Melissa McDaniels is assistant dean of the Graduate School and director of the Teaching Assistant Program. Kristen Renn is a professor in the Department of Educational Administration and recently completed a term as director for student success initiatives.
They’re both working to create a positive learning environment — but the commitment to their cause doesn’t end when they leave the office. MSU is as much a community as it is an institute of higher education, and McDaniels and Renn truly understand the importance of creating a supportive, welcoming place for students to learn and live.
They use payroll deduction to provide support to the College of Education, the Edward J. Petry Endowment for graduate fellowships, the LBGT Resource Center, and the Student Food Bank. Through their giving, they are ensuring no student feels marginalized or limited by their differences, their struggles, or their circumstances.
“Since the day we arrived at MSU, we have never felt anything but welcome — as both professionals, and as a couple," says McDaniels. "This is our community, and we give back because that’s what you do as a member of a community.”
Reused with permission from University Advancement
