October Events Round-Up

October Events Round-Up

If you and your family are looking for upcoming events to celebrate the beginning of the fall season, you’ve come to the right place. October holds many event opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required.

Campus Events

Benefits Open Enrollment – MSU Benefits Open Enrollment is October 1-31. Open Enrollment is your annual opportunity to review your coverage options and ensure you have the benefits that are best for you and your family as you head into the new year. Learn more on the HR Website and plan to visit the Benefits Fair on October 3 or one of the several Site Labs available throughout October.

October 2 –  Drawing Marathon: From 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., stop by this annual non-stop drawing event at the MSU Broad Art Museum with the MSU Department of Art, Art History, and Design. All skill levels and ages are welcome, and registration is encouraged for this free event. 

October 13thBlack Botany Weeds Tour: Join Angelica Bajos, Community and Sustainability Coordinator of the MSU Beal Botanical Garden for a deep-dive into the botanical exhibit, Complex Dreams. From 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., learn what weeds can tell us about our perspective on the values of plants and people as a part of the deep-rooted collaboration where art and plants intertwine. Learn more and be sure to register for this free event.

October 14th – 19thMSU Homecoming: MSU will celebrate Homecoming 2024 with many activities for students, staff, alumni and friends of the university. This year’s theme is “Welcome Home, Spartans” to recognize that no matter where you come from, you have a home within the Spartan Community. The Homecoming parade is October 18th at 6:00 p.m., and the football game at Spartan Stadium against the University of Iowa Hawkeyes is Saturday October 19th. Single-game tickets are available for purchase on the MSU Athletics Website. There are also volunteer opportunities for those 18 and older, so be sure to register by October 3rd if you are interested in volunteering or looking to be in the parade!  

Learning Opportunities

October 15th Cultural Competency: MSU prides itself on leading inclusivity and promoting full participation and a sense of belonging for all employees and staff. Join us in building cultural awareness and inclusivity skills that will last a lifetime, and learn about intent vs. impact, how to de-escalate tension, and identify self-awareness in the workplace. Enroll through EBS and join us from 1:00 pm. to 3:30 p.m. at the in-person class in the MSU HR building… 

October 3rd, 17th, & 31stImplicit Bias Certificate Series: This Implicit Bias Series allows participants to examine the different factors of implicit bias through a series of models. Module one will go over identity, and discuss how we view the world. Module two will cover microaggressions, implicit bias, explicit bias and how we can address bias. Module three addresses systemic race in the U.S. context, and modules four and five discuss inclusive environments and taking action. Register for this three part course through EBS. 

Family – Friendly Events

October 5thFamily Day: FLY: The first Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum, and this month we are inviting you to make creative connections with our exhibits through a hands-on experience with interactive family fun. Explore Complex Dreams, an exhibit that places the experience of young Black girlhood center stage while forwarding a refreshing and resilient view of the power of Black women today. Registration for this free event is highly encouraged. 

October 6thTotally Rad Vintage Festival: Join us at the Lansing Center from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to enter a time warp into the 80s, 90s and 2000s through vintage clothes. There will be vendors selling clothes, records, home goods, and more, and is open to all ages. There will be a free-play vintage arcade set up, Rad Relic Museum, nostalgic photo ops to fully immerse yourself into the recreated scenes of the 80s and 90s. Kids under 12 enter free, and you can visit our website for tickets and more information. 

October 25thTrick or Treat on the Square: Save the date for Downtown Lansing’s annual Trick or Treat on the Square Event on Friday, October 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Local businesses will be passing out sweets, hosting fun games, and you will have the chance to get creative with Halloween crafts and activities. Be sure to dress up in your best costume and bring your candy bag!

October 1-31st – Michigan’s 4-H Children’s Garden Undersea Exhibit: If you are looking for something fun to do with your family, you should stop by the 4-H Children’s Garden to experience the Undersea Exhibit brought on by MSU AgeAlive! The gardens are open sunup to sundown until October 31st with free admission. Take a look at our website for more information on the 4-H Gardens and the exhibit. 

Farmers Markets Farmer’s markets are beloved events in many local communities allowing us an opportunity to support local farmers and small businesses and enjoy delicious produce, baked goods, and even homemade crafts and personal care items. Many Greater Lansing communities offer seasonal farmer’s markets. Find one near you at https://mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market/

Job of The Week: Assistant Director of Annual Giving

This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting as an Assistant Director of Annual Giving for University Advancement (job posting 992411). University Advancement is seeking an experienced assistant director, so if you are interested in fundraising for the Cultural Arts including the Beal Botanical Gardens, MSU Broad Art Museum, and the MSU Museum, this may be the role for you! 

