From U-M Leaders

From President Santa J. Ono

Dear Friends,

As ambitious and unified leaders, we know that the world is calling on us to answer the defining questions of our time. In order to meet the moment, we must forge a new way forward with an innovative vision that not only transforms us into the defining public institution, but inspires all that is possible for the public good.

This past April, thanks to the personal engagement of so many of you, we launched our Vision 2034—and it’s advancing our mission. The Look to Michigan campaign will bring this vision to life.

Working together to navigate the world’s most pressing challenges, we embarked on the Look to Michigan campaign to prioritize four collaborative impact areas: life-changing education; health and well-being; sustainability and climate action; and democracy, civic & global engagement. We are also pursuing advances in core commitments and key university priorities, such as recognizing the arts as a creative catalyst for insight, growth, and learning; fostering inclusivity on our campuses so each member of our diverse community has equitable opportunities to thrive; supporting the student experience and providing the best in wraparound services; and increasing our impact through innovation, partnership, and economic development

Finding solutions to the biggest challenges we face is going to take unwavering determination and an innovative approach. But this is a transformative moment for Michigan, as we courageously discover, together, what’s next for a better tomorrow. Whether it’s providing a quality education for learners of every background, improving health care access and patient outcomes for all, strengthening democratic awareness and civic engagement in our communities and around the world, or tackling climate change with equitable solutions, Michigan’s unmatched expertise, excellence at scale, and collaboration across fields is what positions us to lead the charge.

Let the Look to Michigan campaign serve as a catalyst for what’s next for Michigan, as we advance the priorities of all three U-M campuses, Michigan Medicine, Athletics, and all university schools, colleges, and units. Let’s build on our storied tradition of service and leadership, academic excellence, world-class research, and exceptional impact.

We’re so excited to partner with friends and supporters like you. We have ambitious goals—but through your engagement, I’m confident they’re in reach.

Santa J. Ono
President

From Tom Baird, Vice President for Development

Dear Friends,

One thing I know about the worldwide University of Michigan community: our pride and passion for this place shines like no other.

Many of us came of age here, exploring ideas and making connections that bear fruit for years to come. Some come to challenge the status quo, make groundbreaking discoveries, and find solutions to vexing problems. Many seek care and hope from our world-renowned health care experts, while others visit for our extraordinary student-artists, performers, and athletes. That’s just a sampling of the wonders achieved on our campuses and beyond.

And here’s another thing I know: Michigan’s unique position among our public and private peers is driven by philanthropic support from people like you. It has sustained our great university for more than two centuries, and it will carry us into the future.

Today, our leaders have charted a bold new vision for U-M to be the defining public university of our time. It leverages our deep expertise across fields and excellence at scale, and it exemplifies our innovative strength and service to the common good.

To fulfill that bold vision, we need to turn it into bold action. That’s where the Look to Michigan campaign comes in: philanthropic support to make that vision reality.

We already know our university is a special place. Now, let’s spread the word: Look to Michigan.

Go Blue!