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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 7h

Where can we find solutions to global democratic backsliding? Our expert faculty explored this question at a Democracy Week event. “Democracy isn’t just given by government; it’s upheld by individuals and civic institutions,” said Professor @donmoyn.bsky.social. Read: myumi.ch/X8Q5r

The "democracy in global-historical perspective" event panel.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 11/10/2026

Interested in joining our Alumni Board? The self-nomination period is open! Submit your nomination by October 14 at 11:59 pm (ET): myumi.ch/NXbey

Graphic with text that reads: "Join our alumni board. Self-nominations due Oct. 14."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

October 12-13, the Weiser Diplomacy Center is hosting "Shifting Tides," a U.S.-Africa Conference. The conference features 5 policy discussions exploring topics such as climate, peace and security, and Africa’s economic future. Event details: myumi.ch/9JJW1

People in an auditorium listening to a speaker.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 10/10/2026

Did you miss the Michigan Secretary of State debate on 10/8? Check out this YouTube playlist of each question and each answer: myumi.ch/gknA6

2026 Secretary of State candidates debating

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Alumni, don’t miss all of the events we have planned when you return to Ann Arbor next week! 〽️ Event info & schedule: myumi.ch/Axwwx

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

At “Decolonizing imagination: Narratives, memory, and political possibility in the U.S. Territories,” @maraceci.bsky.social led panelists in examining democracy from places whose residents are U.S. citizens but lack full representation in the federal government. Read more: myumi.ch/Z8N7J

The crowd at the "decolonizing imagination" event.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Join us at the Weiser Diplomacy Center’s U.S.-Africa Conference keynote address featuring Chidi Blyden, Executive Director of the Harvard Center for African Studies. Register to attend and find out more about the conference: myumi.ch/G7DXp

Promotional poster for an event titled "Shifting Tides: The U.S.-Africa Relationship Amid Global Competition" taking place from October 12-13, 2026. Chidi Blyden, Executive Director of the Harvard Center for African Studies at Harvard University, will deliver the keynote address. The design features a colorful map of Africa with scenic imagery.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

“Any kind of worker who's struggling to get their foot in the door, keep their foot in the door, get a promotion to the next thing-those are the people who are really struggling right now,” economist @betseystevenson.bsky.social explores the latest labor reports. Read: myumi.ch/qwEAG

Quote from Betsey Stevenson that reads: “What I see is a continuation of a low-fire, low-hire labor market. And that is a labor market where if you have a job, you’re doing OK. You can hang on to it, but it’s hard to get a new job. And that hurts not only the people who need to enter the labor market or have lost their job, but it actually also hurts the people who are employed because most wage gains—big wage gains—come from changing jobs.”

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Who governs the machine? Find out in the latest edition of our magazine, State & Hill! This edition explores how policy can (and should) keep people and the public interest at the center. Read the online version: myumi.ch/6P6Pm

The fall 2026 cover of State & Hill which features a chatbot-like design with the text: "Who governs the machine?"

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Meet the women leading Michigan communities on 10/14 from 4:00-5:30 pm! Engage with municipal issues and learn about the management profession at this interactive panel hosted by CLOSUP. Register to attend and find more event details: myumi.ch/7JnNm

4 Women sitting at a table set up for a panel.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Tonight! Wallace House Center for Journalists presents "The DOJ and threats to the press," a public conversation in Weill Hall from 4:30-6:00 pm. Event & livestream details: myumi.ch/gknM3

Promotional poster for the "DOJ and threats to the press" event.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Congratulations to the 2026 Kohn Scholars Tyler Mathieu (MPP ‘28) and Courtney Moore (MPP ‘28)! Kohn Scholars are chosen for their outstanding qualifications and commitment to public service and advancing social policy. Learn more: myumi.ch/rwpNM

Tyler Mathieu and Courtney Moore standing and smiling.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Shoshana Shapiro’s (PhD ‘23) new research shows that counties with larger Black and Hispanic populations see significantly less spending for critical nonprofit human services than predominantly white counties. Read her findings: myumi.ch/VDb7j

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

It’s National Voter Education Week! 🗳️ Are you prepared to vote next month? Here’s some information to help you get ready. National Voter Education Week website: myumi.ch/e7g8j

Graphic with The Cube sculpture with a sticker that reads "Victors vote!" the text reads: "National Voter Education Week. October 5-9, 2026. Swipe to see a voting checklist."

