Why does Michigan State University Extension do what we do?

We do it for those everyday moments behind our work and our mission. A teen discovering a lifelong passion in 4-H. An entrepreneur seeing their product on a grocery store shelf for the first time.

These are some of the stories behind those moments. These videos, features, and testimonials highlight the people and places we serve and the real-world results that happen when we bring the resources and knowledge of MSU into homes, businesses and communities across Michigan.

So come see Extension in Action!

For a broader look at how this work adds up across the state, explore the reports on our Discover Our Impact page, including our 2025 impact report, Extension at Work.

Articles

'It changed my life': Urban farmer finds stability through counseling support

Published on July 21, 2026
Chris Huntoon operates a microgreens farm in downtown Grand Rapids where constant demands and financial strain eventually took a toll.
MSU Extension internships offer a classroom the size of Michigan

Published on July 20, 2026
From the Upper Peninsula to the Motor City, MSU Extension’s statewide reach gives students the type of experience that few internships can match.
The Gardener’s Detective: Meet MSU Extension Educator David Lowenstein

Published on July 17, 2026
From diagnosing garden mysteries and identifying insects to preserving Mackinac Island's historic lilacs and sharing gardening advice, David Lowenstein is on the case to helping Michiganders find practical, science-based solutions.
From vision to action: How MSU Extension is advancing its strategic direction

Published on July 13, 2026
Less than two years after adopting its Strategic Direction, MSU Extension is already improving its operations and building on its statewide impact.
Community-led nutrition and physical activity efforts across Michigan receive $65,000 in support from MSU Extension

Published on July 10, 2026
Community Change Fund helps partners strengthen and sustain access to healthy food and physical activity.

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Videos & Podcasts

A Second Bloom: Preserving Mackinac Island's Lilacs

Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau was notified by one of their staff that the lilacs were suffering from lilac borers, an insect that leads to health decline in the plants they inhabit. Luckily, they knew to call MSU Extension for help. Several years and 28 volunteers later, the historic lilacs are flourishing on the island ensuring the success of the Bureau's summer season opener - the annual lilac festival.
Supporting Healthy Aging Through Accessible Fitness

Learn how Michigan State University Extension helped Breton Green Village Apartments in Grand Rapids, MI champion physical activity in older adults.
Extension Does...Tourism in Roscommon

In 2023, Roscommon County Economic Development Corporation and Michigan State University Extension partnered together to strengthen rural tourism across the county and three communities - Prudenville/Houghton Lake, St. Helen, and Village of Roscommon.
What is AgrAbility?

The vision of the National AgrAbility Project is to enhance the quality of life for farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers with disabilities. In partnership with Easterseals MORC and Michigan State University, Michigan AgrAbility provides help to farmers with chronic health conditions. Together, we're helping individuals continue working while also supporting their families.