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MSU Trustees Raise Concerns Over New Policy
Tate Survance
Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:30:18 EDT
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Two members of the Michigan State University Board of Trustees have been formally censured after declining to sign the board's newly adopted Code of Ethics and Conduct.
Trustees Mike Balow and Rema Vassar refused to acknowledge the policy, which calls on board members to support institutional decisions, protect the university's reputation, and avoid actions that could undermine board actions. As a result, both were barred from attending last month's Mackinac Policy Conference using university credentials.
Balow and Vassar argue the policy raises concerns about free speech and have urged fellow trustees to revisit the measure. Vassar has also announced plans to pursue legal action against the university, alleging discrimination.
The developments came during the board's meeting in Benton Harbor, where trustees also approved a $3.8 billion operating budget and set tuition rates for the 2026-27 academic year. The session marked the first full board meeting since President Kevin Guskiewicz announced he would be leaving Michigan State to become president of Clemson University.
