School of Planning, Design and Construction

Michigan State University is moving forward with the February 13 memorial, with construction scheduled to begin in May and completion anticipated this fall. Christman has been selected as the construction manager for the project.

The memorial design process has been both comprehensive and community-centered. In July 2024, MSU issued a public Request for Proposals (RFP) for artist concepts, drawing 22 submissions from across the country. From this pool, three designs were shortlisted for further consideration.

These finalist concepts were shared broadly with the MSU community through online surveys and campus displays, allowing students, faculty, staff, and alumni to provide feedback. In addition, the three victim families engaged in a more in-depth review of the proposals, ensuring their perspectives remained central to the process.

Taking all feedback into account, the memorial committee selected a final design: a contemplative fountain to be located within the Old Horticulture Gardens on North Campus. The design team includes landscape designers Carlos Portillo, based in Toronto, and Jessica Guinto, based in New York City. Supporting the project are Fishbeck, providing local engineering services, and Dan Euser Waterarchitecture (DEW), leading the fountain design. Custom marble elements will be fabricated by Quarra in Wisconsin.

The fountain represents a unique and technically ambitious undertaking. Designed to operate year-round, including through Michigan winters, it incorporates complex mechanical and heating systems - potentially making it the first installation of its kind in the state.

A deeply personal element is also being incorporated into the memorial. Each of the victim families is collaborating with a bronze artist to create small, meaningful pieces honoring their loved ones. These elements will be integrated into the fountain, ensuring that the memorial reflects both collective remembrance and individual stories.

As construction begins this spring, the university community continues to move forward together in remembrance, reflection, and care.