Graphic with a checkbox and text that reads: "Register to vote. Depending on where you live, you may have different options! There are three different ways to register to vote – in person, by mail, or online. Each way to register has different rules and requirements, and deadlines may vary by type."

Graphic with a checkbox and text that reads: "Get to know your ballot. Review it beforehand to understand the candidates running for federal, state, and local offices, as well as any ballot measures or amendments. By taking the time to research and understand your ballot, you can confidently cast your vote in alignment with your values and beliefs."

Graphic with a checkbox and text that reads: "Make a plan to vote. Voting doesn’t just happen on Election Day! Nearly every state offers early voting options, whether in-person or by mail, that allow you to vote on your schedule."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Mark your calendars! 📅October 12-13, the Wesier Diplomacy Center is hosting “Shifting tides: the U.S.-Africa relationship amid global competition” This 2-day program features 5 policy discussions and expert roundtables. Learn more: myumi.ch/d8rVj

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Congratulations to Isabella Cimmino (BA ‘27), 3rd-place winner of our Policy Pitch Competition! In a TedTalk style presentation, Cimmino highlighted her internship with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office SVU. Learn more about her summer internship: myumi.ch/9J33V

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Congratulations to Lakshay Sood (BA ‘27), 2nd-place winner of our Policy Pitch Competition! In a TEDTalk style presentation, Sood highlighted his summer internship with Sandia National Laboratories. Read about his experience this summer: myumi.ch/NXbb9

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Congratulations to Alimatou Sarr (MPP/MIRS ‘28), 1st-place winner of our Policy Pitch Competition! In a TEDTalk style presentation, Sarr highlighted her internship with the American Immigration Council. Learn more about her experience this summer: myumi.ch/gkg64

Alimatou Sarr standing and speaking at a podium.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Congratulations to Amr Brown (BA ‘27), the Audience Student Prize winner of our Policy Pitch Competition! In a TedTalk style presentation, Brown highlighted his internship at the Center for Emerging Global Leaders. Learn more about his summer: myumi.ch/WDAAW

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

At two of our events during @umich.edu's Democracy Week, current & former Democratic & Republican elected leaders showcased how conversations across differences are essential to democratic life. Read more about the events: myumi.ch/MpEzb

Quote from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham that reads: ""If you will take a minute to talk to the people that you disagree with and hear them out, I feel better about the work that we do every minute of every day."

Quote from Former Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry Jr. which reads: "You learn to compromise. You learn how to work with someone you don't agree with, and that goes a long way toward making the system viable."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Alumni! Join us for a weekend of Fordies, fun, and football on October 16-17! 💙 📣 Celebrate Homecoming at our upcoming events! See the schedule here: myumi.ch/Axwwx

People talking in the Great Hall at Homecoming 2025.

A group of alumni standing and smiling at the Homecoming 2025 photobooth.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Online Master of Public Affairs students are in Ann Arbor! 🍂💛 This weekend, one of two in-person residencies offers experiences designed to strengthen practical skills, deepen learning, & connect with our community. Interested in the program? myumi.ch/E8jZM

A group of Online MPA students walking and smiling on a campus tour.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

@stpp-um.bsky.social is enhancing its Michigan Science, Technology, and Public Policy fellowship program by adding a 2nd postgraduate position! This new fellowship is made possible by a generous grant from the Rita Allen Foundation. Learn more: myumi.ch/zN3DM

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

Next week: Hear directly from Michigan’s Secretary of State candidates. Register your interest for a chance to attend in person, or learn how to watch the livestream: myumi.ch/4x6jn

Promotional poster for the Michigan Secretary of State debate hosted by the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. It features photos of Anthony Forlini, the Republican candidate, and Garlin Gilchrist II, the Democratic candidate. The event is on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 6:30–7:30 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Economist @justinwolfers.bsky.social analyzes this week’s new jobs data. Was the strong report a blip? “The most important thing is not to overreact to any one number,” Wolfers told @marketplace.org. Read more: myumi.ch/Axbmj

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

A look back at Democracy Week! Thank you to everyone who joined us to dig into the history of democracy, learn how elections work, and celebrate 250 years of our nation. Subscribe to The Center for Democracy and Civic Empowerment’s newsletter: myumi.ch/QMnzy

Speakers sitting in conversation at the Democracy in Context event.