University Advancement looks to the future with optimism and a growth mindset, and their mission is to advance the Spartan impact. By securing support through talent, service, gifts, advocacy and more, University Advancement’s main goal is to create long-lasting connections with the Spartan community, building a better tomorrow for MSU. 

In this position, you would report to the Senior Director of Development and work actively with University Advancement’s Annual Giving Team and Cultural Arts Unit to collaborate on the best strategies. You will maintain and develop annual giving membership plans that ensures a positive donor experience while supporting year-over-year fundraising growth. Some tasks include overseeing event follow-up to promote giving, creating digital and print annual giving campaigns to encourage new donors, and implementing member renewal processes. You will work in partnership with the UA events team to create special fundraising events, leverage existing campus-wide events to encourage donors, and oversee donor recognition events and gifts. 

The education, experience and skills desired for this role include a degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing/Business, and one to three years of previous experience in professional fundraising, public relations, marketing, or a related field. You should have great organizational and customer service skills, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to work effectively in a complex higher education system. This role also may require some in and out-of-state travel, as well as some evenings and weekend requirements throughout the year. 

Learn more about University Advancement here. To learn more about this position or if you are interested in applying online, visit the Careers @ MSU website for more information. Applications require a resume and cover letter, and should be submitted by October 24th. 

Job of The Week: Greenhouse Coordinator

This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting as a Greenhouse Coordinator for MSU AgBioResearch (job posting 985817). MSU AgBioResearch is seeking an experienced professional to play a huge role in the Plant Science Research Greenhouse at Michigan State University. If you are interested in overseeing the care and maintenance of greenhouse facilities, this may be the role for you!

MSU AgBioResearch engages in innovative and leading-edge research that generates economic prosperity, sustains natural resources, and enhances the quality of life not only in Michigan, but around the world. With approximately 300 researchers from 6 colleges across MSU, AgBioResearch prioritizes food safety and security, climate adaptation, water conservation, resilient and profitable agriculture and natural resource systems, and more. 

Michigan State University greenhouses are home to over 100,000 square feet of research space and serve over 70 faculty across eight different academic departments at MSU. In this role, you would oversee all maintenance at the greenhouses and advise researchers on the use of greenhouse facilities and plant care. The MSU AgBioResearch and MSU Extension work together to make discoveries in the area of genomics, breeding, pest management, and disease management, as well as reaching out to growers to learn about the most recent findings. This would be another part to oversee in your role of Greenhouse Coordinator. 

The education, experience and skills desired for this role include a four-year degree in horticulture and up to three years of similar or more advanced work in greenhouses and supervising. This role may also require certification as a Commercial Pesticide Applicator before the end of the applicable trial.

Learn more about MSU AgBioResearch here. To learn more about the position or if you are interested in applying online, visit the Careers @ MSU website for more information! Applications require a resume, cover letter, three professional references and should be submitted by October 1st. 

Job of the Week: Office Coordinator

This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting as the Office Coordinator for International Studies and Programs at MSU (job posting 971859). If you are interested in supporting operations at the Center for Gender in Global Context (GenCen), coordinating projects and programs, planning events, and providing first-level support for student employees, this may be the job for you. You will play a vital role in GenCen production, operation, communications and more.

The Center for Gender in Global Context serves as Michigan State’s hub for gender and sexuality research, as well as engagement and teaching resources with a global perspective. GenCen prides itself on connecting scholars, students, and community stakeholders with feminist knowledge to encourage social change. 

This in-person role’s main responsibilities include preparing reports and promotional materials for GenCen, maintaining the website, creating graphic standards, and implementing communication strategies and executions – all while adhering to university and GenCen’s core values and policies. You will also oversee communications targeted towards GenCen’s community, including but not limited to the annual magazine, emails, newsletters, social media, flyers, brochures, presentations, podcasts, annual reports, and GenCen’s website. On the administrative side, you will monitor and support all facilities, complete computer tasks, answer phones and emails, seminars, and provide first-level supervision for designated student employees through goal-setting and check-ins.

The education, experience and skills desired for this role include two or three years of college or related technical school, and six months to a year of related work experience including using social media platforms and customer service. You will be using Qualtrics, Adobe, Microsoft Office applications, and copyediting, so it is important to have background knowledge in these areas. You should also have experience in event planning, supervising, communicating, and working collaboratively.  
Learn more about MSU’s Center for Gender in Global Context here. To learn more about this position or if you are interested in applying online, please visit the Careers at MSU website for more information! Applications require a resume and a letter of interest, and should be submitted by August 20th.

Back-to-School Discounts for the 2024-25 School Year

Whether your family loves shopping for back to school, or they dread it every year, MSU Benefits Plus has you covered. All benefit-eligible employees can log into the MSU Benefits Plus portal with their MSU email address, and find dozens of discounts to get you and your family heading back to school in style without paying full price. 

