For 25 years, Sue Johnson has been a driving force behind successful fundraising efforts at the University of Michigan, first supporting Rackham Graduate School, then the University’s Museum of Art, and the Law School. Since 2016, the Ford School has had the good fortune to benefit from her talents. This October, the Ford School and the University of Michigan launched the ambitious “Look to Michigan” fundraising campaign.
What does the Ford School hope to accomplish with its “Look to Michigan” Campaign?
Our top priority is to support our students. Fellowships and scholarships are the most direct way to influence student success. The reality is, the cost of attending the University of Michigan can be a significant barrier for many. Funding enables us to attract talented students from diverse backgrounds and broaden access to public policy education. Donor contributions help unlock opportunities for students.
Beyond student support, the campaign aims to bolster our talented faculty and their pioneering research, as well as to enhance programs that prepare students to tackle complex policy issues. A prime example is our Leadership Initiative, which has grown thanks to seed funding from two foundations as well as individual gifts of all sizes. Now, the Leadership Initiative is working on plans to expand curricular and co-curricular activities that will help students be intentional about their growth and development as policy leaders.
The Ford School really couldn’t do what we do without donor support.
Can you elaborate on how gifts affect our students?
As an organization dedicated to the public good, we absolutely must close the funding gap that limits access to top-tier policy education. Generous support for our Rackham Merit Award, a master’s fellowship partnership with Rackahm, has opened the door to students underrepresented in policy circles, including first-generation students. Gifts like these have a powerful influence on future policy leaders who come from many educational, cultural, geographic, and familial backgrounds.
Another example is the Bohnett Fellowship, which has provided tremendous support for the past 14 years. This fellowship includes a funded internship with the City of Detroit’s Mayor’s Office. I’ve heard fellows and their families talk about the profound impact this fellowship has had on their lives: it’s incredibly powerful!
It also has ripple effects. More than half of our 39 Bohnett Fellows are still contributing to and positively influencing the city of Detroit.
What about smaller gifts? Do they have an impact?
Absolutely! We are big believers in the power of smaller contributions. During the Ford School’s last capital campaign, gifts under $500 collectively amounted to more than $340,000. It shows that annual giving, regardless of the amount, adds up to make a significant difference.
What’s the Ford School’s “secret sauce” for fundraising?
We often say this but it’s true: the Ford School is a special place. The leadership here is extraordinary, starting with the foundational work of Ned Gramlich; followed by Becky Blank, who put the school on the map; Susan Collins, who significantly raised our profile; and Michael Barr, who expanded our reach with new programs and research centers. Now, Celeste Watkins-Hayes is taking us even further in innovative and creative ways.
The Ford School faculty are exceptional scholars and committed mentors. The community as a whole is collaborative, creative, and caring. And our students are motivated and passionate about serving the public good. This attracts generous and thoughtful donors who are deeply committed to our mission. Together, we are meeting the moment to educate and inspire the next generation of public policy leaders.
I am so proud to be a part of the Ford School’s success!
Learn more about the Ford School campaign.
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