A message from Jay Noren, President of Wayne State University

For those with a thirst for knowledge, Wayne State University is an engaging and powerful magnet for southeast Michigan. Much of its recent growth and development is being catalyzed by Wayne First: The Campaign for Wayne State University. The campaign is stimulating initiatives that enhance opportunities for students and enable faculty and researchers to excel in their disciplines.

Wayne First has inspired the largest philanthropic gifts ever to the university. While these commitments are critical to achieving ambitious goals, thousands of donors have made much smaller investments. To date, the campaign has garnered financial commitments exceeding $867 million. This exemplary achievement dispels the myth that small gifts do not make a difference. On the contrary, when gifts of all sizes are combined, they equal BIG dollars!

Many gifts are from supporters who donate year after year. Yet most of the contributions to the Wayne First campaign are from first-time givers, representing a 25 percent increase in the number of donors to Wayne State. The growth in the donor base underscores the importance of the campaign’s efforts to increase student support, enhance faculty resources and programs, and provide the best educational facilities.

Only a few months remain until Wayne First: The Campaign for Wayne State University comes to an end on December 31, 2008. While there is much reason to celebrate the support received so far, many more objectives must be met in order to maintain the high-quality educational experience Wayne State provides.

In order to continue building its outstanding record in scholarship and research, supporting superlative instruction in every unit, offering an enriching campus life, and extending its outreach to southeast Michigan and beyond, Wayne State needs you to be a part of the campaign. Your donation will help build on the campaign’s success and ensure that Wayne State continues to achieve its mission far into the future.

Every gift – regardless of size – makes an important difference to Wayne State University.