Below are just a few examples of what might be useful this time of year. 

Computer & Electronics

Technology is now an essential part of the school supply list so enjoy extra savings on those investments through a variety of retailers, even here at MSU. 

  • Apple: Receive employee pricing on the products you want
  • Dell: Get the best pricing available on all Dell PCs, electronics and accessories
  • HP: Save up to 62% off the full portfolio of HP products
  • Lenovo: Save up to 67% during Lenovo’s Back to School Event
  • Microsoft Office: Save over 70% on Microsoft Office Home and Business
  • MSU Tech Store: Purchase all kinds of tech with prices exclusive to MSU staff, faculty, and students

Clothing and Apparel

Everyone wants a great outfit for their first day of school, whether you’re a student, an educator, or even if it’s just another day at the office. 

  • Bombas: 20% off with code CORESTREAM20 (plus a pair is donated with every pair purchased!) 
  • Crocs: Save $20 off a purchase of $100 or more using the code CROCS20
  • Spartan Spirit Shops: Visit any Shop in person and show your Faculty/Staff ID for 20% off!

Education 

Learn a new skill, stock up on textbooks for those fall courses, and show your Spartan spirit, all at a discount through these local organizations. 

  • Spartan Bookstore: 10% off new and used books when you show your ID
  • Student Book Store: 10% of your whole purchase (excluding computer software and calculators) when you show your ID
  • Method Learning: Up to 20% off SAT/ACT prep, college advising and more

For all of these discounts and more visit the HR Website or the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Employees can also call Benefits Plus at 888-758-7575 with any questions. Back-to-School is on at Michigan State!

Deals and Discounts for Father’s Day

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are still looking to show the dad in your life that you care, look no further than these discounts! Whether it’s your dad, husband, father-in-law or any other important guy in your life, take advantage of these exclusive Father’s Day savings using MSU Benefits Plus.

To access all the discounts, visit MSU Benefits Plus and sign up for a free account using your MSU email address.

Check out some of these deals that you can find through MSU Benefits Plus:

Sports

  • Forest Akers Golf Course â€“ MSU employees with a valid MSU ID receive reduced rates on playing and shopping at the two 18-hole championship layout golf courses and two full-service golf shops!
  • Premium Seats USA â€“ Get 10% off sporting event tickets on Premium Seats USA using the code CORESTREAM at checkout.

Technology

  • Dell â€“ MSU Benefits Plus members get the best pricing available on all Dell PCs, electronics and accessories with the Dell Member Purchase Program.
  • Apple â€“ MSU employees qualify for preferred pricing on all of Apple’s latest products. This includes employee pricing and ratings and reviews on accessories and software. Order from the online Apple EPP store and identify yourself as a Corestream member when purchasing.

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Tickets at Work â€“ MSU employees can save up to 40% on movie tickets nationwide.
  • MSU Meat Lab â€“ MSU employees with a valid MSU ID can receive a discount on quality meats and other items right on campus.
  • Restaurant.com – Save 20% on all gift certificates. Explore new restaurants, save at old favorites, or enjoy quality takeout meals with Restaurant.com.

Find these savings as well as many other benefits by visiting the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Sign up or log in today and have a fun, family-filled Father’s Day!

Deals and Discounts for Mother’s Day

This Mother’s Day (May 12), show the mom in your life that you appreciate them with a thoughtful gift – whether that’s your mom, mother to your kiddos, stepmom, mother-in-law, or any maternal figure in your life. MSU benefits-eligible employees have access to many discounts and savings through MSU Benefits Plus.

To access all the discounts, visit MSU Benefits Plus and sign in or sign-up for a free account using your MSU email address.

Check out some of these deals that you can find through MSU Benefits Plus:

Flowers

  • 1-800 Flowers: Use code CSTREAM to enjoy 20% off from 1-800 Flowers, including Fruit Bouquets!
  • ReVased: Use code CORESTREAM20 to take 20% off your ReVased flower bouquet or plant purchase.
  • FTD: Save 25% on flowers and gifts from FTD.

Gifts

  • Bonheur Jewelry: Use code CS30% to receive 30% off sustainable jewelry.
  • Tech Perks: Save up to 75% on Bluetooth speakers, headphones, phone cases, and more by using code CORESTREAM.
  • Apple: Get preferred employee pricing on iPhones, iMacs, and more!
  • Tickets at Work: Save up to 60% on hotels, travel, and events through Tickets at Work!
  • Baloo: Use code CORESTREAM to receive 20% off weighted blankets, bedding, and more!

Food

Find these discounts and many more by visiting the MSU Benefits Plus website. For questions, please contact the MSU Benefits Plus customer care team at 888-758-7575.

Don’t Miss Out on These Exclusive Spring Break Discounts!

