2025–2026 DRN Events Calendar

From writing retreats to community gatherings, the Diversity Research Network’s annual programming fosters collaboration, creativity, and connection across Michigan State University. This calendar includes all scheduled events for 2025–2026, grouped for clarity, with special highlights for the DRN 10th Year Celebratory Events.

Writing Spaces

All Writing Spaces are from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

September 12, 2025
October 10, 2025
October 24, 2025
November 7, 2025
January 20, 2026
February 13, 2026
March 20, 2026
April 17, 2026

10th Year Celebratory Events

Learn at Lunch: DRN Early Self-Study and Evaluative Data [10th Year Celebratory Event]
August 7, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Zoom (Online Meeting)

DRN LAP Showcase [10th Year Celebratory Event]
September 15, 2025 | 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Lincoln Room, Kellogg Center

The Way Forward [10th Year Celebratory Event]
October 14, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Multipurpose Room A (RM 1015), Multicultural Center

A Decade of Impact: DRN Celebratory Dinner [10th Year Celebratory Event]
November 13, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Jackson Lounge, Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Welcome & Informational

New Faculty and Academic Staff Orientation – August 20, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
DRN Informational Webinar – September 4, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Networking & Community-Building

2nd Fridays with Dr. Teresa Mastin (Invitation Only) – Monthly, Sep–Apr | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
DRN Fall Reception – September 25, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Faculty Study Break – April 8, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Scholarly Recognition & Visibility

LAP Showcase – September 15, 2025 | 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Writing Retreats

Writer’s Mafungo – May 31 – June 3, 2026 | All-Day Retreat
Summer Stay Writers Retreat – June 15 – 17, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 5:15 PM

Other Notable Dates

LAP Application Opens – May 1, 2026 | Opens at 12:00 AM