President Domenico Grasso, joined by representatives from across U-M’s campuses, will share institutional accomplishments and goals during a Look to Michigan State of the University Address at 9:15 a.m. Nov. 13.

The event will be livestreamed and available to the university community and the public. A recording will be available to watch following the live broadcast. In-person attendance is by invitation only. 

Grasso will share updates on major priorities and new initiatives, and their relationship to significant challenges facing higher education.

The address will also include faculty, staff and students, who will provide a deeper look at the major impact areas that comprise the Look to Michigan vision. Presentations will be a blend of live remarks, panel discussions and video storytelling:

Life-Changing Education

Jason Fettig, professor of music in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance and director of University Bands, will talk about the U-M Symphony’s Band’s recent statewide tour — its first in 30 years. Several students who participated in the clinics and concerts will also perform.

Human Health and Well-Being

Ariella Shikanov, professor of biomedical engineering in the College of Engineering and the Medical School, and professor of obstetrics and gynecology in the Medical School, will share work from her laboratory to develop an artificial ovary.

Democracy, Civic, and Global Engagement

Javed Ali, clinical associate professor of public policy in the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, will moderate a discussion about cybersecurity and election protection, featuring Hafiz Malik, professor of electrical and computer engineering and associate dean in the College of Engineering and Computer Science at UM-Dearborn, and Khalid Malik, professor of computer science and director of cybersecurity at the College of Innovation and Technology at UM-Flint.

Energy, Climate Action, Sustainability and Environmental Equity

Tony G. Reames, Tishman Professor of Environmental Justice and associate professor of environment and sustainability in the School for Environment and Sustainability, and director of the Detroit Sustainability Clinic, along with Lisa DuRussel, clinical associate professor of practice and engagement in landscape architecture in SEAS, will join students to showcase the clinic’s partnership with Sidewalk Detroit and the city of Detroit to restore the 250-acre Eliza Howell Park.

Advanced technology

Anja Sheppard, a Ph.D. candidate in robotics, will share the Field Robotics Group’s research using underwater vehicles and artificial intelligence to survey for undiscovered shipwrecks.