For most of my life, I have been incredibly proud to call myself a Spartan.

Michigan State University is one of the greatest public institutions in the country. It is a world-class research university, a place that has transformed countless lives through education, and a community that connects more than 600,000 living alumni across the globe. From our classrooms and laboratories to our athletic programs and alumni network, Michigan State has long stood as a source of pride for those of us fortunate enough to call it home.

That is why I never thought I would find myself writing a petition calling for the resignation of members of Michigan State University’s Board of Trustees.

But after years of controversy, dysfunction, and failed leadership, I believe enough is enough.

As Spartans, we expect our university’s leaders to put Michigan State first. We expect them to act with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the long-term success of our institution. Instead, we have watched repeated turmoil, public infighting, and instability damage the reputation of one of America’s great universities.

The most recent example is the resignation of President Kevin Guskiewicz.

President Guskiewicz was widely viewed as a respected leader who brought credibility, stability, and a vision for Michigan State’s future. His departure should alarm every student, alumnus, faculty member, staff member, donor, and supporter of this university.

Unfortunately, the damage did not stop there.

Michigan State also lost Athletic Director J Batt, one of the most accomplished leaders the university has attracted in years. During his time at Michigan State, Batt helped build unprecedented momentum for Spartan Athletics, strengthened relationships with donors and alumni, and played a critical role in securing a transformational philanthropic commitment exceeding $400 million—one of the most significant gifts in university history.

More importantly, J Batt represented something Michigan State desperately needed: alignment.

For the first time in years, it felt like university leadership, athletics, donors, alumni, and supporters were all moving in the same direction. There was optimism. There was momentum. There was a shared vision for the future of Michigan State University.

Today, that momentum has been jeopardized.

When one respected leader leaves, it may be an isolated event. When multiple high-profile leaders depart amid ongoing controversy surrounding the Board of Trustees, it becomes impossible to ignore the larger problem.

Michigan State should be attracting and retaining exceptional leaders—not watching them walk away.

This petition is not about politics. It is not about personal disagreements. It is about accountability.

Michigan State students deserve a university focused on their success. Faculty and staff deserve stability. Donors deserve confidence that their investments are being stewarded responsibly. Alumni deserve to know that the institution they love is being guided by leaders who place the university above personal agendas and public drama.

Recently, legendary Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo called upon Spartans everywhere to become engaged and to stand up for the future of our university. His message was clear: Michigan State belongs to all of us, and all of us have a responsibility to protect it.

As alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters, we cannot continue to accept a status quo that drives away talented leaders, damages our reputation, and creates unnecessary instability.

Michigan State is bigger than any individual trustee.

It is bigger than any one administration.

It is bigger than any one moment in time.

Our university deserves leadership that reflects the excellence, integrity, and values that have defined Michigan State for generations.

That is why I am calling for the resignation of Trustees Rema Vassar, Dennis Denno, and Mike Balow.

This petition is not driven by anger. It is driven by love for Michigan State University and a belief that we can do better.

If you believe Michigan State deserves accountable leadership, renewed stability, and a governing board that puts the university first, I ask you to add your name and join thousands of Spartans who are calling for change.

Together, we can send a clear message:

Michigan State University deserves better.

Go Green.