Former Governor Jim Blanchard's Statement on the MSU Board of Trustees

October 24, 2023

Anyone remotely familiar with the dysfunctional  MSU Board of Trustees is not surprised by Trustee Brianna Scott’s letter calling for Board Chair Vassar to resign and if not, be removed by the governor under the Michigan Constitution. I agree with Trustee Scott. I salute her courage. As a proud MSU graduate, I say this has gone on long enough.

The chaos at the board level and the bullying of university officials by Board Chair Vassar are an open secret in East Lansing. Most trustees are afraid to admit this in public. This is what happens when people in power fail in their duty to face the truth openly.

Most university officials are trying to be respectful of the board while they are being mistreated. This has gone on long enough. We need to stand up for them.

In addition to the ten transgressions listed by Trustee Scott, we have in Chair Vassar conduct unbecoming of any state official. Her constant harassment of Acting President Woodruff and many other dedicated university leaders is well known. Further her threats to fellow board members, including Trustee Scott, interfere with the smooth functioning of the board. Our university deserves better.

From all appearances, Chair Vassar treats Michigan State University like it’s her own private club. Her day to day meddling in the management of the university makes responsible governance more difficult than it needs to be. The taxpayers and our Spartan Nation deserve better.

In addition, Dr Vassar’s lack of cooperation in the current investigation of the Brenda Tracy - Coach Mel Tucker matter raises serious questions of legal and financial liability. Other board members who fail to cooperate may also be in jeopardy.

As a proud MSU graduate and an active member of our Spartan Nation, I think I speak for thousands of Spartans when I say we believe it’s time for our great university to be treated with the dignity and respect it deserves.

Received by Faculty Senate Chairperson Jack Lipton via e-mail.