Dear Friends,
Universal access to healthy water, sustainable and equitable housing solutions, and healthy adaptation to climate change are just a few of the pressing societal challenges that the University of Michigan is poised to address as part of a new initiative that will help Michigan communities and contribute to the successes of our state and nation.
The university’s new “Bold Challenges” initiative will leverage the amazing breadth of academic and research expertise at the university to address challenges at the intersection of equity, health, infrastructure and sustainability.
Grounded in our mission to serve the people of Michigan and the world, the two-year strategic endeavor recently launched by the Office of the Vice President for Research will unite faculty from across U-M to collaborate on this important work. We will be seeking federal and philanthropic dollars to support these efforts and increase our impact. I encourage you to read more about the Bold Challenges initiative and the six societal challenges it will take on.
The University of Michigan also is addressing the challenges associated with being a first-generation college student in our state. The Kessler Scholars Program supports more than 100 first-generation students from communities across Michigan, from Battle Creek to Benton Harbor, Port Huron to Presque Isle. It provides not just financial support, but also wraparound services on campus to promote a student’s academic success.
New statistics show that the program has closed the graduation gap that traditionally exists between these students and their continuing-generation peers. Now, a $40 million gift from the Judy and Fred Wilpon Family Foundation announced late last month has endowed the Kessler program at the University of Michigan in perpetuity. Read more about the Kessler Scholars program and the Wilpons’ extraordinary gift.
Lastly, with Veterans Day having passed a few days ago, I want to extend my appreciation to our veterans and military members. The Ann Arbor campus currently has 422 students – along with more than 700 faculty and staff – who have served or are serving in the military. I thank them for their service to our country and the vital role they play in our diverse community.
Go Blue!
