News

MSU Geography Alumna Earns Early Career Award

MSU Geography Alumna Earns Early Career Award

May 23, 2023 - Britta Wellenstein

In honor of her significant accomplishments and contributions to the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC) and the broader scientific community, Spartan Geography Alumna Cheyenne Lei has been awarded the 2023 Jennifer L. Reed Bioenergy Science Award.

Announcing the 2023 MSU Geography Award Recipients

Announcing the 2023 MSU Geography Award Recipients

May 10, 2023

The Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University offers congratulations to all of our 2023 GEO Award recipients recognizing student academic achievement.

MSU research indicates increased views of nature decrease behavior issues in elementary classrooms

MSU research indicates increased views of nature decrease behavior issues in elementary classrooms

May 3, 2023 - Diane Huhn

Under the direction of Amber Pearson, an associate professor in the MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, a cross-disciplinary team of health scientists, including geographers, a psychologist, kinesiologists, and a statistician, sought to assess the connection between nature views from classroom windows and children’s behavior problems.

Josh Pepper named MSU College of Social Science Outstanding Senior in Geography

Josh Pepper named MSU College of Social Science Outstanding Senior in Geography

May 2, 2023

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University proudly announces that Josh Pepper has been named the MSU College of Social Science Outstanding Senior in Geography.

onGEO announces new drone course in collaboration with MSU's RS&GIS and Project GREEEN

onGEO announces new drone course in collaboration with MSU's RS&GIS and Project GREEEN

April 25, 2023

Online Geography at Michigan State University (onGEO), a branch of the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, has announced the upcoming launch of a new course designed for those who wish to use drones as a mapping platform.

Registration is now open for onGEO’s upcoming professional GIS certificate courses

Registration is now open for onGEO’s upcoming professional GIS certificate courses

April 20, 2023

Registration is now open for the next session of onGEO's upcoming professional certificate courses. The session, which begins May 1, will feature three core courses, each of which count toward earning a Professional Certificate in GIS!

MSU Geography alum details war’s potential toxic impact on Ukrainian farmland

MSU Geography alum details war’s potential toxic impact on Ukrainian farmland

April 12, 2023 - Diane Huhn

Michigan State University Geography alum Joseph Hupy, a digital soil geomorphologist now at Purdue University, was recently featured on an episode of “All Things Considered” on NPR to discuss potential long-term impacts on Ukrainian soil as a result of the war taking place there.

MSU Geography professor earns professional achievement award

MSU Geography professor earns professional achievement award

April 11, 2023 - Kara Mackenzie

Guo Chen, an associate professor with the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU), recently received a professional achievement award from the MSU Center for Gender in Global Context and the MSU Women*s Student Services.

Geography Career Day and Job Fair to take place March 31

Geography Career Day and Job Fair to take place March 31

March 15, 2023

The Michigan State University Department of Geography, Environment, & Spatial Science (GEO), along with Career Services Network, are pleased to announce the return of an in-person MSU-GEO Career Day & Job Fair to take place on Friday, March 31, 2023, from 2:30-4:30 PM EST.

onGEO announces Summer 2023 course lineup

onGEO announces Summer 2023 course lineup

March 2, 2023

Explore with us this summer... online!

Award and scholarship application deadline extended

Award and scholarship application deadline extended

February 28, 2023

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences offers a variety of scholarships and funding sources for undergraduate and graduate students. The 2022-23 GEO Awards Committee is now accepting applications for several student awards and scholarships. Applications are due March 14, 2023, at 5:00 PM.

Spartan Strong

Spartan Strong

February 20, 2023

During tragic events, Spartans rally to ensure our campus and community have the resources necessary to provide for those in need. As the MSU community comes together to assist one another, learn more about how you can financially support the university with numerous challenges surrounding the evolving crisis.

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate 223 Courses

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate 223 Courses

February 10, 2023

Enrollment is now open for the next session of the Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Program. Classes begin March 6, 2023.

MSU Geography professor edits social-justice-focused issue of The Professional Geographer

MSU Geography professor edits social-justice-focused issue of The Professional Geographer

February 9, 2023

Guo Chen, an associate professor with the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Science at Michigan State University (MSU), has edited a newly published issue of The Professional Geographer, the official journal of the American Association of Geographers (AAG). The special issue is titled "Hidden Geographies: Migration, Intersectionality, and Social Justice in a Global Contemporaneous Space."

Geography Awards Committee announces call for student award and scholarship applications

Geography Awards Committee announces call for student award and scholarship applications

January 27, 2023

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences offers a variety of scholarships and funding sources for undergraduate and graduate students. The 2022-23 GEO Awards Committee is now accepting applications for several student awards and scholarships. Applications are due March 14, 2023, at 5:00 PM.

onGEO launches new online Geovisualization course

onGEO launches new online Geovisualization course

December 13, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is launching a new course focusing on geospatial visualization skills and tools for GIS professionals. The course, entitled "Geovisualization: Temporal and Interactive Mapping," is offered through the onGEO Professional Certificate program.

