Michigan State University is committed to supporting our community amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas. We condemn the recent acts of violence and share the concern of many in our community regarding the staggering loss of life in Israel and Gaza. MSU strongly opposes hate, bigotry, antisemitism and Islamophobia and the way these may manifest into fear and violence.

While this situation unfolds abroad, the safety of our campus community is a top priority. Anyone receiving targeted or personal threats, as distinct from free speech, should immediately contact the MSU Department of Police and Public Safety at (517) 355-2221. In an emergency, call or text 911. MSU DPPS is collaborating with impacted groups to understand community needs and take appropriate action and is prepared to provide additional security on campus as requested.

Let us remember to support one another and acknowledge that we may each be affected differently. Colleagues in Student Life and Engagement, Office of the Provost, International Studies and Programs, Office for Global Health, Safety and Security, Michael and Elaine Serling Institute for Jewish Studies and Modern Israel, Muslim Studies Program, and others have reached out and will continue to be available with information, resources, and support for those Spartans who are impacted. 

Questions and answers

What is the university doing to keep campus safe during heightened global tension?

The physical safety of our university community is our priority, and anyone receiving any targeted or personal threat, as distinct from free speech, should immediately contact the MSU Department of Police and Public Safety at (517) 355-2221. In an emergency, call or text 911. Additionally, the community is encouraged to download the SafeMSU App to access valuable safety resources. MSU DPPS is collaborating with impacted groups to understand community needs and take appropriate action and is prepared to provide additional security on campus as requested. The department stands ready to investigate any criminal activity or hate crime.

Does MSU have any student or faculty travelers in Israel or Gaza?

MSU currently has no sponsored travelers in the area and will not support official travel until the security situation is improved. MSU continues to review information from local partners on the ground, including our medical and security evacuation provider International SOS and the U.S. Department of State (U.S. Embassy and Overseas Security Advisory Council).

MSU is developing guidance in this complex environment to help the university determine when travel to Israel may resume. MSU travelers with further questions should contact the Office for Global Health, Safety and Security for guidance, including proposed travel to bordering nations and territories or any nearby destinations that may be drawn into the conflict.

How is the university providing support and guidance to campus?

Groups across campus are poised to gather resources, including providing dialogue guides and offering opportunities to join listening circles to help our community process recent events, find the care they need and engage in conversation. Students seeking resources can visit Counseling and Psychiatric Services or call the crisis hotline at (517) 355-8270 and press “1” at the prompt. Staff and faculty are encouraged to visit the Employee Assistance Program.

In addition, the Office of Student Support and Accountability regularly assists students who are experiencing situations that may interrupt their academic and campus life. The office can be reached by email ossa@msu.edu or phone (517) 884-0789.