EAST LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan State University Office of Admissions and MSU Extension 4-H Youth Development signed a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, to enhance the collaboration between the two entities when offering precollege and postsecondary opportunities for 4-H youth throughout the state.

The MOU formalizes a decades-long handshake agreement encouraging 4-H professionals in each county to help students interested in attending MSU to find pathways to the admissions process.

“4-H is a nationwide program geared toward teaching young people life skills and helping them look into opportunities after high school,” said Quentin Tyler, director of MSU Extension. “Our 4-H program coordinators in each county really get to know our youth and their families.”

Dave Weatherspoon, vice provost of enrollment and academic strategic planning, said the collaboration exemplified the power of shared vision and innovative thinking.

“MSU Extension has a vast infrastructure and deep connections in communities and with families,” he said. “Our MSU admissions counselors have created a robust pipeline with K-12 schools, ensuring we reach prospective students early and provide them with clear pathways to success.”

Currently, there are more than a dozen precollege events on the MSU campus annually that introduce 4-Hers to educational and career opportunities, and many more take place throughout the state. Overnight opportunities such as 4-H Exploration Days, Capitol Experience and Animal and Vet Science Camp give young people a taste of what it’s like to live on campus and attend classes while meeting new people.

Jodi Schulz, co-director of MSU Extension’s Children and Youth Institute and state leader for Michigan 4-H, believes the opportunities for this partnership not only strengthen relationships with MSU but also help students set goals for the future.

Learn more about Michigan 4-H online at https://www.canr.msu.edu/4h/ or contact the county MSU Extension office. The MSU Office of Admissions website also has more information on the university and the application process.