Frequently Asked Questions

 

About the Tour

The tour intends to provide an opportunity for MSU's president, faculty and administrators to touch down in Michigan communities that Spartan students and alumni call home. Participants will strengthen community ties and highlight the university's contributions and initiatives as well as deepen connections with colleagues as they travel together and learn about how they can have an even greater impact on the state.

The bus tour will accommodate about 60 participants.

Tour stops for the fall 2025 Regional Route were selected to represent a diverse cross-section of the Upper Peninsula, and to ensure participants connect with a broad range of communities and stakeholders. Future tours will highlight other areas in both the upper and lower peninsulas of the state.

MSU is Michigan’s state university, and the Spartan Bus Tour program intends to visit as much of it as possible! Locations may eventually overlap to some degree, but we will always look for new and interesting sites wherever we visit. MSU impacts, and is impacted by, the entire state and all of its people, so there will always be something new to explore.

For Participants

Participants will be chosen based on their ability to contribute meaningfully to the tour’s objectives, such as engaging with community members, showcasing MSU’s strengths and considering ways to build new collaborative relationships. Selection will prioritize those who have demonstrated a commitment to outreach and engaged research.

Faculty and administrators are expected to join the tour at all stops, engage with community members, share their expertise and experiences, and participate in events.

The tour provides an opportunity to connect with communities; network with stakeholders; gain insight into the state's history, demographics and strengths; and identify opportunities for research collaboration.
Yes. Transportation, meals, site entry fees and accommodation will be provided for all participants.
Participants will be responsible for souvenirs and other incidental costs, including hotel charges beyond the room rate.

Yes, participants are required to take part in the entire tour, from 7 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19 through 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, as well as orientation on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Applications will be accepted between July 7 and Sept. 3, 2025. Faculty and administrators who apply for the bus tour will be notified of their status the week of Sept. 15, 2025.