Darcy Brandel, a lecturer in creative writing in the Residential College and with U-M’s Semester in Detroit program, has worked as an end-of-life doula, also referred to as a “death doula,” for more than three years.

“We’ve had a wide range of committed, passionate, very intelligent U-M students who are willing to use their time and talents to help our neighborhood and our mission. That’s priceless.”
~ Debbie Fisher, executive director of HOPE Village Revitalization

Students are encouraged to be mindful of their identities when entering a space they’re not from, and to always lead with a respect for the work that is already being done. 

Jamon Jordan founded the Black Scroll Network, which gives walking history tours to people looking to learn more about the history of Detroit.

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.

The first Semester in Detroit took place in Winter 2009 with 14 participants, partnering with organizations such as Alternatives for Girls, Detroit Eastside Community Collaborative, and the Urban League of Southeastern Michigan.

Over twelve years ago, University of Michigan undergraduate Rachael Tanner asked herself a simple question: Why doesn’t U-M provide substantive opportunities for students to engage with Detroit?  Her urban studies professor, Stephen Ward, was intrigued by her motivation and encouraged her to write up her ideas for her final class project.

SiD.10 will be a re-immersion in Detroit, featuring communal dinners, music and dancing, and community conversations about the city’s past, present, and future. Registration is open for the weekend event now.