Michigan’s 15 public universities generate nearly $45 billion in annual economic impact with Michigan State University supporting $9.7 billion, according to the Michigan Association of State Universities Economic Impact Report released in 2026. Gretchen Whitmer named Aug. 4 Arts, Culture and Humanities Day in Michigan to recognize and promote the vital role arts, culture and the humanities play in enriching our state and shaping our future. How do the arts, culture and humanities support Michigan’s economic future? How do the arts, culture and humanities enrich the lives of Spartans and Michiganders? These partnerships demonstrate that arts, humanities, languages and culture are essential partners in addressing society’s most pressing challenges.