About

MSU Extension has always been a beacon in our communities.

But lately, we've seen a shift. The University's policies are starting to feel less about the people of Michigan and more about the bottom line. The result? Our voices, the people who actually live and work in these communities, were getting lost.

Over the past two years, 40 of Michigan's 83 counties saw 4-H staff turnover, with some losing multiple employees. That’s a massive blow to continuity and trust in the communities we serve. The difficulty in recruiting and retaining staff is a direct result of not meeting the needs of our team.

We formed a Union to change that.

With our Union, we can advocate for better conditions, which helps us attract and keep the quality people Michigan's communities deserve.

On February 24, 2025, MSU Extension employees in two units voted yes

in a landmark election, MSU Extension employees voted to join UNTF as Extension United Local 1855.

This is a new chapter for MSU Extension, built on a foundation of community and a shared vision for a better future.