Bert Cregg is a professor of Horticulture and Forestry in Michigan State University’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Cregg talks about the Christmas tree industry’s place in Michigan’s economy and says there are plenty of trees available for those who want them this season. He talks about the latest MSU research on Christmas trees and says that climate change is likely already impacting the industry. And he shares his tips for selecting, caring for, and properly disposing of a real tree.

Conversation Highlights:

(0:29) - Talk about Michigan's Christmas tree industry and its economic impact in the state.

(1:27) - What's your background, and how did you originally become interested in studying Christmas trees?

(2:31) - What are your and MSU's research interests and activities in this area?

(6:25) - How's the supply this year? Are there plenty of trees to go around for all who want them?

(8:25) - Is climate change impacting the industry? If so, how?

(11:30) - Compare and contrast real and artificial trees and their respective impacts on the environment?

(14:53) - What are your tips for selecting, maintaining, and properly disposing of a real Michigan Christmas tree?

(20:04) - What is the Michigan Christmas Tree Association?

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The Green and White Council at Michigan State University includes some of Michigan’s foremost business and civic leaders coming together to champion bold initiatives that amplify MSU’s role as Michigan’s state university and address the state’s biggest challenges. The Council is one of President Guskiewciz’s signature initiatives.

Harnessing MSU’s distinctive assets and the unparalleled expertise of its members while focusing on what matters most for Michigan, the Council will:

• Develop talent for in-demand jobs across the state and equip Spartans with skills of the future.
• Connect Spartans to great companies and careers in Michigan.
• Leverage MSU’s cutting-edge research and intellectual property to propel Michigan’s economy.

One of the members of the council is Ancor CEO Jose Flores.

Conversation Highlights:

(0:52) – Meet Jose Flores

(1:31) – What’s the history and mission of Ancor?

(2:13) – What made you accept the invitation of President Guskiewicz to join the council?

(3:08) – Is there a disconnect between higher education and employer needs?

(3:56) – What are the challenges and opportunities ahead?

(4:54) – Have you seen some examples of regional or statewide collaborations that have been successful?

(6:24) – How will we know if the council is successful?

(6:47) – How do we go about keeping Spartans in Michigan when they graduate?

(7:57) – How does Ancor go about talent development?

(9:56) – What should we keep in mind about the Green and White Council and what it’s trying to do?

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MSU Shares is a fundraising campaign to help local charities provide services to students and residents right in our own community. Donations from faculty, staff and students support charities that serve more than 120,000 people annually in our tri-county region. With the assistance of the United Way, employee volunteers from across campus seek donations from their peers and help spread awareness of this annual campaign.

Here to discuss MSU Shares are MSU’s Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Bill Beekman and United Way President and CEO for United Way of South Central Michigan Chris Sargent.

Conversation Highlights:

(0:15) – Bill introduces Chris. Why is United Way important for our community?

(2:14) – United Way supports young people who are interested in a college education.

(5:41) – This is an important time to launch MSU Shares. What are the giving options?

(9:35) – It’s really easy for MSU employees to give to the United Way through EBS.

(11:30) – The name of the campaign - MSU Shares - is appropriate.

Listen to “MSU Today with Russ White” on the radio and through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your shows.