1st MSU Research Foundation Professor in college history named

More than 75 years in and the College of Nursing is still experiencing “firsts.” On Wednesday, the university announced the college’s first MSU Research Foundation professor, bestowing the honor on Professor Jiying Ling.

The designation makes Ling one of just approximately 60 such professors at the university and is reserved for those “who combine externally recognized, exemplary scholarly accomplishment with clear professional relevance to specific areas of MSU scholarly need, disciplinary development, or research or creative emphasis.”

“I am truly humbled to be named an MSU Research Foundation Professor,” Ling said. “It takes a village—thank you to my incredible collaborators, community partners, and college for your unwavering support and belief in me. With support from the MSU Research Foundation, I look forward to expanding our impact nationally and globally! Go Green!”

Ling joined the college as a postdoctoral fellow in 2014 before becoming an assistant professor a year later. She is currently assistant director of the PhD program and responsible for the largest grant to a single researcher in college history, a $5.8 million NIH award in 2023 to increase behavioral well-being in preschool age children.

Additionally, Ling is a strong advocate for instilling healthy eating habits in youth. Her “Eat My ABCs” program partnered with community agencies in northern Michigan for two years — wrapping up in June 2024 — and targeted 26 rural daycare classes and over 400 children to implement a 14-week program. Activities included learning about fruits and vegetables, including where they grow and the health benefits; as well as a mindful eating food taste activity where children could see, feel, hear, smell, and taste the food. Participating teachers sat in a 4-hour in-person training session with MSU researchers and staff and were provided resources throughout the program.

One of the chief outcomes from that project was that the level of carotenoids — a pigment in the skin that can be measured to determine one’s fruit or vegetable intake — went up in 43% of participating children.

This new title, which takes effect June 1, opens up additional research resources to Ling, which will allow her to further her work on these important topics.

“She has truly elevated the college and university during her time with us and is an example of a researcher making meaningful impact in our communities,” said Dean Leigh Small. “We are proud to call her one of our own and I look forward to seeing her future accomplishments.”

Associate Dean for Research Susan Buchholz called Ling “a shining light.”

“I am so thankful that the university has also recognized this and awarded Dr. Ling with this distinction,” she said. “Her dedication to improving the lives of our youngest citizens is so important, as this positive impact will last for them for years to come. She is truly among those who are making the world a better place for us.”

Story published May 16, 2025.