People sitting in conversation sharing the spirit of America.

Former governors sitting at the Election Security event.

Governors Cox and Lujan Grisham sitting on a stage in conversation.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Students in our Online Master of Public Affairs program recently came together at the Kohn Social Policy Conference to learn, exchange ideas, & connect with fellow students, faculty, & policy leaders. Looking to join the next cohort? Apply by Nov. 1: myumi.ch/RQ9qz

Online MPA students taking a selfie at the Kohn Social Policy Conference.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

We are pleased to announce that we are hosting a debate between the Democratic and Republican candidates for Michigan Secretary of State on October 8. Seating is limited. Learn more and register your interest for a chance to attend: myumi.ch/4x6jn

Graphic featuring Michigan Secretary of State candidates Anthony Forlini and Garlin Gilchrist III. Text reads: "Michigan Secretary of State debate. Thursday, October 8, 2026. 6:30-7:30 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of beloved sociologist and demographer Reynolds (Ren) Farley. Farley was an expert on Detroit's history. His legacy lives on in those he mentored & taught. He will be deeply missed. More info: //myumi.ch/G7974

Ren Farley sitting in the Detroit Tigers’ stadium. Photo by Robin Buckson.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Research to watch🔍: Does MI’s free school meals program affect student performance and academic outcomes? That’s what @kmichelmore.bsky.social, @natashap.bsky.social, and the @edpolicyford.bsky.social research team will study this year. Read more about the evaluation: myumi.ch/qwRk8

Headshots of Katherine Michelmore and Nathasha Pilkauskas.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

Poverty Solutions’ Kristin Seefeldt and Amanda Nothaft share insights from census data showing a decline in poverty. They caution that the data doesn’t reflect benefit cuts that began taking effect in 2026. Read their observations: myumi.ch/qwRy1

Graphic with text that reads: "It's notable that the median income for the top earners is increasing, while income for the lowest earners is stagnant. - Kristin Seefeldt, Poverty Solutions Director."

Graphic with text that reads: "The poverty numbers look pretty good–especially child poverty—but these numbers do not reflect cuts in benefits that started to take effect at the start of 2026. - Amanda Nothaft, Poverty Solutions Director of Data and Analysis."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

New research co-authored by economist @kmichelmore.bsky.social found that @umich.edu HAIL Scholarship program increased on-time bachelor's degree attainment and projected earnings for low-income students. Read more: myumi.ch/RQ9Zw @e@edpolicyford.bsky.social

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

@stpp-um.bsky.social director @shobitap.org has a new Expert Voices column in @science.org! Parthasarathy argues that the Trump administration’s science policy strategy will harm science and further erode its public accountability. Read the column: myumi.ch/J4E7E

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

That’s a wrap! Thank you to the policymakers, practitioners, scholars, and students who joined us for thought-provoking conversations at the Kohn Social Policy Conference. #KohnCollaborative

The health panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The education panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The childhood poverty panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The housing panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

“This is our chance to develop an allergy to silos. Look around and build relationships with people who don’t look like you, build bridges, and do something.” - Nicole Sherard-Freeman at the Kohn Social Policy Conference, in conversation with Luke Shaefer. #KohnCollaborative

Nicole Sherard-Freeman sitting and conversating with Luke Shaefer.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

The Kohn Social Policy Conference is underway! We can’t wait to spend the rest of the day with scholars, policymakers, practitioners, community leaders, and students as we explore what a city can do to promote human thriving. 🏙️ #KohnCollaborative

A conference room with attendees seated at round tables facing a stage. On stage, a panel of speakers sits, talking.

