Architecture graduate student Torri Smith is a Detroit native with a passion to elevate the diverse narratives of minority students in the design field.

The focus of this past year’s Student Design Competition was the Midtown Cultural Center, a district in Detroit consisting of multiple cultural institutions. Students were challenged to utilize technology to support the mission of the Midtown Cultural Center.

Local philanthropist Waltraud “Wally” Prechter is offering to match up to $1 million in gifts that support the School of Education’s work on the P-20 partnership. Qualifying donations will support teacher education, students with scholarships and training in Detroit; advance curriculum development, implementation and evaluation; and further the professional growth of Detroit educators. 

C3’s focus is on a few of the counties most effected by the pandemic: Wayne, Genesee, Kent, and Washtenaw. Within these communities, they’re examining communication channels among the African-American and Latino populations in addition to messaging to promote healthy choices.

The greatest discrepancy between those willing and unwilling to vaccinate is related to how they view science on the effectiveness of the vaccine and the advice of doctors. While 94% of people likely to vaccinate say scientific findings on vaccine effectiveness are important to their decision, just 62% of those unlikely to vaccinate say it is important.

“What I love about DYV is the focus on simultaneously cultivating beautiful humanity and musicianship in each child. Their individual personal development is just as important to Clara as their music education.”
~ Monifa Lindo, mother of Detroit Youth Volume student

An important aspect of their mission is to continue building meaningful partnerships with businesses and organizations in the Detroit area that support and advance Detroit youth. Detroit Kids Matter is an online business with occasional pop-ups. 

“As we build a place that more North End residents are involved with and proud of, and as more community needs are served, we know the North End will thrive.”

~ Jerry Ann Hebron, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm director

The task force’s report on engagement in Detroit is used as a guide across campus to ensure that research and engagement projects are conducted in an equitable and mutually beneficial manner. The task force was chaired by Robert Sellers, vice provost and chief diversity officer, and included representatives from all areas of campus.