College of Agriculture & Natural Resources ANR Event Services

MSU Extension ANR Event Services has a variety of resources to offer your guidance on event planning. Don't be hesitant to reach out for help - event planning is a big task and requires careful and strategic planning.

Event Planning Timelines

If you are ready to start planning an event, download this timeline/to-do list template to help get you started: Template - Event Planning Timeline.

For virtual events, you may want to review the Virtual Event Planning Timeline Template.

DEI in Action: Developing, Planning and Facilitating Educational Programs and Events

This three-part document was developed to guide MSU Extension employees in creating and delivering educational materials and programs as well as event planning in a way that reflects our values and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

The first section focuses on considerations and strategies for facilitating or delivering programming. The second section focuses on the development of educational materials or products. The last section focuses on event planning considerations. An appendix of useful sites for obtaining diverse images and of useful websites is also included.

We consider this a living document and recognize it may evolve with time. Please do not hesitate to send feedback to Anne Baker or Kendra Moyses.

 Download File

Hybrid Events: Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering planning a hybrid event to accommodate both in-person and virtual attendees, we suggest that you read through the answers to these common questions to gain a better understanding of what hybrid events require.

A location and equipment checklist for hybrid or blended events is also available on the Organizational Development website.

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MSU Extension Program/Event Planning Resources

Civil Rights: This Civil Rights website provides a number of resources that can answer your questions on MSU Extension Civil Rights Policy and Procedures, anti-discrimination statement use, use and copies of the “And Justice for All” programming poster, civil rights law and bias-free communication, etc.

Communications & Marketing: Find information and templates that can be used to help with your event/program planning.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: MSU Extension and the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) are committed to a culturally inclusive, safe and supportive environment that is free from any and all forms of discrimination, bias, stereotyping, harassment and assault. Find resources and information related to DEI topics and implementation on this page.

Educational Technology: As technology resources are becoming more readily available to target audiences, considerable focus is shifting towards distance learning methodologies. The resources available on these pages help highlight and explain different options for integrating technology into programming/events.

Planning, Evaluation and Reporting: Find all the recommended and required information related to planning, evaluating and reporting programs/events.

Planning Online Programming: Using technology to offer programming online can be a challenge. The following guides on this page have been developed by teams across MSU Extension to help you in planning your online programming.

Virtual Programming: On this resource area you will find ideas, instructions, best practices, effective teaching practices, and a variety of virtual programming options. Examples include live in-person workshops along with Zoom participants, a live workshop with on-demand content, as well as a variety of other virtual options.

Volunteer Management: Thinking of engaging volunteers in your program or event? Be sure to check out the website on volunteer management to know the process and procedures to ensure the Volunteer Selection Process (VSP) is being followed and completed.