Noelle Polaski (MPP, MA '16) is among four U-M graduate students whose team, Le Rouge, won the 2014 Social Impact Challenge based on their recommendations for Detroit Future City. The Social Impact Challenge asks multidisciplinary teams of graduate students to collaborate on addressing real issues for an organization that delivers social impact. Teams receive a Challenge statement, investigate the context and social issues, and develop strategic recommendations for action.
This year's objective was to develop strategies to improve transportation for Detroit's neighborhoods for Detroit Future City (DFC). The DFC Strategic Framework is a comprehensive plan to achieve fiscal sustainability and improve quality of life for all Detroiters. A panel of Detroit leaders and content experts from the University judged the case competition. Along with Polaski, the winning team included Matthew Nathan (MSW '14), Douglas Smith (MUP '15), and Sarah-Jane Cubran (MBA '14). The winning team was awarded $2,500 for their recommendations.
The Social Impact Challenge is organized by the Nonprofit and Public Management Center, which is a partnership between the Ford School, the Ross School of Business, and the School of Social Work that aims to help students develop professional skills needed in the nonprofit world.
Ford School MPP student among winners of 2014 Social Impact Challenge
February 26, 2014