Let's Drive Change Together this Give Day!

Help ITS-Davis continue to be a leader in sustainable transportation research

Dear ITS-Davis Family and Friends,

Give Day 2025 is here—and I’m reaching out personally to ask for your support. We have a great opportunity to be a positive influence in California, the US, and the world!

ITS-Davis continues to establish itself as the leading university center in the world for sustainable transportation—conducting relevant and impactful research, training the next generation of leaders and experts, and getting our research into the hands of industry, government, and NGOs. We convene leaders and experts on contentious policy issues and provide the science to arrive at good outcomes. And we educate the leaders and experts of tomorrow. 

But we can do much more–with your help!

I’ve been at UC Davis since 1982. What sets this university apart, and why I’ve stayed here for over four decades, is the commitment to engagement—making sure that our research makes a difference. With all the conflicts and tensions in the US and the world, we are now more important than ever. Your gift this Give Day helps us:



• Advance groundbreaking research in electric and automated vehicles, public transportation, infrastructure innovation, and much more.
• Expand our engagement with decisionmakers in California, the US, and the world.
• Educate the next generation of leaders and experts.

Every contribution—no matter the size—helps advance a sustainable transportation future.

I ask that you consider making a gift to ITS-Davis on UC Davis Give Day, April 11-12, or by giving early now. This year, we have two featured philanthropic opportunities: The JY Zero Emissions Challenge, which I am co-sponsoring, will support convening, students, and researchers, and the Craig Matthew Childers Fund EV Technology & Policy Challenge will support student scholarships, fellowships and projects at ITS-Davis. 

I’ve always said that we don’t do research to leave it on the bookshelf; we do research that’s going to influence policy and decision-making to make the world a better place. 

Thank you for being part of our community and for believing in the power of transportation to transform lives. Your support fuels our mission—and together, we can build a future that moves everyone forward.

Thank you!

Dan Sperling, NAE

Founding Director, Institute of Transportation Studies

Distinguished Blue Planet Prize Professor of Engineering and Environmental Science & Policy

University of California, Davis