Spring Break for many area schools is quickly approaching. Before finalizing your plans, review your exclusive employee discounts through MSU Benefits Plus to determine if any may be useful to your family.

To access all the discounts, visit the MSU Benefits Plus website and log in or sign up for a free account.

Travel

National Car Rental: Enjoy up to 20% off your reservation rate when booking through our exclusive link. Discount automatically applied with the link. 

Tickets at Work: Go somewhere new in 2024 with up to 60% off exclusive hotel rates at top destinations worldwide. 

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: Save up to 20% off the best available rooms at participating hotels worldwide.

Entertainment

Premium Seats USA: Save 10% on ticket purchases to professional and collegiate sporting events, including football, baseball, basketball, hockey, tennis, golf, auto racing, wrestling and more when you use promo code CORESTREAM. 

Tiqets: Save over 40% on Museums worldwide. Access top museums across the country and around the world! Save an additional 10% at checkout, just for MSU Employees!

Restaurant.comGet 20% off all certificates. Explore new restaurants, save at old favorites or enjoy quality takeout meals. 

Find these savings as well as many other discounts by visiting the MSU Benefits Plus website. The MSU Benefits Plus Customer Care Team is available to answer questions at 888-758-7575.

Campus Deals

Wharton: Discounts are given to Wharton Center subscribers and occasional 10-15% discounts on select performances are given to MSU employees.

Munn Ice Arena: Save on public skating during spring break. Employees receive discounted rates with valid MSU ID. The next public skating day is Saturday, March 30 from 4:30-6:40 p.m.

Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center: Thinking about a staycation? MSU Employees can receive special hotel accommodation rates when making reservations. A valid MSU employee ID may be required at check-in.

Employee Discounts to Support Your 2024 Resolutions

Another new year means new resolutions, and MSU Benefits Plus wants to make those goals and tasks more achievable than ever. Below, you can learn more about these exclusive health, wellness, and other helpful discounts for MSU employees and start your journey to a happy new year today!

To access these discounts and more, login to MSU Benefits Plus today. If you haven’t used MSU Benefits Plus previously, register using your employee email address and set up an account. 

Health & Wellness

  • Noom â€“ Save 30% on a 12-month program. Use code: EBG.
  • Mindfulness.com â€“ Save 50% on a year of Mindfulness. Use code: STRESSFREE.
  • Bowflex â€“ Save up to $300 off the C6 Bike and other great discounts. Use code: EXCLUSIVE.

Travel

Education

  • Spartan Bookstore â€“ Save 10% on new and used books, clothing and more.
  • Rosetta Stone â€“ Get a lifetime subscription with unlimited languages for $149 with no renewal fee (normally $299).

Tech

  • Apple â€“ Get preferred pricing on iPhones, iMacs and more.
  • Dell â€“ Get the best pricing available on all Dell PCs, electronics and accessories.

The HR website also offers other deals you can find on-campus through the MSU Tech Store, MSU Bakers, and the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, among others. You can check out some of those deals through the MSU HR Website. For more information on discounts from MSU Benefits Plus, visit the MSU Benefits Plus website. If you have any questions about the discounts, please contact MSU Benefits Plus via email at msubenefitsplus@corestream.com or by phone at 888-758-7575.

Back-to-School Discounts for the 2023-24 School Year

Whether your family loves shopping for back to school, or they dread it every year, MSU Benefits Plus has you covered. All benefit-eligible employees can log into the MSU Benefits Plus portal with their MSU email address, and find dozens of discounts to get you and your family heading back to school in style without paying full price. 

Below are just a few examples of what might be useful this time of year. 

Computer & Electronics

Technology is now an essential part of the school supply list so enjoy extra savings on those investments through a variety of retailers, even here at MSU. 

  • Apple: Employee pricing on everything you purchase
  • HP: Up to 62% off computers and accessories
  • Dell: Up to 30% off using the Member ID PS113067902
  • Lenovo: Back to School savings of up to 72% off until August 20!
  • MSU Tech Store: Purchase all kinds of tech with prices exclusive to MSU staff, faculty, and students

Clothing and Apparel

Everyone wants a great outfit for their first day of school, whether you’re a student, an educator, or even if it’s just another day at the office. 

  • Bombas: 20% off with code CORE20 (plus a pair is donated with every pair purchased!) 
  • Crocs: Save $20 off a purchase of $100 or more using the code SAVE20
  • Spartan Spirit Shops: Visit any Shop in person and show your Faculty/Staff ID for 20% off!

Education 

Learn a new skill, stock up on textbooks for those fall courses, and show your Spartan spirit, all at a discount through these local organizations. 

For all of these discounts and more visit the HR Website or the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Employees can also call Benefits Plus at 888-758-7575 with any questions. Back to School is on at Michigan State!