MSU says safety first when Spartans travel abroad

From studying infectious diseases to building global partnerships, Spartans are working in every corner of the world. To help the university support their health and safety while abroad, faculty and staff planning international travel for work must register their trips through MSU’s Global Travel and Remote Work Registry portal at least three weeks before departure.

The reminder comes as MSU continues strengthening the systems behind international travel support. Last month, the university launched the GTRW portal as part of a new policy tied to federally sponsored research. The new site, which replaces the legacy registry, improves usability, streamlines registration and better connects the campus units that support travel.

Matthew Cullinane, director of MSU’s Office for Global Health, Safety and Security, said it is important to register early even if your destination seems routine. Regardless of where Spartans are traveling, each trip comes with unique considerations.

While uncommon, disruptions can happen: natural disasters, customs hold ups, transportation delays, civil unrest, crime, accidents, illness. “Even experienced travelers can run into problems,” Cullinane said.

Timely registration gives Global Safety staff the opportunity to identify potential risks, help travelers adjust plans if necessary and connect them with support such as training and insurance resources.

The work is part of a broader effort to help MSU stay compliant while supporting global research and engagement. In a March update, MSU leaders noted that recent changes have made MSU one of the first universities to be compliant with new federal requirements while providing “clearer guidance and more coordinated support” for international research activities.

That support system is substantial. Housed within International Studies and Programs, the Office for Global Health, Safety and Security is a national leader in this work, supporting more than 7,000 Spartans who travel abroad each year. In addition to planning, the office provides 24/7 emergency assistance, monitors international developments and offers training. Cullinane is also hiring a global safety, operations and logistics coordinator with expanded responsibilities, who will help with travel preparedness, operational analysis and response planning. The application deadline for the position is April 14.

MSU’s leadership in this space is drawing national attention. Cullinane was elected to the academia sector board of the U.S. Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council, which connects the State Department with organizations working to mitigate risks tied to international operations.