© 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

Former Gov. Blanchard's Law Firm To Rep MSU In DC

James Blanchard, Janet Blanchard, John Lewis
Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU
Former Gov. Jim Blanchard (left), wife Janet (center) and Rep. John Lewis (D) Georgia on the right during a 2017 appearance on the Michigan State University campus.

Michigan State University has hired former Governor Jim Blanchard’s law firm to represent the university in Washington D.C.

Blanchard is a partner with DLA Piper. In a statement released by interim MSU President John Engler, the firm will lead MSU’s response to congressional inquiries related to Larry Nassar’s crimes while on the university’s faculty. The one-year agreement runs through next January.

When MSU Trustees named former Governor Engler as interim President, they also appointed Blanchard to serve as a special advisor.

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
Support Local Journalism in Mid-Michigan

WKAR delivers fact-based, independent journalism—free and accessible to all. No paywalls, no corporate influence—just trusted reporting that keeps our community informed. Your support makes this possible. Donate today.