Power to the people must include the people

Power to the people must include the people

November 29, 2022 - Sue Nichols

Social scientists and communications experts joined engineers to engage rural communities that are off-grid in the Amazon rainforest to find better ways to deliver electricity.

David Roy Makes List of Most Highly Cited Researchers for Fourth Straight Year

David Roy Makes List of Most Highly Cited Researchers for Fourth Straight Year

November 18, 2022

Dr. David Roy, interim director of the Center for Global Change and Earth Observations and professor of Geography, has been named to the list of most highly cited researchers in the world for a fourth consecutive year.

GEO Alum to Match de Blij Scholarship Gifts Through Giving Tuesday

GEO Alum to Match de Blij Scholarship Gifts Through Giving Tuesday

November 17, 2022

In honor of Geography Awareness Week and Giving Tuesday, Geography alum, and supporter, Tim Caywood will generously match the first $5,000 in gifts to the De Blij Scholars every dollar donated up to $5,000.

Geography Awareness Week Events | November 14-19

Geography Awareness Week Events | November 14-19

November 9, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is gearing up to bring back its celebration of Geography Awareness Week after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic with a great lineup of activities including a special evening with internationally acclaimed artist Julie Mehretu.

Geography Student Awarded Provost’s Undergraduate Research Initiative Grant

Geography Student Awarded Provost’s Undergraduate Research Initiative Grant

November 8, 2022

The College of Social Science announced the recipients of the SSC-Provost’s Undergraduate Research Initiative Program (SSC-PURI), which supports undergraduate research through awards of up to $2,000 for Fall-Spring semesters for students majoring in the College.

The American Geographical Society Awards Van Cleef Memorial Medal to MSU's Joe T. Darden

The American Geographical Society Awards Van Cleef Memorial Medal to MSU's Joe T. Darden

November 7, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University congratulates Professor Emeritus Dr. Joe T. Darden on being awarded the prestigious Van Cleef Memorial Medal by the American Geographical Society (AGS). Dr. Darden will receive the medal on November 18 during the AGS Fall Symposium, ‘Geography2050: The Future of Food,’ to be held on November 17 and 18 at Columbia University.

Geography Awareness Week Event with Julie Mehretu to  Explore the Intersection of Art and Geography

Geography Awareness Week Event with Julie Mehretu to Explore the Intersection of Art and Geography

October 24, 2022 - Diane Huhn

The Michigan State University Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is proud to welcome internationally acclaimed artist, Julie Mehretu for a special discussion about the intersection of art and geography during the 35th Annual Geography Awareness Week.

Geography of Canada (GEO 331) to Launch this Spring

Geography of Canada (GEO 331) to Launch this Spring

October 19, 2022

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is pleased to announce the impending launch of GEO 331: Geography of Canada. This new, fully online course will be offered in Spring 2023.

Geography Alumna Wins with Pins: Representing Tennessee in an Alternative Way

Geography Alumna Wins with Pins: Representing Tennessee in an Alternative Way

October 18, 2022 - Alexander Gustanski

An alumna from the Michigan State University Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Science recently won a Skills USA statewide graphic design contest. Kyeesha Wilcox, who received her master's in geography from MSU in 2020, cited her time in East Lansing as a significant inspiration for her victory.

Transfer Student Earns de Blij Geography Scholar Award

Transfer Student Earns de Blij Geography Scholar Award

October 17, 2022

The Michigan State University Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Corbin Paules for the coveted deBlij Geography Scholar award.

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Professional GIS Certificate Courses | New Session Begins October 24

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Professional GIS Certificate Courses | New Session Begins October 24

October 13, 2022

Enrollment is now open for the next session of the Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Program offered by the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University. Courses start October 24, 2022.

MSU Geography Alumnus Offers Real-World Advice to Esri Young Professionals Network

MSU Geography Alumnus Offers Real-World Advice to Esri Young Professionals Network

September 13, 2022

MSU Geography Alumnus Michael Cousins was recently featured by the Esri Young Professionals Network (YPN) in their Faces of YPN series. Cousins is a GIS Practice Leader and Director of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology at architecture, engineering, and planning firm OHM Advisors.

Education Abroad Students Encourage Peers to Study Arts, Culture and Urban Sustainability in Rome

Education Abroad Students Encourage Peers to Study Arts, Culture and Urban Sustainability in Rome

September 12, 2022

Each summer the Global Urban Studies Program and the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences offer Arts, Culture & Urban Sustainability in Rome, in conjunction with the MSU College of Social Science and the International Studies and Programs Office for Education Abroad. Learn more about this engaging program.

Triple G Announces Fall Colloquium Series

Triple G Announces Fall Colloquium Series

September 7, 2022

The Geography Graduate Group (Triple G) at Michigan State University has announced its Colloquium Series for the Fall 2022 Semester. Each event is free and all are welcome.

Chen Named an MSU Lilly Fellow

Chen Named an MSU Lilly Fellow

September 6, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Dr. Guo Chen on being selected as a Lilly Teaching Fellow at Michigan State University.

