Training Next Generation a Top Priority for MSU Researchers

Jim and Janet Ireland have devoted their careers to Michigan State and to improving lives through research.

That same research brought the couple together. They married in 1986 after meeting at an endocrinology conference. Jim had already been at MSU since 1977—he’s a professor of reproductive physiology in animal science—and Janet joined him in 1988. She’s a research assistant in animal science.

The Irelands study fertility in cattle and use that knowledge to help improve reproductive success in women. Both praise the environment MSU provides for research.

“I think the breadth and diversity of programs and the large support system across the university is very helpful for anyone who is in research,” Janet says.

Legacy Gift

Michigan State will receive funds from the Irelands’ retirement plan after their lifetimes—a gift that will pay, hopefully in perpetuity, for up to four years of school for each new Ph.D. student in reproductive biology or a related field.

The Irelands chose this type of gifting to students because of the great need for financial support of Ph.D. students. “It’s important if we’re going to train the next generation of scientists to have funds for exceptional graduate students,” Jim says.

“The funding for graduate students is very minimal. We need to be able to train the best students available to work and solve problems,” he says. “That’s true across the board, not just in reproduction.”

The Irelands’ gift also directs smaller amounts to the MSU Horticulture Gardens and toward a scholarship for a Girl Scout, both passions of Janet’s.

“We’re very happy to be at Michigan State and have the opportunity to make this donation to the university to help support research,” Jim says.

You can follow in the Irelands’ footsteps and give a gift that supports your MSU passion. Contact MSU Office of Gift Planning at giftplan@msu.edu or 800-232-4678 | 517-884-1000 to learn more.