The Vietnam Project was an international project in nation building undertaken by M.S.U. Wesley R. Fishel, a professor of political science at M.S.U., was a friend of Ngo Dinh Diem, the first Prime Minister of South Vietnam. Fishel was hired be an adviser to Diem. Through this relationship M.S.U. was asked to provide technical assistance to Diem's country. M.S.U. President Hannah sent four advisers to Vietnam.

As a result, the Michigan State University Group and the University became highly involved in the Diem government. M.S.U. hosted members of Diem's government on campus as well as maintained a large presence in Vietnam.

Source: Thomas, David A., John Hannah and the Creation of a World University, 1926-1969 (Michigan State University Press, East Lansing 2008), page 227.

View the finding aid for the Vietnam Project records.