Chapter 14 highlights
Community Engagement & Public Service
Promoting Democratic Participation and Lifelong Learning
The University of Michigan stands as a model of how public institutions can deeply and positively influence the communities they serve. With a combination of teaching, research, and public service, U-M extends its impact well beyond campus boundaries, making meaningful contributions to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, and the state at large. From supporting local economies through employment and procurement to fostering vibrant civic life through cultural and educational events, U-M’s commitment to community engagement is woven into the fabric of its mission.
economic impact
U-M has a large impact on the Michigan economy, with the university directly purchasing nearly $1.4 billion in goods and services from Michigan companies in fiscal year 2024.
public service expenditures
Employee giving
United Way Campaigns
University employees consistently donate more than $1 million each year to support health, education and financial stability programs and services facilitated by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Learn more about U-M givingPublic service expenditures
Compared to public peers, U-M spends the second most on public service, according to the most recently available IPEDS data.
,Public Service,Public Service Wisconsin-Madison,387, MICHIGAN,,295.9 UCLA,245.9, UC-San Francisco,229.6, Illinois,204.3, UNC-Chapel Hill,200.6, Texas-Austin,173.2, Ohio State,172.2, Washington,166.2, UC-Berkeley,114.5, Georgia Tech,81.3, Virginia,51.5,