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2026 Big Ten Conference

From Washington, D.C. to Main Street:
Integrating Federal, State, and Community Advocacy

MSU will frame a set of conversations designed specifically for Big 10 government relations professionals navigating an increasingly complex policy and political landscape. As institutions, we are Big 10 members being called upon to demonstrate impact across multiple arenas, while also continuing to work to ensure that advocacy efforts are coordinated, intentional, and aligned with institutional priorities.

MSU is designing this conference to be both practical and forward-looking, with opportunities for candid discussion, peer exchange to share successful strategies that can be adapted across our institutions. 

Additional details on the agenda, speakers, and logistics will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we encourage you to hold the dates and plan to join colleagues from across the Big Ten for what promises to be a highly engaging and rewarding exchange.

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  • Airports & Ground Transportation

    ARRIVAL AIRPORT OPTIONS

    Guests traveling to East Lansing have three primary airport options. Please review the guidance below to determine the best option based on your schedule, budget, and travel preferences.

    1. DETROIT METROPOLITAN WAYNE COUNTY AIRPORT (DTW) – Recommended for most travelers
    • Distance to hotel: ~80 miles
    • Estimated drive time: 1 hour 20–35 minutes; ongoing construction areas 


    Transportation Options from DTW to the Graduate Hotel, East Lansing:

    • Michigan Flyer (Preferred Shuttle Option) https://www.michiganflyer.com/schedule-route
    • Direct service from DTW to East Lansing (Marriott stop near campus)
    • Operates seven days a week
    • Stops at each of the following locations during each ride:
      • Detroit Metro Airport Ann Arbor Whitmore Lake East Lansing
    • Travel time: ~1 hour 55 minutes
    • Cost: ~$25–35 one-way
    • Runs approximately every 2 hours
    • Reliable and widely used for Michigan State University travel

     

    • Car Rental (On-Site at DTW)
    • Major providers available (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget)
    • Estimated cost: $90–150/day
    • Recommended for guests needing flexibility during their stay

    • Uber / Lyft (Rideshare)
    • Travel time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
    • Estimated cost: ~$100–180 (varies by demand)
    • Door-to-door convenience; advance scheduling available

    1. CAPITAL REGION INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAN)
    • Closest and most convenient option but limited flight options; will often involve connecting flights through Detroit Metro (DTW)
    • Distance to hotel: ~6–8 miles
    • Estimated drive time: 10–15 minutes

    Transportation Options from LAN to the Graduate Hotel, East Lansing

    • Uber / Taxi (Recommended)
      • Travel time: 10–15 minutes
      • Estimated cost: $20–35
    • Car Rental (On-Site at LAN)
      • Providers include Enterprise and Hertz; limited inventory
      • Estimated cost: $90–150/day
    • Public Transit (CATA Bus System)
      • Service connects airport to East Lansing/MSU campus
      • Travel time: ~25–40 minutes
      • Most economical option; limited convenience with luggage

    1. GERALD R. FORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (GRR)
    • Alternative regional option
    • Distance to hotel: ~65 miles
      Estimated drive time: ~1 hour


    Transportation Options

    • Car Rental (Recommended)
      • Major providers available on-site
      • Most efficient and flexible option
    • Uber / Lyft (Rideshare)
      • Travel time: ~1 hour
      • Estimated cost: ~$90–160
    • Bus Service (Limited Availability)
      • No direct route to East Lansing
      • Requires transfers via Grand Rapids and Lansing
      • Travel time: ~2.5–4+ hours (not recommended for most travelers)
  • Hotel Information

    Graduate by Hilton East Lansing
    133 Evergreen Avenue
    East Lansing, MI 48823

    Phone: 517-348-9000

    Room Reservation Link 

    ARRIVAL AT THE HOTEL

    The Graduate by Hilton East Lansing is located in the heart of downtown East Lansing, adjacent to the Michigan State University campus. It is within walking distance of campus venues, city restaurants and shops.

    Parking at the hotel:

    • Parking at the Graduate hotel is valet parking only; parking fees will be charged at the prevailing rate at the time of the event.
      • This is the primary parking option, featuring covered, secured service with in/out privileges
      • Self-parking is not available at the hotel
    • EV charging is not available
    • For local attendees: Alternative municipal options may be available at the nearby Albert Avenue garage and Grove Street garage; cost is roughly $25 per day
  • Agenda Topics
    Please return to this site as we add more details on the agenda between now and October. 

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