Welcome to the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. On behalf of the entire Ford School community, I am very pleased that you have chosen to join us this year. As you begin your studies, you are embarking on a new trajectory, which we hope you will find intellectually stimulating and fulfilling. You are also beginning a life-long affiliation with the University of Michigan and the growing Ford School network—an affiliation that will last far beyond your actual time here on campus. We hope that you will enjoy this membership, both personally and professionally.
I am honored to be beginning my fourth year as the dean here at the Ford School. My previous fifteen years had been spent in Washington D.C., as a professor at Georgetown University, and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. I taught international macroeconomics and trade as well as macro aspects of development. My recent research has focused on determinants of growth in developing economies. I very much enjoy my work with Ford School students, faculty, and staff and hope you share my excitement to be part of this vibrant and dynamic community!
We hope the opportunity to meet some of your new classmates, as well as faculty and staff members, during orientation will help you to feel comfortable right from the start. If you have any questions, especially as the semester begins, please do not hesitate to ask any member of the Student Services staff.
Again, welcome! I look forward to meeting you and to working with you as you build new skills, knowledge, and relationships in the years ahead.
Go blue!
Best wishes,
Susan M. Collins, Joan and Sanford Weill Dean of Public Policy