IPF helps MSU host another successful Odyssey of the Mind

Odyssey of the Mind is a massive international event that Michigan State University has the unique privilege of hosting every two years.

This event encourages teams of students of all ages to use creative problem solving to answer five open-ended challenges. The teams compete to earn style points that contribute to their standings, and hopefully lead to a victory. 

Over 900 teams flooded the campus to participate, which required advance preparation and maintenance work from various IPF departments. The event brought about 16,000 people to East Lansing, with 8,000 staying on campus.

“The entire university does a phenomenal job in making each participant and their families feel welcome and at home during their stay here,” said Angie Zell, IPF Events service manager. “IPF plays a large role in preparing, maintaining and restoring our beautiful facilities and grounds, which enhances the entire experience for all.”

From the opening and closing ceremonies at the Breslin Student Events Center to the after parties at Cherry Lane Field, and all of the individual competitions in between, IPF was there for it all.

“There are times when unforeseen challenges appear that trigger IPF teams to join forces to problem solve, plan, execute and succeed,” said Jamie Talbert, IPF Events operations coordinator. “IPF excels and thrives when these situations arise, which makes working through these challenges enjoyable.”

Staff from Custodial Services, MSU Surplus and Recycling, Landscape Services, Building Services, Central Control, Transportation Services, Materials and Logistics and the Key Shop all contributed to the success of the event.

“Every person we corresponded with were singing IPF’s praises,” Zell said. “We can never thank our IPF teams enough for always making us look good and representing MSU with the utmost respect and professionalism.”