Gifts in Action

How to Make a Gift | Funding Priorities | Gifts in Action

The students and donors profiled below have been profoundly and positively affected by philanthropy at the Ford School. Check out their stories:

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Maria Smith

“As an intern at the Eurasia Foundation for Central Asia, I had the opportunity to see how that society is developing and to play an active part in that development. Working on projects to develop corporate social responsibility, create opportunities for youth activism, and increase community involvement provided me with invaluable practical experience in addressing the needs of a developing society. I am proud to have represented the University of Michigan at the Eurasia Foundation, and hope to continue building strong societies and strong international cooperation in the future. I am so grateful to Bob and Anne Marie Willis for the gift that has made my internship possible.”

—Maria Smith (MPP Class of 2011),
2010 James Wherry Willis Memorial Intern

Nick Danoff

“The generous funding I received from the Annual Fund was a crucial factor in my decision to attend the Ford School. After earning my degrees in both public policy and business, I hope to establish a political consulting firm that will help businesses better understand the political environment and enact innovative corporate social responsibility programs. The support I have received from my Annual Fund Fellowship will free me from undue financial burden so that I can focus on achieving these aspirations”

—Nick Danoff (MPP/MBA Class of 2013),
2010 Annual Fund Fellow

Johanna & Mitch Vernick

Johanna and Mitch Vernick

“My wife, Johanna, and I are so pleased to provide financial support for Ford School graduate student internships. The experiences students are able to gain working between their first and second years are invaluable to their education and provide them with important networking opportunities to further their careers.”

—Mitch Vernick (MPP Class of '78)