MSU Federal Credit Union feels so strongly about enhancing the arts that the cooperative will provide a $1 million endowment to Michigan State University to set up a jazz artist in residence program.

In addition to bringing well-known jazz artists such as Branford Marsalis to work with students, guest artists and other jazz groups will perform around the state through the new program.

MSUFCU President/CEO Patrick McPharlin said the credit union wanted to build on the success on MSU's jazz studies program and sees the new residency program as way to enhance the arts as well as create a sense of economic development.

The $2.3 billion MSUFCU in East Lansing, Mich., said it already funds the university's Wharton Center's arts and creativity department and used the division to build a model for the new jazz artist in residence program.

Michigan State's University's jazz studies program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees with students getting the opportunity to play in three orchestras, five octets and eight jazz combos, according to the school.  

“This generous gift will further strengthen one of America's great jazz programs and provide unforgettable music and educational experiences not only for our students, but for people across Michigan,” said MSU College of Music Dean James Forger, in a statement.

MSUFCU announced the $1 million gift Sunday at a concert in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.