Greetings from the New Campus Archaeologist

A new year has just begun, and the campus is once again full of life. Since 1855, the Michigan State University campus has experienced an influx of students, faculty and staff during the end of August. There is a pleasant air of anticipation and excitement for new experiences and the old familiarity of the university. Over the past 150 years the campus has collected the marks of the students, whether it be through the photographs of the past or the items that have become buried underneath out feet. The new year is the beginning of hope for the future of ourselves and MSU, but also a reminder of the past and where we have come from. This is especially true for me, as I officially became the new Campus Archaeologist this semester.

The role of Campus Archaeologist is not only the mitigation of archaeological resources on campus, but also the protection of its history. The job entails focusing on the day-to-day of archaeological operations, which includes meeting with members of Physical Plant about ongoing construction and landscaping. I also direct and coordinate the archaeological and historical research that relates to the heritage of MSU. MSU is rich in archaeological information, and it is my job not only to protect and excavate this past, but also to relate this information to the wider campus and community.

I am extremely excited to take my place as Campus Archaeologist.  Although I am only a second year, MSU is my home and I look forward to continuing the tradition of protecting MSU’s archaeological heritage. My goal for my term as Campus Archaeologist is to keep everyone informed on what archaeological work is occurring on campus, as well as show the importance of this work. We have a large number of resources for keeping up to date on the work being done on campus, and I look forward to the involvement of the community in these projects. The previous Campus Archaeologists, Terry Brock and Chris Stawski have set high standards for this position, and I hope to continue this tradition.

We at MSU have the special opportunity of getting to understand how our campus has changed from its creation until now, and I hope to share this process of discovery and interpretation of the MSU past with you.

-Katy Meyers, Campus Archaeologist