The competition and rivalry between the University and Michigan State University may end on the playing field - at least in the eyes of MSU's administration.
At the request of MSU President Peter McPherson, University interim President Homer Neal will speak at MSU's fall commencement ceremony and also will receive an honorary degree.
"Clearly I'm honored to be asked," Neal said. "I'm looking forward to giving the commencement speech at the graduation ceremony."
While Neal said he felt honored, MSU spokesperson Terry Denow said the university is honored that Neal accepted the invitation.
"While we invited him, he honors us too," Denbow said. "We feel very fortunate to have him."
John Truscott, a spokesperson for Gov. John Engler, said he is pleased with the selection.
"MSU's been very fortunate in the past couple of years to get some renowned speakers and this just continues in that tradition," Truscott said. "The governor is very pleased."
Denbow said having Neal speak at the ceremony says something about the relationship between the two universities.
"It represents the collaboration and partnership between two great universities," Denbow said. "What we have in common is so much more important than what we don't."
Truscott said the two institutions complement each other. "We can learn from each other," he said.
At the University, reactions to MSU's selection were similar. Walter Harrison, vice president for university relations, said the choice says positive things about the two institutions' relationship.
"It's clearly a gesture from Michigan State that they value the presidency of the University of Michigan," Harrison said. "I'm sure it's also because Homer is not only the interim president, but a world-renowned scholar.
"It's a terrific honor for (Neal) and a wonderful gesture toward the University of Michigan," he said.
Neal said he did not know what he will speak about.
"I'll be giving some thought on that in the coming days, " Neal said.
Denbow said that whatever Neal decides to include in his speech will be appropriate for the audience - which will be made up of graduate students receiving advanced degrees.
Truscott said Neal will have a lot to bring to the ceremony.
"I think it speaks volumes for his career," Truscott said. "His experience and the wisdom that he'll have will mean a lot to the students at MSU."
The MSU commencement speakers were chosen by advisory groups, but McPherson makes the final decision.
"(McPherson) made it with enthusiasm," Denbow said.
Neal is scheduled to address MSU students on Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Jack Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing.
-Daily Staff Reporter Jodi S. Cohen contributed to this report.