Luo Named Director of Environmental Science and Policy Program at MSU

Luo Named Director of Environmental Science and Policy Program at MSU

August 25, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Professor Lifeng Luo on his appointment as Director of the Environmental Science and Policy Program at Michigan State University.

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Courses

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Courses

August 22, 2022

Enrollment is now open for the Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Program offered by the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University.

You're Invited: Second Annual MSU Geography Alumni Golf Outing

You're Invited: Second Annual MSU Geography Alumni Golf Outing

August 8, 2022

You're invited to the Second Annual Golf Outing hosted by the MSU Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences Alumni Advisory Board at Wheatfield Valley in Williamston.

MSU Scientists Partner with Kazakh Universities to Expand Environmental Science Curriculums and Networking Opportunities

MSU Scientists Partner with Kazakh Universities to Expand Environmental Science Curriculums and Networking Opportunities

July 19, 2022

Last month, Michigan State University professors Jiquan Chen, Peilei Fan, and Norman Graham traveled to Kazakhstan to participate in a unique program designed to assist universities in rural areas of the country with developing and delivering core ecology and environmental science courses.

Hot Time in the City: Can We Cool Urbanization's Impact on Global Warming?

Hot Time in the City: Can We Cool Urbanization's Impact on Global Warming?

July 13, 2022

Ground-breaking research led by Michigan State University (MSU) and Stanford University published in the journal Nature Communications is helping us better understand the effects of past and future urbanization on global warming at the planetary scale, and the need to regulate and enhance the albedo of urban land with better planning policies and new construction techniques.

Geography Ph.D. Student Earns Prestigious Soil Science Award

Geography Ph.D. Student Earns Prestigious Soil Science Award

June 21, 2022

Congratulations to Christopher Baish, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University, for earning the 2022 Pedology Division Award from the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA).

Recent Geography Ph.D. Graduate Earns Prestigious USGS Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellowship

Recent Geography Ph.D. Graduate Earns Prestigious USGS Mendenhall Postdoctoral Fellowship

June 20, 2022

Congratulations to Kevin McKeehan, a recent Geography Ph.D. grad, on earning a prestigious USGS Mendenhall postdoctoral fellowship.

Geography Alumna Earns Postdoctoral Diversity Enrichment Fellowship

Geography Alumna Earns Postdoctoral Diversity Enrichment Fellowship

June 17, 2022

Congratulations to Demetrice “Dee” Jordan, an alumna of the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences and the Environmental Science and Policy Program at Michigan State University, for being named a 2022 Postdoctoral Diversity Enrichment Program Fellow (PDEP) by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Courses

Enrollment Open for MSU Online Geography (onGEO) Professional Certificate Courses

June 16, 2022

Registration is now open for onGEO's upcoming professional certificate courses. The session features three Core courses, which count toward earning a Professional Certificate in GIS! We're pleased to announce, that this session we are offering our brand-new Digital Image Processing course, written by Dr. David Lusch (Professor Emeritus in MSU-GEO and MSU-RS&GIS).

College Shines Diversity Spotlight on GEO Alumnus Anthony Knapp

College Shines Diversity Spotlight on GEO Alumnus Anthony Knapp

June 1, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer

Mr. Anthony Knapp is an MSU Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences alumnus, a statistician and demographer, who has worked on migration patterns amongst Asian Americans.

GEO Ph.D. Student Named Interim Assistant Dean of Student Affairs

GEO Ph.D. Student Named Interim Assistant Dean of Student Affairs

May 31, 2022

Congratulations to GEO Ph.D. student Veda Hawkins on being named the Interim Assistant Dean of Student Affairs in the College of Social Science at Michigan State University.

onGEO Professional GIS Certificate Program to Launches Digital Image Processing Course

onGEO Professional GIS Certificate Program to Launches Digital Image Processing Course

May 24, 2022

A new fully online professional course, written by Dr. David Lusch (Professor Emeritus in MSU-GEO and MSU-RS&GIS), has been launched. Our Digital Image Processing course is designed to meet the digital imagery exploitation and analysis needs of a wide variety of GIS and remote-sensing personnel.

MSU Geography Doctoral Candidate Earns Scholarship to Fluxcourse

MSU Geography Doctoral Candidate Earns Scholarship to Fluxcourse

April 29, 2022

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences offers congratulations to Ph.D. candidate Gabriela Shirkey, who has been sponsored by AmeriFlux to attend FluxCourse.

Elizabeth Mack Wins William R. "Randy" Boggess Award for Paper of the Year by Journal of American Water Resources Association

Elizabeth Mack Wins William R. "Randy" Boggess Award for Paper of the Year by Journal of American Water Resources Association

April 26, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Dr. Elizabeth Mack on winning the William R. "Randy" Boggess Award for the best paper of the year published in the Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA).

Announcing the 2022 MSU Geography Award Recipients

Announcing the 2022 MSU Geography Award Recipients

April 25, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University offers a hearty congratulations to all of our 2022 GEO Award recipients recognizing student academic achievement.

