© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

MSU considers on-campus interment site for burial ashes

Flickr - Daniel Ramirez

The Michigan State University Alumni Association has begun asking its members a delicate question: if they could, would they like to have their remains interred on the MSU campus when they die? Their survey is designed to see if there’s enough interest to justify construction of such a place. Their description paints a picture of a peaceful garden, “complete with strolling walkways and reflection benches”, and a columbarium.A columbarium is a place where a small portion of a person’s cremains can be placed after cremation.

Current State’s Scott Pohl talks with the executive director of the MSU Alumni Association, Scott Westerman, who says the notion of building a columbarium at MSU is not new. If built, MSU’s would not be the first on an American college campus.

Scott Pohl has maintained an on-call schedule reporting for WKAR following his retirement after 36 years on the air at the station.
Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.