Talk 102.3 FM and AM 870.

What is MSU Today with Russ White?

MSU Today is a lively look at Michigan State University-related people, places, events and attitudes put into focus by Russ White. The show airs Saturdays at 5 P.M. and Sundays at 5 A.M. on 102.3 FM and AM 870 WKAR, and 8 P.M. on AM 760 WJR.