Geography Senior Receives Board of Trustees' Award for Academic Excellence

Geography Senior Receives Board of Trustees' Award for Academic Excellence

April 22, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is proud to announce that graduating senior in Environmental Geography, Nicholas J. Catanzaro has received an MSU Board of Trustees’ Award for Academic Excellence.

Spartan Geographer Earns Dean’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence Staff Award

Spartan Geographer Earns Dean’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence Staff Award

April 14, 2022

Congratulations to Geography Ph.D. student and Assistant Director of Academic and Student Affairs with the MSU College of Social Science on receiving the Dean's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence Staff Award.

New for 2022: Coastlines and People Study Away Student Experience

New for 2022: Coastlines and People Study Away Student Experience

April 6, 2022

Immerse yourself in real-time research along Michigan’s beloved coast in Traverse City Michigan!

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Earns Award in Asian Studies Paper Competition

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Earns Award in Asian Studies Paper Competition

March 24, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences offers a hearty congratulations to Ph.D. student Mehmet Eroğlu on receiving an Honorable Mention award in the 2022 Shao Chang Lee Best Paper Competition for a graduate student paper.

Professional GIS Certificate and Drone Test Prep Courses Offered this Summer

Professional GIS Certificate and Drone Test Prep Courses Offered this Summer

March 22, 2022

The Department’s onGEO program offers two 7-week long sessions of Professional GIS Certificate Courses over the summer semester. Registration is now open.

Undergraduate (for University credit) Courses Offered Online this Summer

Undergraduate (for University credit) Courses Offered Online this Summer

March 21, 2022

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences is offering a variety of Undergraduate and Graduate courses online this summer. Enrollment is open for both summer sessions.

MSU Geography Ph.D. Candidate Receives COGS Disciplinary Leadership Award

MSU Geography Ph.D. Candidate Receives COGS Disciplinary Leadership Award

March 15, 2022

Congratulations to Geography Ph.D. candidate Gabriela Shirkey on being awarded a 2022-23 Council of Graduate Students (COGS) Disciplinary Leadership Award. 

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Lands Multiple Awards

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Lands Multiple Awards

March 10, 2022

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University extends a hearty congratulation to Ph.D. student Ana Rivera-Rivera for receiving a series of three awards in the past few weeks.

Spartan Geographer Jen Fry Named Diversity Torch

Spartan Geographer Jen Fry Named Diversity Torch

February 24, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer

The Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Spartan Geographer Jen Fry on being named a Diversity Torch by the MSU College of Social Science.

Spartan Geographers Help Address Big Climate Change Questions

Spartan Geographers Help Address Big Climate Change Questions

February 23, 2022 - Emilie Lorditch

As the planet experiences the effects of climate change, questions arise about the future of our planet and daily life in general. Many of the major challenges related to a changing climate and their impact on society have Spartan Geographers Kyla Dahlin and Ethan Theuerkauf working on solutions.

Judy Olson, Past Department Chair and Professor Emerita, Named 2021 AAG Fellow

Judy Olson, Past Department Chair and Professor Emerita, Named 2021 AAG Fellow

January 21, 2022

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences offers hearty congratulations to past Department Chair and Professor Emerita Dr. Judy Olson on being named a 2021 Fellow by the American Association of Geographers (AAG).

AGU Helps Shine a Spotlight on MSU Coastlines and People Projects

AGU Helps Shine a Spotlight on MSU Coastlines and People Projects

January 20, 2022

A recent article featured in Eos, the science news magazine published by the American Geophysical Union, is helping to shine a spotlight on important MSU projects currently underway as part of the Coastlines and People thematic area.

MSU Geographers Awarded 2021 Project of the Year by Department of Defense Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program

MSU Geographers Awarded 2021 Project of the Year by Department of Defense Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program

January 7, 2022

Congratulations to Drs. Sharon Zhong and Michael Kiefer for research recently named a 2021 Project of the Year by the U.S. Department of Defense Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program.

Calling All Spartan Geography Alumni: Share Your Latest Updates

Calling All Spartan Geography Alumni: Share Your Latest Updates

January 6, 2022

Are you a proud member of the Spartan Geography Alumni community? Please consider sharing an update for the 2022 Spartan Geographer Newsletter.

Ph.D. Student Wins Prestigious 2021 MSU Outstanding Advising Administrator Award

Ph.D. Student Wins Prestigious 2021 MSU Outstanding Advising Administrator Award

December 6, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer

Veda Hawkins, Geography Ph.D. student and the Assistant Director of Academic and Student Affairs within the Michigan State University College of Social Science, has won the 2021 MSU Outstanding Advising Administrator Award. This university-wide award recognizes advising staff who demonstrate the utmost commitment and exceptionalism towards students and the overall Spartan community.

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Jen Fry Featured in Sports Illustrated 100 Influential Black Women in Sports Series

MSU Geography Ph.D. Student Jen Fry Featured in Sports Illustrated 100 Influential Black Women in Sports Series

November 30, 2021

The MSU Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences congratulates Spartan Geographer and veteran volleyball coach Jen Fry on her recent spotlight by Sports Illustrated as one of 100 Influential Black Women in Sports.

