Connecting Michigan communities with MSU’s campus is the goal of Hiram Fitzgerald, assistant provost for University Outreach.
Fitzgerald, a university distinguished professor of psychology, starts his new position today. Robert Church, who formerly held the position, retired in August.
“I have just moved the last files into my new office,” Fitzgerald said. “We hope to enhance the connection between faculty and (MSU) Extension and the connection between university and the state and nation.”
University Outreach is intended to extend MSU faculty research and instructional programs to off-campus communities across the state.
Fitzgerald said his immediate goals include developing action teams in the areas of community and economic development and offering more service-learning opportunities for undergraduates.
He said University Outreach will be increasing its efforts to promote MSU, especially through the Internet.
“We want to help make all the University Outreach opportunities visible,” he said. “There is a great deal going on on this campus, we want to make that visible to the state of Michigan.”
Fitzgerald has already been involved with outreach work in the children, youth and families area - his specialty within the psychology discipline.
MSU Provost Lou Anna Simon said Fitzgerald was chosen after he received a high recommendation by a search committee made up of University Outreach faculty.
“He has indicated, throughout his work, a passion for working on university-community partnerships,” she said.
Simon said Fitzgerald will work closely with MSU Extension Director Margaret Bethel, who was promoted in October, to enhance MSU’s statewide visibility and involvement.
“The essence of Michigan State University is to use our knowledge to make a difference,” Simon said. “The outreach function is a vehicle to bring cutting edge knowledge into daily lives of the people of Michigan.”
Neal Schmitt, Department of Psychology chairman, said Fitzgerald’s energy makes him well-suited for the position.
“He has always been very effective in getting funding for his research, that should be helpful in his new job,” Schmitt said. “(Fitzgerald) is capable of doing many things simultaneously.”
In addition to teaching, Fitzgerald said he will continue to fill his roles as the World Association for Infant Mental Health’s executive director and MSU’s Interdepartmental Graduate Specializations in Applied Developmental Science director.
“I think he is a great choice, he will make a real difference,” Schmitt said.
