Volunteers and Instructors
Impact the Grandparents University Experience
Grandparents University would not be successful without the work of many who give their time annually as instructors and volunteers in a host of capacities. Volunteering your time creates a memorable experience for future Spartans, alumni and friends of MSU.
Volunteer at Grandparents University
Grandparents University is a fun event, but it requires many people to make it happen. As a volunteer at the event, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the participants in a variety of different roles and assist with many aspects of the event.
For 2024, volunteer registration is scheduled to open in mid-April.
Information for All Volunteers
Staff and Volunteer Program Handbook
Photo/Video/Audio/Likeness Consent and Release
Be a Grandparents University Instructor
Information for All Instructors
Staff and Volunteer Program Handbook
Instructor Application:
The application period for 2024 is closed.
But it's never too early to think about a class you would like to teach for GPU 2025! If you're interested and/or would like to learn more, contact Nikki Hawthorne via email.
Desired Class Criteria:
- Classes that are geared towards an intergenerational audience – participants in the program are between the ages of 8 and 13 and grandparents and/or guardians.
- Classes that have an academic focus and are informative and interactive, incorporating visual, auditory and kinesthetic components.
- Classes that accommodate at least 20 participants.
Benefits of Participation:
- Showcase your area of expertise to a new generation of students and their grandparents.
- Participate in an experience so rewarding that 90% of our instructors have taught for multiple years.
- Demonstrate your commitment to MSU’s land grant mission through outreach and service to the community.
- For tenure system faculty, you may consider including this on the Form on Progress and Excellence in Reappointment, Promotion or Tenure Action (formerly Form D).
- Check out this video below to hear from an experienced GPU instructor on why this opportunity is so enriching.