David Roy Makes List of Most Highly Cited Researchers for Third Straight Year

David Roy Makes List of Most Highly Cited Researchers for Third Straight Year

November 22, 2021

Dr. David Roy has been named to the list of most highly cited researchers in the world for a third consecutive year.

MSU, UM Secure $5.4M for Continued Great Lakes Climate Adaptation Work

MSU, UM Secure $5.4M for Continued Great Lakes Climate Adaptation Work

November 1, 2021

The Great Lakes Integrated Sciences and Assessments initiative, known as GLISA, has been awarded $5.4 million from the Climate Program Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to conduct climate change research in the Great Lakes for an additional five years.

MSU Research Suggests Homicide Rates Decline as City Greenery Increases

MSU Research Suggests Homicide Rates Decline as City Greenery Increases

October 28, 2021

A recent study led by MSU Geography Ph.D. student Jonnell Sanciangco sought to determine whether increases in greenery in U.S. cities predicted fewer homicides over a 30-year time span.

Geography Alumna Wins NIH LRP Award for Health Disparities Research

Geography Alumna Wins NIH LRP Award for Health Disparities Research

October 27, 2021

MSU Geography Alumna and current Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School Dr. Dee Jordan has won a National Institutes of Health Loan Repayment Program award.

Who Should Manage Changing Great Lakes Shorelines? MSU Survey Asks for Public Input

Who Should Manage Changing Great Lakes Shorelines? MSU Survey Asks for Public Input

October 26, 2021 - Diane Huhn

Researchers at Michigan State University are calling on residents, who live or own property along the Great Lakes, to provide input regarding the management of Great Lakes shorelines in a new survey. A team of coastal scientists within the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at MSU have been working to better understand future challenges facing coastal environments, especially those brought about by human activity and climate change. Research from this team is taking a scientific approach to inform policy and management of Michigan's coastal communities.

MSU Geographer Jeff Andresen Discusses Climate Change on MSU Today

MSU Geographer Jeff Andresen Discusses Climate Change on MSU Today

October 6, 2021

Jeff Andresen, Geography professor and state climatologist, joined Russ White for a conversation on Climate Change during a recent episode of MSU Today.

Interested in Studying Social Science in Rome? Apply for the Summer 2022 MSU Education Aboard Program

Interested in Studying Social Science in Rome? Apply for the Summer 2022 MSU Education Aboard Program

September 28, 2021

The MSU Study Abroad Social Science in Rome program will take place will take place from June 4, 2022, to July 2, 2022. Apply by March 1, 2022.

MSU researchers determine rapid water level rise driving unprecedented habitat loss along Great Lakes coasts

MSU researchers determine rapid water level rise driving unprecedented habitat loss along Great Lakes coasts

August 18, 2021

Coastlines of the Great Lakes are constantly changing, but new MSU research led by Ethan Theuerkauf indicates that increased fluctuations in lake levels due to climate change will likely drive sustained habitat loss. That’s why MSU geographers are sharing their research with coastal communities to help them prepare.

Geography PhD Student Spotlights Community Strength During Michigan’s Inaugural Native Breastfeeding Week

Geography PhD Student Spotlights Community Strength During Michigan’s Inaugural Native Breastfeeding Week

August 16, 2021

Angie Sanchez, a graduate student in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences, not only applauds the recognition the State of Michigan is shining on the importance of breastfeeding but was part of efforts to bring Native Breastfeeding Week to fruition in Michigan.

Goodwin Receives Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award

Goodwin Receives Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award

July 20, 2021

Please join the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences in congratulating Robert Goodwin on receiving a Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award.

MSU Geography PhD Student Publishes Guidebook for First-Generation College Students

MSU Geography PhD Student Publishes Guidebook for First-Generation College Students

July 19, 2021

Kionna Henderson, a third-year doctoral student in Geography, has penned a guidebook for first-generation college students.

Alumni Spotlight: How a Passion for Sustainability Became a Distinguished Dissertation

Alumni Spotlight: How a Passion for Sustainability Became a Distinguished Dissertation

June 28, 2021

As a first-generation college graduate from a single mother household in Puerto Rico, MSU Geography Alumna Dr. Cristina Gauthier-Hernandez received no guidance when it came to navigating her career path. After being encouraged to simply choose a “profitable” career, she studied engineering and eventually tied her degree to her interest for sustainability. Despite any setback she faced, Gauthier persevered and surpassed her career goals, eventually receiving honorable recognition for her work.

MSU Geographer Secures $1.1M NSF CAREER Award to Map Forest Carbon Uptake

MSU Geographer Secures $1.1M NSF CAREER Award to Map Forest Carbon Uptake

June 21, 2021

Under a Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program award of nearly $1.2M from the National Science Foundation (NSF), Kyla Dahlin, an assistant professor in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences, will lead research that takes a new approach to unravel the challenge of measuring carbon uptake, especially at large scales.

Moore Receives MSU Graduate School Mentoring Award

Moore Receives MSU Graduate School Mentoring Award

June 17, 2021

Congratulations to Dr. Nathan Moore, associate professor and graduate program director in the Department of Geography, Environmental, and Spatial Sciences, for receiving The Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award for a senior faculty member.

