For over 30 years, the MSU Literacy Colloquy has “brought nationally and internationally recognized scholars, educators and thought leaders to Michigan State University to engage in important conversations about literacy, equity, family engagement, research and educational transformation.”
For University Distinguished Professor of Language and Literacy Patricia A. Edwards, it is one of the most meaningful initiatives of her storied career.
“I have seen firsthand the tremendous impact the colloquy has had on doctoral students, classroom teachers, school leaders, faculty and community members,” Edwards said. “It has created spaces for critical dialogue, intellectual growth, mentorship and inspiration that extend far beyond a single lecture or event.”
Edwards knew it was important to secure the colloquy’s legacy for future Spartans and the communities that they would reach. How she chose to make this ambition a reality began with opening a door, almost literally.
A lasting investment
In spring 2026, Edwards finalized an estate gift with the MSU College of Education in which she gifted her physical house to MSU. The future sale of the property will fund her legacy in literacy.
“I chose to include my home in my estate plan because I wanted to make a lasting investment in literacy,” Edwards said.
Her gift will support the colloquy, incorporating both her professional life’s work and deepest personal commitments. It will be named the Dr. Patricia A. Edwards Literacy for All Colloquium, in her honor. Each year, funds will be used to support the initiative with any remaining funds put toward graduate student support in the Department of Teacher Education.
“My decision,” she shared, “was deeply connected to my belief that literacy changes lives. Throughout my career, I have worked to ensure that children, families and educators — particularly those from historically marginalized communities — have access to meaningful and equitable literacy opportunities. The colloquy embodies those same values.”
“Surprisingly easy and straightforward…”
At the forefront of any planned gift are the intentions of the donor. When reflecting on establishing her gift, Edwards shared, “the college’s development team and university planned giving professionals were thoughtful, respectful and extremely helpful in guiding me through the process. They answered my questions clearly and ensured that my wishes were carefully documented.”
Edwards added that it gave her peace of mind to know she could enjoy her home throughout her lifetime, knowing it would eventually support something she cares about deeply. Throughout the process, Edwards worked closely with the college’s development team to ensure that her gift honored her legacy of “supporting conversations and scholarship that challenge inequities, encourage innovation, center humanity, culture, and possibility within literacy education.”
Edwards’ gift stands as an example of what is possible when donors bring their unique desires in collaboration with development staff to create innovative ways to support the College of Education and the university.
“This gift represents not simply a financial contribution, but a statement of belief in the enduring importance of literacy, education and Michigan State University’s mission to serve communities through scholarship, outreach and leadership.”
To learn more about ways to celebrate your legacy in support of the College of Education and MSU, please contact Senior Director of Development Tonya Frisbey at 517-432-0417 or frisbey2@msu.edu.
Group photos courtesy of Dane Robison, ©TimeFramePhoto.com; headshot of Edwards comes from the MSU College of Education