College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Forestry

As 2023 draws to a close, I’m probably one of a few people you’ll meet that enjoy the snow and cold. Field work has always been more enjoyable to me on snowshoes, rather that swatting away blackflies or sweating in Michigan’s lovely 95% humidity. A winter forest scene is just as beautiful in my mind as a flowering spring one. Make sure to take some time to get out and take in the cold. Follow a bobcat’s pawprints through the snow or watch a large bevvy of swans lounging together on an icy riverbank. It’s easy to find beauty in the forest, no matter the season.

This past year our Spartan community came together as a family. We rebuilt from tragedy and found an endless fountain of support within one another. It’s for this reason I know campus still feels like home to so many, no matter how long ago they may have graduated.

I had great conversations with both alumni and current students at our 2023 FAA Tailgate in September. Making new connections, and rekindling a few old ones, was a wonderful day to spend a beautiful fall afternoon. A big thank you to our sponsors and attendees. We hope it continues to grow year after year and I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible.

Coming in 2024, our board has made the decision to start an “Honorary Alumni Award.” These honorees will be those who have volunteered their time and efforts for the MSU Forestry department and community, but never actually graduated with a degree from the department. Our first recipient will be honored at the 2024 FAA Tailgate coming next fall. If any of you know of a person who exemplifies Spartan spirit and should be rewarded for it, please email me and they will be added to our list of prospects. It is important to take the time to celebrate the good in the world and we hope this award does just that!

On behalf of the FAA board, I would also like to send a HUGE thank you to Rich Kelly, our current Secretary/Treasurer, as his final term ends this December. I’ll be honest that I may be a little lost without you, Rich. Thanks for all your wisdom.

Please enjoy a safe and healthy Holiday season, and as always, GO GREEN!

Hilary Wells