Study suggests evidence for Native American survival techniques in Great Lakes region

Study suggests evidence for Native American survival techniques in Great Lakes region

June 15, 2021

Recent work along the Spoonville Peninsula in Southwest Michigan has uncovered what may be the most extensive collection of Upper Great Lakes cache pits ever to be excavated. According

The American Geographical Society Elects MSU Alumna Dr. Demetrice Jordan to Council

The American Geographical Society Elects MSU Alumna Dr. Demetrice Jordan to Council

June 11, 2021

Congratulations to MSU Geography Alumna Dr. Demetrice Jordan on being elected to the American Geographical Society (AGS) Council.

Michigan State University experts say Great Lakes water levels down, but the threat is far from over

Michigan State University experts say Great Lakes water levels down, but the threat is far from over

June 7, 2021 - Press Release

MSU geographers are studying how to help coastal communities, while calling on citizen scientists around the region in new, first of its kind, volunteer program

MSU Researchers Produce Publicly Available Dataset to Analyze Broadband Availability and Help Close the Digital Divide

MSU Researchers Produce Publicly Available Dataset to Analyze Broadband Availability and Help Close the Digital Divide

May 27, 2021 - Diane Huhn

Dr. Elizabeth Mack leads effort to make a much-anticipated open-source Broadband Integrated Time Series (BITS) dataset available to anyone wishing to work on analyzing FCC broadband availability data.

Shortridge to be named Interim Geography Chair

Shortridge to be named Interim Geography Chair

May 17, 2021

Dr. Mary Finn, Dean of the MSU College of Social Science, has announced that Ashton Shortridge, Professor of Geography, has accepted the position of Interim Chairperson of the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Science effective August 16, 2021.

MSU Social Scientists and Engineers Work Together for Sustainable Energy Solutions in the Amazon

MSU Social Scientists and Engineers Work Together for Sustainable Energy Solutions in the Amazon

May 12, 2021 - Diane Huhn

Social Scientists such as Emilio Moran are working with MSU Engineers to ensure that the needs of small communities, often negatively impacted by hydropower dam projects, are thoroughly considered in promising sustainable energy solutions in the Amazon.

Geography Associate Professor Pens Inaugural AAG Op-Ed News Feature

Geography Associate Professor Pens Inaugural AAG Op-Ed News Feature

May 7, 2021

Guo Chen, associate professor of Geography and Global Urban Studies at MSU, recently authored the first in a new section of the American Association of Geographers (AAG) Newsletter called Perspectives. The column aims to offer a platform for AAG members to discuss issues of relevance to geography.

College of Social Science - Outstanding Senior in GEO | Ryan Snider

College of Social Science - Outstanding Senior in GEO | Ryan Snider

May 4, 2021

Meet our 2021 Outstanding Senior, Ryan Snider!

Economic Geography is Coming this Summer!

Economic Geography is Coming this Summer!

April 15, 2021

onGEO and Dr. Liz Mack have created a fully online version of the Geography Department's popular Introduction of Economic Geography (Geo 113v) course. This course will be offered during the 2021 Summer I session with Kyle Redican (MSU-GEO) as the Instructor.

Announcing the 2021 MSU Geography Award Recipients

Announcing the 2021 MSU Geography Award Recipients

April 9, 2021

The Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University offers a hearty congratulations to all of our 2021 GEO Award recipients recognizing student academic achievement.

Chen Named Fulbright Global Scholar

Chen Named Fulbright Global Scholar

April 7, 2021

Congratulations to Dr. Jiquan Chen on being named a Fulbright Global Scholar. As part of this experience, Dr. Chen will spend two to three months each at host labs in Australia and Germany working to build a network of scholars for promoting the research frontiers of global warming potentials and ecosystem services of managed landscapes and will work towards publishing a textbook dealing with modern scientific hypothesis and experimental design across scales.

Enrollment Open for Professional Certificate onGEO Summer Sessions

Enrollment Open for Professional Certificate onGEO Summer Sessions

March 10, 2021

Enrollment opportunities for our slate of Online Geography (onGEO) Summer Professional Certificate courses are open!

Enrollment Opening Soon for Undergraduate onGEO Summer Sessions

Enrollment Opening Soon for Undergraduate onGEO Summer Sessions

March 9, 2021

Enrollment opportunities for our slate of onGEO Summer Undergraduate courses is right around the corner. Enrollment by appointment begins March 15, and open enrollment begins March 23.

NASA Project Studies How Urban Centers May Trap Birds During Migration

NASA Project Studies How Urban Centers May Trap Birds During Migration

March 4, 2021 - Diane Huhn

Michigan State University’s Geoffrey Henebry, professor in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences and the Center for Global Change and Earth Observations is teaming up with Colorado State University’s Kyle Horton, now an assistant professor in the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, to learn even more about the effects of cities as ecological traps for migrating birds.

