Hello, and welcome to the Michigan State University Canadian Studies Center!
The center was founded in 1958 at the direction of then-MSU President John A. Hannah to promote the academic study of Canada, and over time, its mission has expanded to include initiatives that support broader, university-wide engagement with Canada and Canadian partners.
Today, we are proud to continue the legacy established by President Hannah as the longest-serving university-affiliated center for the study of Canada in the United States, demonstrating MSU’s commitment to innovative teaching, research, and outreach related to Canada and the enduring US-Canada relationship.
More than 120 MSU faculty members are part of our Canadian Studies community, contributing expertise across a wide range of disciplines and addressing issues of shared importance to both countries. MSU faculty co-publish with Canadian peers more so than with faculty from any other country apart from China, and Canada remains the number one travel destination for MSU faculty and staff, demonstrating longstanding ties between MSU and Canada.
Through initiatives such as Canada Connect, we strengthen academic partnerships between MSU and Canadian universities to drive real-world problem-solving that benefits communities on both sides of the border. Our Canada Connect Policy Initiative brings MSU research and expertise to Michigan legislators and other stakeholders on issues that matter to our region, from trade and the economy to natural resources and the environment.
We also bring academic, business, government, and policy leaders together through our biennial CN Forum, which provides a space to discuss shared U.S. and Canadian priorities and identify opportunities for collaboration.
I invite you to explore our website, learn about our faculty and student opportunities, attend an upcoming event, and find ways to support our work. If you are interested in Canadian Studies or establishing or maintaining research partnerships with Canadian researchers or institutions, we encourage you to affiliate with the Center and connect with us.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Canadian Studies Center.
Rebecca Malouin
Director, Canadian Studies Center
Michigan State University
Fall 2026