Landon Society Open House Celebrates Impact of Planned Gifts

Members toured renovated spaces, heard performances at the College of Music

More than 140 members of the Landon Society—MSU's philanthropic society for people who have remembered the university in their estate plans—came together in June 2023 to celebrate the impact of planned giving at Michigan State.

Guests were treated to a strolling dinner and an insider's view of the newly renovated College of Music facilities, including captivating performances by the Spartan Jazz Quartet and a harpist as well as rehearsing percussionists, musicians and singers.

Deanna Gast, senior director of the Office of Gift Planning, welcomed guests and shared that current documented commitments to MSU total more than $655 million from more than 2,000 households.

Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff expressed appreciation for Landon Society member's support, which she said leaves a lasting legacy at MSU. She highlighted the history of Selma and Stanley Hollander who were longtime members of the MSU community. She noted how the couple's generosity ripples through MSU's cultural landscape, ensuring that current and future generations will enjoy theatrical, musical, academic and artistic experiences as much as Selma and Stanley did during their lifetimes.

MSU Board of Trustees Chairperson Dr. Rema Vassar also offered gratitude to Landon Society members on behalf of the board, noting that future gifts are vital to strengthening the university, expanding opportunity, and spurring innovative research and programs.

Landon Society is named for Linda Landon, who as MSU's librarian from 1891 to 1931 built both a library and library staff to meet the young college's growing research capacity while also laying a solid foundation for the future.

"Like Linda Landon, you believe in Michigan State and its mission and have made a commitment to help sustain the bright, green future of this great institution," Dr. Vassar said. "Thank you for placing your trust in us."

Jim Forger, dean of the College of Music, shared details about the acoustical advantages of the new spaces in the College of Music and introduced James K. Billman Jr. whose gift to the College of Music spearheaded the renovations. The Billman Pavilion was named in his honor.

Photos from the event can be viewed here.

Every year, Landon Society members are invited to campus to celebrate their commitment to MSU. Watch your mail and email for an invitation in 2025.

LEARN MORE: about making gift to MSU by contacting Deanna Gast, Office of Gift Planning, at gastd@msu.edu or by calling (517) 884-1071.