Students are looking forward to Thanksgiving, the big break in their studies before the final stretch of classes, study, papers, and exams that mark the end of the fall term. For most, it's time to reconnect with families and friends; for those who do not leave Ann Arbor during the holiday, there is at least the promise to enjoy some time to relax and refresh.
The holiday gives us pause to give thanks for the goodness in our lives. I am thankful for the opportunity to work with so many wonderful students, faculty, and staff whose passions, efforts, and accomplishments define the greatness of this university.
With unabashed pride, I am particularly glad for all that my Student Life colleagues do every day to help students achieve academic and personal successes. It's gratifying to serve the transformation of the "whole" student into eager, hopeful, capable citizens of the world.
And I am thankful for all that this great university, its faculty, and students give to the world through teaching and research, discovery, knowledge, understanding, and service that benefit lives far beyond the campus.
On this occasion to give thanks, there is a unique opportunity for the Michigan Community to thankfully give.
Giving Blueday on December 2, is the University of Michigan’s first university-wide day of giving. Occurring on Giving Tuesday – a global day of giving following Thanksgiving weekend – Giving Blueday is a day to make a difference in thousands of lives and have an impact on the future of our world.
From midnight through 11:59 p.m. EST on December 2, the university will invite supporters worldwide to be victors for Michigan by making donations. With social media challenges, special events, and real-time updates throughout the day, alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents, patients and their families, fans, patrons, and other devotees will be encouraged to show their Michigan pride with a gift to the university. Watch the Giving Blueday website for the excitement to come.
Giving Blueday will be a day for everyone who is thankful for Michigan to join together to support students, transform lives, shape the world, and make great things happen.
As ever, please contact this office – [email protected], or (734) 764-5132 – or any of my Student Life colleagues whenever we can be of service to you.
E. Royster Harper
Vice President for Student Life
To help Student Life continue making a difference in students' lives, please consider making a gift.