Driven by Purpose

For some Spartans, giving is a way to honor a loved one. For others, it is an opportunity to help students succeed or strengthen the institution that helped shape their lives.  

As part of Michigan State University’s Uncommon Will, Far Better World giving campaign, alumni and friends are investing in the future of research, education and innovation across campus. In the College of Natural Science, those investments are helping create new opportunities for students, support groundbreaking discoveries and strengthen the spaces where learning and collaboration happen every day.  

These stories reflect three different paths to philanthropy, united by a common desire to make a lasting difference. 

A Legacy Measured in People  

Randy Cowen (‘74) and Phyllis Green  

When Randy Cowen talks about giving, he often begins with his father. Dr. Jerry Cowen, a pioneering researcher who served in MSU’s physics department for over four decades. Cowen’s support is rooted in a desire to honor the man whose passion for scientific discovery helped shape generations of researchers at Michigan State University. That’s what drove him to fund the Randolph Cowen Quantum Laboratories in the Leinweber Center for Engineering and Digital Innovation and the Randy Cowen Distinguished Endowed Chair in Physics.  

“The fundamental drive is to honor my father by continuing to support the kind of primary research in physics that he was known for,” Cowen said.  

The gift grew from conversations with faculty members who described the need for additional laboratory space to support expanding research programs. The new laboratories will help researchers pursue advances in quantum science, a field with the potential to transform technology and society. But for Cowen, the true impact can be found in the people doing the work.  

“We love to see the team that has been built around the Cowen chairs, both faculty and their graduate students and postdocs, in the labs,” he said. “You can see and feel it in action when you visit the labs and talk with the team.”  

That sense of collaboration and curiosity is what he believes his father valued most. Supporting talented researchers and giving them the tools to succeed is what turns potential into discovery. 

Opening Doors for Future Physicians  

Phillip J. Collier, MD (‘87) and Tonya Cole Collier (‘87)  

Phillip and Tonya Collier know firsthand the value of support and encouragement. It’s a cultural legacy they are excited to foster. One of the ways they are continuing a culture of support and encouragement is through their philanthropy at MSU. This is reflected through their gift to the Charles Drew Science Scholars Program in the College of Natural Science. The initiative helps students navigate the challenges of rigorous academic programs while building a strong community of support.  

“The impact I hope to see is maintaining access for students like me, who have the drive and fortitude to go the distance in science and medicine,” Phillip Collier said.  

For the Colliers, investing in students is a way to help future scientists and physicians stay focused on their ambition. In addition to supporting the Drew Science Scholars Program, they created the “Dr. Phillip & Tonya Collier Family Scholarship in Natural Science,” which will become active through a future planned gift. This endowment honors their two daughters, both MSU alumna, recognizing their legacy as a Spartan family. It’s for those students who dream big but need the support to keep them on track. 

Creating Spaces for Collaborations  

Kirk Faber (‘69) and Celeste Faber  

For Kirk Faber, supporting MSU is a way of recognizing the role the university played in his life. “I wouldn’t have had my career if it wasn’t for MSU,” Faber said.  

That belief has guided his philanthropy for decades. His support of transformational projects across campus reflects a commitment to creating spaces where students, faculty and researchers can pursue new ideas. In the Plant and Environmental Sciences Building, his philanthropy is honored in the Kirk and Celeste Faber Lobby. In the Leinweber Center for Engineering and Digital Innovation, visitors are welcomed through the Faber Family Commons and the Kirk and Celeste Faber Plaza.  

Whether supporting advances in agriculture and environmental science or helping foster future technological breakthroughs, Faber sees these investments as opportunities to strengthen MSU’s impact. He believes these facilities can accelerate discovery while creating new opportunities for students and researchers alike.  

His philanthropy also reflects a shared commitment he held with his late wife, Celeste, whose belief in education and serving others help shape their giving.  

“Nothing is more valuable than education,” Faber said.  

He hopes the projects he supports will inspire future generations and create places where discovery can flourish. 

Want to make a difference?

To learn how your gift can make an impact in the College of Natural Science, contact:

Jessie Pung
Senior Director of Development
pungjes1@msu.edu
(305) 905-6460

College of Natural Science Advancement Office
Michigan State University
288 Farm Lane, Room 103
East Lansing, MI 48824