Family bequest cultivates new educational opportunities for MSU

Spirit Hill Farm is home to a long history of hard work and integrity. Now, through a generous bequest from Sheryl Bowen and the late Bob Bowen, the farm will help cultivate bright futures worthy of its past.

Before his passing, Bob, a 1963 MSU graduate, and his wife, Sheryl, established Spirit Hill Farm as a Legacy Forest within MSU's Bulldog Forest. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the farm has been in Bob's family since its settlement in the early 1800s. Sustaining and rewarding its stewards for generations, the farm was more than a home to Bob—;it was a heritage.

By giving the land, Bob kept his promise to his father to keep it as intact as possible rather than see it split up as it passed from generation to generation. MSU will use the property for a variety of purposes, including wildlife research and forestry, field day demonstrations, extension and outreach projects, and other educational and training activities.

The couple also established the Bowen Spirit Hill Farm Conservation Endowment to support and maintain the property. Its earnings will cover the costs of upkeep and the procurement of new improvements associated with the farm.

Before Bob's passing, Sheryl spoke about the beliefs that led to their generous gift.

"Some people thought we should be leaving the farm to our children, but we think that giving this property to MSU is its highest and best use. We don't own anything in this life. We are just caretakers for the next generation, and we all have something to give that will help make the world a better place," she said.

More than just acreage, Spirit Hill Farm is a heritage that now has an even greater legacy to fulfill. The land, with such a deep connection to the Bowen family's past, will create a powerful and enduring gift.