Join us in listening to Dr. Luke Shaefer, co-author of $2 A DAY: LIVING ON ALMOST NOTHING IN AMERICA, as he presents major thoughts and ideas from his book and discussion on poverty in rural America. Shaefer’s work has been highly acclaimed; he’s been interviewed on NPR, many newspapers, and is a noted researcher and professor at the University of Michigan.

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The University of Michigan’s 2020 United Way employee giving campaign has surpassed its stated goal and raised more than $1.2 million thanks to the generosity of faculty, staff and retirees.

The funds donated will benefit programs and services through the United Way of Washtenaw County Community Impact Fund — directed toward meeting the most pressing needs in the community — or organizations designated by the donor.

Campaign co-chairs Tony Denton, senior vice president and chief operating officer for the U-M Health System, and Cynthia Wilbanks, vice president emeritus for government relations, expressed appreciation for the support from the university community.

T. Anthony DentonSenior Vice-President and COOUniversity of Michigan Health SystemMichigan Medicine

“Thanks to everyone who supported our United Way campaign this year,” Denton said. “Raising 20 percent above our stated goal in a challenging year is truly inspiring and a proud moment for the university.”

In the campaign kick-off message, the co-chairs set a goal of $1 million and reminded the university community how critically important the campaign is to the underserved in the community, and this year in particular due to the COVID-19 pandemic and effects on the health of the population.

Cynthia H. Wilbanks: Vice President emeritus for the Office of Government Relation

“The university has again supported this community with their caring and generosity,” Wilbanks said. “This year the results are more important than ever and will support this area’s ongoing needs as well as those created by the recent pandemic.”

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Chris Kolb, who currently serves as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s state budget director, has been appointed vice president for government relations at the University of Michigan.

Kolb has more than 20 years of public service experience in the government and nonprofit sectors, including three terms in the Michigan House of Representatives.

His five-year appointment — effective Jan. 19 — is authorized by President Mark Schlissel and follows the recommendation from a national search conducted by a search advisory committee. The appointment will be reported to the Board of Regents at its February meeting.

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