Geography Alumnus Spearheads Publication of Online Black Geographers Anthology Database

Geography Alumnus Spearheads Publication of Online Black Geographers Anthology Database

March 1, 2021

The Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University applauds recent Geography alumnus and current Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School Dr. Demetrice "Dee" Jordan for her work in partnership with the American Geographical Society on the publication of a significant resource highlighting Black Geographers.

Chen Receives Outstanding Service Award

Chen Receives Outstanding Service Award

February 25, 2021

Guo Chen received an Outstanding Service Award from the American Association of Geographers (AAG) China Geography Specialty Group.

Dr. Joe Darden Named Diversity Champion

Dr. Joe Darden Named Diversity Champion

February 16, 2021

Congratulations to Dr. Joe Darden on being named a Diversity Champion by the College of Social Science.

PhD Student Earns Cryosphere Innovation Award from AGU

PhD Student Earns Cryosphere Innovation Award from AGU

February 5, 2021

Congratulations to Ph.D. student Raven Mitchell for receiving the Cryosphere Innovation Award for Students from the American Geophysical Union (AGU).

MSU Scholar Emilio Moran Discusses Innovative Interdisciplinary Work Focused on Off-grid Hydropower in Brazil

MSU Scholar Emilio Moran Discusses Innovative Interdisciplinary Work Focused on Off-grid Hydropower in Brazil

December 17, 2020

World-renowned social anthropologist Emilio Moran discusses his latest work in the Brazilian Amazon with Russ White on a recent episode of MSU Today.

Geography Professor David Roy among the world's most highly cited researchers

Geography Professor David Roy among the world's most highly cited researchers

December 8, 2020

Dr. David P. Roy, Professor of Geography and member of the Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, has been named one of the most highly cited researchers in the world. Dr. Roy is one of 9 Michigan State University researchers to be recognized in the 2020 Highly Cited Researchers List compiled by Clarivate Analytics.

Angie Sanchez, Ph.D. Student Named Diversity Torch

Angie Sanchez, Ph.D. Student Named Diversity Torch

November 2, 2020

Congratulations to Angie Sanchez on being name a Diversity Torch by the Michigan State University College of Social Science. Angie is a PhD student in the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences. Her dissertation research focuses on breastfeeding access for women in Indigenous communities throughout Michigan.

Chen Co-Authors Book Enabling International Audience a Detailed Exploration of China's Grassland Ecosystems

Chen Co-Authors Book Enabling International Audience a Detailed Exploration of China's Grassland Ecosystems

October 7, 2020 - Diane Huhn

Jiquan Chen of the Center for Global Change and Earth Observations (CGCEO) and the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University, has joined several scholars in publishing the first in a planned series of volumes enabling the broader international community to explore the ecosystems of China.

MSU Interdisciplinary Team Secures $3.2M National Science Foundation Convergence Grant to Empower Off-grid Communities

MSU Interdisciplinary Team Secures $3.2M National Science Foundation Convergence Grant to Empower Off-grid Communities

October 6, 2020 - Diane Huhn

Michigan State University Researcher Emilio Moran will lead a team in the development of a convergent framework offering non-dam hydropower as a sustainable energy solution for off-grid communities while empowering and engaging residents throughout the process.

Grant Will Support Native American Breastfeeding Initiative in Michigan

Grant Will Support Native American Breastfeeding Initiative in Michigan

September 22, 2020

Congratulations to Angie Sanchez, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences, on the award of “Native American Breastfeeding Initiative Embracing Culture,” a grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.

Dr. Amber Pearson to Present on Blue and Green Spaces at 2020 SHIFT Summit

Dr. Amber Pearson to Present on Blue and Green Spaces at 2020 SHIFT Summit

September 16, 2020

Dr. Amber Pearson will present at the 2020 SHIFT Summit in October.

Ana Rivera Named Diversity Torch Recipient

Ana Rivera Named Diversity Torch Recipient

September 15, 2020

Congratulations to Ana Rivera on being recognized as a Diversity Torch recipient this month from the College of Social Science. Rivera is a graduate student in Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences who is committed to improving urban environments through the use of geospatial science.

College Shines Diversity Spotlight on Dee Jordan as She Readies for Postdoc Fellowship

College Shines Diversity Spotlight on Dee Jordan as She Readies for Postdoc Fellowship

August 20, 2020

Congratulations to recent alum Dee Jordan as she begins her Postdoctoral Fellowship with Harvard Medical School and is also spotlighted by the MSU College of Social Science for serving as a model of excellence in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Elissa Slotkin Seeking Federal Funding for MSU-led Work on Systemic Inequalities

Elissa Slotkin Seeking Federal Funding for MSU-led Work on Systemic Inequalities

August 20, 2020 - Diane Huhn

U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat who represents the 8th district, is interested in seeking federal funding for research spearheaded by MSU Geography Professor Joe T. Darden that was disseminated on an annual basis between 1984-1993 in a report known as the “State of Black Michigan.”

MSU Geography Addresses Disparate Impacts

MSU Geography Addresses Disparate Impacts

June 5, 2020

At this time of increased awareness of racial injustice, the MSU Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences is committed to proactively addressing the societal and institutional disparate impact on Blacks and Other People of Color. - Alan Arbogast, Chair.

