As president of Michigan State University, Dr. Kevin Guskiewicz is shaping the future of one of the nation's top research institutions - helping students excel, attracting the best talent, and expanding MSU's impact in Detroit. In this episode, Bob Riney and Kevin talk about the transformative 30-year partnership with Henry Ford Health and MSU, highlighted by a brand-new research center that will span nearly 350,000 square feet and feature seven stories of advanced laboratory space. They also explore the important role of free speech on campus, the evolving landscape of diversity, equity & inclusion, and the university's commitment to driving innovation through collaboration. Kevin shares colorful anecdotes about his roots in a town known for Arnold Palmer, Rolling Rock, and Mr. Rogers, topped off with some savvy advice from his daughter.

:15- Bob Riney introduces The BOBcast and welcomes Kevin Guskiewicz, President of Michigan State University.
1:26- Kevin shares his initial impressions of Michigan, the unpredictable Michigan weather, and the partnership with Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University.
2:12- Kevin emphasizes the importance of talent attraction and having a good roadmap for recruitment
2:48- Kevin compares the role of university president to Wayne Gretzky's strategy on the ice, predicting where the puck is going to be.
2:58- Kevin talks about the importance of sports as one of many avenues into the university and the world-class faculty and coaches at Michigan State.
3:50- Kevin mentions the competitive juices between MSU and the University of Michigan and the importance of partnering with other universities in the university research corridor.
5:00- Kevin pitches Michigan State as the pioneer land-grant university, built around agriculture, engineering, and education.
5:22- “We have to become a more contemporary university” ~ Kevin Guskiewicz
5:32- Kevin highlights the university's medical colleges, nursing school, and supply chain management program.
6:05- Kevin mentions the largest incoming class in the university’s history and the high percentage of Michigan students and graduates staying in the state.
6:33- Bob leads the discussion of the importance of maintaining safety on campus while allowing free speech.
7:10- Kevin Guskiewicz talks about the need to engage with students and faculty on issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and mentions the review of policies to ensure clarity and communication of expectations.
7:52- Kevin emphasizes the importance of modeling and promoting free speech through programming on public discourse.
8:02- Bob talks of Henry Ford Health and MSU being purposeful with diversity, equity, and inclusion.
8:27- Kevin defines diversity as a fact, equity as an aspiration, and inclusion as a non-negotiable choice.
9:00- Kevin mentions the joint research enterprise with Henry Ford Health to address health disparities.
9:14- Bob and Kevin discuss the early stages of the 30-year partnership between Henry Ford Health and Michigan State University.
9:32- Kevin expresses excitement about the partnership elevating both institutions.
9:45- Kevin highlights the research center in Detroit as a game-changer for research in key areas like cancer and neuroscience.
10:32- Kevin mentions the Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute and the advanced technology to recruit top researchers.
11:08- Bob asks Kevin about his vision for Michigan State University in five years.
11:33- Kevin Guskiewicz envisions an MSU- Henry Ford Health campus
11:55- Kevin talks about developing the Fisher Building with retail, restaurants, and other amenities, the potential for a high-end grocery store and a boutique hotel to benefit patients and the research community.
13:09- Bob asks Kevin about his personal interests and hobbies.
13:25- Kevin shares his hometown upbringing, love for golf, being a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and his appreciation for James Taylor and Chris Stapleton.
14:49- Kevin jokes about his daughter's request to avoid being recorded while dancing.
15:17- Bob asks what Kevin’s dream headline would be in five years.
16:36- Bob talks about being surprised by Kevin’s confidence as campuses being an epicenter of free speech in a way we’re securing the physical and mental safety of all
17:15- Bob thanks listeners and hopes they’re being motivated by guests on The BOBcast
18:13- Bob appreciates how MSU has a “secret sauce” of agriculture that could move us to food being our source of wellness