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Education Sec. DeVos Invited To MSU Research Center Opening

Betsy DeVos photo
NPR
U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy Devos

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos has been invited to speak at the opening of the new Michigan State University Grand Rapids Research Center later this month.

MSU Grand Rapids Research Center artist rendering
Credit Courtesy Image / MSU College of Human Medicine
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MSU College of Human Medicine
The MSU College of Human Medicine will open the new Grand Rapids Research Center on Sept. 20.

MSU spokesman Jason Cody confirms the invitation and says that it’s his understanding that she has accepted.

MSU College of Human Medicine Communications Director Geri Kelley says there has not yet been a written confirmation from DeVos, and adds that calendars are subject to change.

The $88-million dollar research center in Grand Rapids was funded in part by a $10-million dollar gift from DeVos’s in-laws, Richard and Helen DeVos.

The $88-million dollar research center in Grand Rapids was funded in part by a $10-million dollar gift from DeVos’s in-laws, Richard and Helen DeVos.

MSU’s campus newspaper, the State News, reports that opposition to a DeVos appearance at the opening is already being voiced by students, faculty and staff, centering on her work to privatize education. A petition seeks withdrawal of the invitation, and there could be a protest if DeVos speaks at the September 20th event.

Scott Pohl is a general assignment news reporter and produces news features and interviews. He is also an alternate local host on NPR's "Morning Edition."
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