Alan Arbogast and Kevin McKeehan Participate in Multi-Phased Research to Understand Michigan’s Dynamic Coastal Dunes

Alan Arbogast and Kevin McKeehan Participate in Multi-Phased Research to Understand Michigan’s Dynamic Coastal Dunes

June 2, 2020

In conjunction with the Michigan Environmental Council, the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences, and the Department of Community Sustainability at Michigan State University recently concluded a phase of ongoing research focused on Michigan’s coastal dunes. This project is the result of a partnership between the state of Michigan, its Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), the Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan State University, and citizen scientists across the state.

Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program

Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program

May 31, 2020

The Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program is now recruiting students planning to start graduate school in the 2021 - 22 academic year.

Congratulations to Our 2020 Minors in Geographic Information Science

Congratulations to Our 2020 Minors in Geographic Information Science

May 18, 2020

The Department of Geography at Michigan State University congratulates all of the 2020 graduates who minored in Geographic Information Science. MSU has a long tradition of excellence in GIS.

Celebrating Our 2020 Geography Graduates

Celebrating Our 2020 Geography Graduates

May 11, 2020

All of us at the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences want to congratulate the Class of 2020. We are so proud of the commitment this class has demonstrated and the accomplishments they have achieved.

Mapping a Virus: Visualizing the Geography of COVID-19 in Michigan

Mapping a Virus: Visualizing the Geography of COVID-19 in Michigan

May 7, 2020 - Diane Huhn

As cases of the novel coronavirus began spreading across the globe earlier this year, Jonnell Sanciangco, a Michigan State University (MSU) doctoral candidate specializing in spatial methodologies in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences, began a routine of checking in on one of the few websites sharing daily COVID-19-related data at the time. He quickly decided to create a similar site for Michigan.

MSU Geography Faculty Contribute to Book about Landscape Dynamics Across Central Asia

MSU Geography Faculty Contribute to Book about Landscape Dynamics Across Central Asia

May 6, 2020 - Diane Huhn

Important research about the drylands of the greater Central Asia region by several professors in the Michigan State University Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences has recently been featured in a book published by Springer Nature. Editors of the volume include Jiquan Chen and Geoffrey Henebry,

Geography Department Welcomes Diane Huhn

Geography Department Welcomes Diane Huhn

April 6, 2020

We are very excited to announce that Diane Huhn has joined the College of Social Science in the role of Communication Coordinator for the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences (GEO), the Center for Global Change and Earth Observations (CGCEO) and the Environmental Science and Policy Program (ESPP).

This Year's Geography Award Recipients

This Year's Geography Award Recipients

March 31, 2020

Congratulations to our 2020 GEO Award recipients recognizing student academic achievement.

Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program

Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program

March 30, 2020

The Advancing Geography Through Diversity Program is now recruiting students planning to start graduate school in the 2021 - 22 academic year.

2020 Beta Chi Chapter of GTU Initiates

2020 Beta Chi Chapter of GTU Initiates

March 29, 2020

Congratulations to our 2020 Beta Chi Chapter of GTU Initiates.

Randy Schaetzl Receives Cross-Disciplinary Research Award

Randy Schaetzl Receives Cross-Disciplinary Research Award

March 27, 2020

Congratulations to Randy Schaetzl for being awarded the MSU College of Social Science Faculty Cross-Disciplinary Research Award. 

Frederick "Fritz" Nelson Receives Award from AAG Marcus Fund

Frederick "Fritz" Nelson Receives Award from AAG Marcus Fund

March 13, 2020

Congratulations to Dr. Fritz Nelson on being named a recipient of the 2020 Marcus Fund for Physical Geography.

MSU Suspends Face-to-Face Instruction

MSU Suspends Face-to-Face Instruction

March 11, 2020

MSU is suspending face-to-face Instruction due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Dee Jordan Selected to Inaugural Cohort of MSU Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society

Dee Jordan Selected to Inaugural Cohort of MSU Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society

February 28, 2020

Congratulations to Dee Jordan on being selected to be a member of the inaugural cohort of Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society members at Michigan State University.

Fire Behavior and Smoke Dispersion in Forested Environments: Don't Ignore Turbulent Fluxes of Heat and Momentum

Fire Behavior and Smoke Dispersion in Forested Environments: Don't Ignore Turbulent Fluxes of Heat and Momentum

February 20, 2020

Northern Research Station scientists are investigating how fire-induced atmospheric turbulence can impact heat and momentum fluxes in the vicinity of wildland fires in forested environments.

Calling For GEO Award Applications!

Calling For GEO Award Applications!

January 23, 2020

It’s the time of year that we start looking ahead to the slate of Department awards, and solicit membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the International Geography Honor Society.

Congratulations to Jiquan Chen for being a recipient of the William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award

Congratulations to Jiquan Chen for being a recipient of the William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award

January 6, 2020

For his many accomplishments as a scholar and mentor and his extensive service to MSU and his profession, Jiquan Chen is richly deserving of the William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award.