College of Arts & Letters Emergency Fund 

A financial emergency can derail a student’s education in an instant. Whether it’s an unexpected medical bill, a car repair that threatens their ability to get to class, or the risk of eviction, many students face urgent crises with no safety net. The College of Arts & Letters Student Emergency Fund provides immediate relief, ensuring financial hardship doesn’t force students to put their education on hold. Since March 2021, this fund has awarded over $61,750 in emergency aid to College of Arts & Letters students, with grants ranging from $500 to $2,000—each one a lifeline helping students stay on track toward their degrees. Your support ensures we can continue meeting these critical needs.

Urgent Support for Unexpected Challenges

Every year, we receive requests from students who are in urgent need due to unforeseen financial hardships. The most common requests for emergency funding include:

• Rent assistance, especially for those on the verge of eviction
• Textbooks and essential course materials
• Car repairs and unexpected transportation costs
• Bills and other essential expenses
• Replacing broken technology (phones, laptops) needed for coursework
• Basic needs such as food, utilities, and medical expenses due to sudden job loss

Through the generosity of donors like you, we have been able to provide immediate, life-changing support to students.

“I’ve been working since I was 16, and losing my job was really hard. My parents try to help out as much as they can, but it’s up to me to support myself and pay my tuition. Receiving this scholarship showed me that MSU is a community of individuals helping others, and that it’s OK to lean on others now and again when you need help.” — Kara Sollars, College of Arts & Letters Student Emergency Fund recipient

Why We Believe in This Fund

"Working with the emergency funds, we get the chance to learn about students who have invested their immense passion, energy, and talents into pursuing their education and their goals, who just need a little support to keep making progress toward their degree. The emergency fund is available year-round and has a huge direct impact on the lives and education of students with financial needs." — Ellen Moll, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Studies

"The emergency fund exists to help students who are doing everything they possibly can in order to complete their degree but are still running into unexpected roadblocks. Having seen the gratitude and relief from awardees firsthand, I can confidently say the impact is monumental." — Carrie Lewis, Academic Operations Undergraduate Studies Coordinator

"Not all of the problems our students face can be solved with money, but some can—and having this fund at our disposal gives us a vital tool to provide targeted, short-term help that can have a big impact for students, especially when it provides relief related to basic needs such as food, transportation, or housing." — Jon Ritz, Director of Student Wellness

"Since joining this team, I’ve seen how invisible struggles—an unexpected medical bill, car repair, a missing paycheck—can derail a student’s future. The CAL Emergency Fund is a lifeline. It provides immediate support at the most critical moments, showing students that they are cared for. They’re not alone. It keeps doors open, so temporary hardships don’t become permanent setbacks." — Deric McNish, Associate Professor & Director of the MFA in Acting program and Director of Undergraduate Research

Give Now and Be the Difference in a Student’s Life

Your gift today ensures that College of Arts & Letters students can overcome unexpected challenges and continue pursuing their education. Even a small donation can make a significant impact, keeping a student housed, fed, or equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

Make a Gift by Mail:

University Advancement
Spartan Way
535 Chestnut Road, Room 300
East Lansing, MI 48824

*Make check payable to Michigan State University and write “Appeal 25OOPCF1GTALE” in the note section.

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