Michigan governor Rick Snyder announced Michigan State University as a recipient of the 2018 Education Service Leader award, which recognizes schools, universities or organizations that support youth to engage in service and volunteerism both on campus and in their communities.

MSU was one of three universities in the state to receive the award, alongside Jackson College and the University of Michigan-Flint.

Thirty-eight institutions, organizations and individuals received the Governor's Service Award in 2018 for their commitment to volunteerism, service or philanthropy.

“This year’s winners have inspiring stories. They have made a tremendous impact on the lives of others through their service,” Snyder said. “I am extremely grateful for the contributions they have made for Michigan and am honored to recognize their incredible accomplishments.”

“Michigan State University embraces service-learning and civic engagement as vital methods of fulfilling MSU's mission,” Snyder said.

In 1960, Gov. George Romney encouraged college students to develop volunteer programs for youth in the schools. The University Outreach and Engagement's Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement, or CSLCE, at MSU is celebrating its 50th anniversary for the duration of 2018.

The CSLCE, the first office of its kind in the United States at the time of its establishment, provides community services and opportunities to faculty, students and community partners. Between 2014 and 2016, nearly 54,000 MSU students participated in community-engaged learning and/or community service opportunities.

MSU continues to create opportunities to serve the community, and to find new ways to engage students in volunteerism and serve communities across the state.

The MSU Student Food Bank was founded in 1993 by a group of students and MSU staff. The Student Food Bank was the first campus-based food assistance program in the country. Another program, MSU Extension, helps citizens support youth across Michigan.

The Governor’s Service Awards winners will be honored during a special ceremony hosted by the Michigan Community Service Commission on June 5 at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts.