In May 2004, the University of Michigan publicly launched a fundraising campaign aimed at raising $2.5 billion. Championing The Michigan Difference—in academics, research, the quality of faculty, students, and graduates—the campaign builds on the strengths of the institution.

“The Michigan Difference focuses on maintaining and building the depth of excellence that is the foundation of the University of Michigan’s preeminence as a public research university,” said UM President Mary Sue Coleman. “Fourteen of UM’s colleges and programs rank among the top ten in the nation, a claim no other university can make. Our breadth of accomplishment and activity gives UM students and faculty an unparalleled array of opportunities. The title of the campaign, The Michigan Difference, captures the remarkable capacity of the University of Michigan to make a difference for our students, for our state, and for society.”

The University seal in ceramic tile at Lorch Hall, named after the College’s first dean, Emil Lorch. Photograph by UM Photo Services.

Like our college, the University of Michigan in recent years has turned increasingly to private philanthropy in the face of dwindling state appropriations. As the University's Provost Paul N. Courant noted at the public kickoff: "Philanthropy has always been a part of what makes Michigan great, and is even more important in the budget climate that we face today. Private giving helps us to provide that margin of excellence that makes The Michigan Difference.

The UM campaign, to continue until December 31, 2008, aims to raise $400 million for student scholarships and fellowships, $425 million for faculty support, $625 million for programs and research, $500 million for facilities, and $150 million for laboratories, infrastructure, and discretionary support. The pre-public, quiet phase of the campaign began in 2000. At the campaign kickoff, more than $1.28 billion had been raised, or 51 percent of the goal.

The University celebrated the public launch of the campaign last spring. The three-day event included more than 90 separate events, sponsored by the University's 19 colleges, schools, three campuses, and other units. Hundreds of UM graduates and volunteer supporters traveled from all around the country to join in the celebration and share their commitment to achieving the goals of the campaign. As reported in the last issue of Portico, Taubman College hosted an event as part of the May 24 kickoff.

For further information on the UM campaign, visit http://www.giving.umich.edu/.