A group of people stands in line and interacts at an event registration desk.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Online Master of Public Affairs applications are open until November 1! This flexible, accessible, and hands-on degree is designed for busy, working professionals who want to transform their leadership and drive change. Apply here: myumi.ch/RQ9qz

Woman sitting at a table, working on a computer. The computer features Ford School stickers that read: “Dedicated to the public good. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Tomorrow, September 17, join us for We Hold These Truths… with Towsley Policymaker in Residence Holly Bass! Learn more: myumi.ch/WDprn

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Tomorrow: Michigan elections: Local control, national scrutiny, and public trust. A Democracy Week session on how elections work and how to navigate election-season noise. Register to attend: myumi.ch/9J4nW

Poster for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event. It features a voting station with the word "Vote" and a digital padlock image. The event is titled "Michigan elections: Local control, national scrutiny, and public trust," scheduled for Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 11:45 am to 12:50 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Looking to learn more about the impact of #DataCenters? Don’t miss the co-author of @stpp-um.bsky.social's “What Happens When Data Centers Come to Town”, @benzevgreen.bsky.social, as he offers his expertise. Watch the livestream today at 6 pm: myumi.ch/Pb9nQ

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Tomorrow: Democracy in Global-Historical Perspective 🌐 A Democracy Week session on democratic governance across history and around the world. Register to attend: myumi.ch/RQV5y

Poster for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event titled "Democracy in global-historical perspective." Features images of architectural columns, a ballot box, and an open book. Event date: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:50 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Join us tomorrow for Decolonizing Imagination: Narratives, Memory & Political Possibility in the U.S. Territories. 🌎 Speakers from U.S. territories will discuss the tools they draw on to shift political narratives in their communities. Register: myumi.ch/DW6Z7

A promotional image for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event titled "Decolonizing Imagination: Narratives, Memory, and Political Possibility in the U.S. Territories." The background features a collage with tropical flowers, a person paddling a boat, and a historic fortress. Event details are included: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 pm.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

Democracy Week starts tomorrow! We’re kicking off with How to Disagree Better, featuring Governors Spencer Cox and Lujan Grisham. Register to attend: myumi.ch/8J2QM

Promotional poster for "Democracy Week" at the University of Michigan. It features "Governors Forum: How to Disagree Better?" with headshots of two governors: Spencer Cox from Utah and Michelle Lujan Grisham from New Mexico.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

Don’t miss How to Disagree Better: A forum with Governors Spencer Cox and Lujan Grisham! On Monday, September 14, the governors will discuss reviving America's democracy through healthy conflict and constructive dialogue. Register to attend: myumi.ch/8J2QM

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Today marks the 25th anniversary of a solemn day in our history. The #FordSchoolRosenthal Lecture honors U-M graduate & 9/11 victim Josh Rosenthal. Peter Bergen will discuss the attacks' impact on US national security. Register: myumi.ch/pgRWd

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Mark your calendars! Democracy Week is September 14-19. 📅 Over 5 days, conversations, workshops, and civic action opportunities will be happening across campus. Learn more about Democracy Week events: myumi.ch/d8QVR

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Health care, education, economic security, housing. These systems shape everyday life, & they're deeply interconnected. Join us on September 18 for the Kohn Social Policy Conference, which asks: What can a city do to promote human thriving? More info: myumi.ch/Pbrbk

Graphic with a city street with tall, modern buildings under a partly cloudy sky. The text reads: "Kohn Social Policy Conference. Examine how local-level policy solutions can strengthen these systems and help residents, families, & communities thrive."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Interested in turning analysis into action? We offer residential and online programs designed to equip you with the tools for real-world impact. Our admissions team is traveling to NYC, DC, IL, across MI, and online this fall! See the schedule: myumi.ch/X8XjP #FutureFordies

speaking at a microphone. Text reads: “Master of Public Policy. Shape policy with evidence and purpose. Turn analysis into action. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

Graphic featuring a person working on a computer. Text reads: “Online Master of Public Affairs. Shape policy. Drive Change. Build expertise and confidence while continuing your career. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

Graphic featuring a person holding a microphone, smiling. Text reads: “Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy. Make your Michigan years count. Build analytical skills for a career with public impact. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

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