#1 in policy analysis, #2 in social policy, and once again in the top 5 among schools of public affairs. #GoBlue #BestGradSchools
These new @usnews rankings by our peers underscore the caliber and influence of the Ford School’s academic programs and faculty. Visit the link in our bio to read more.
What do a platypus and the economy have in common? @justinwolfers explains his plans to help more people make sense of today’s economy and political climate.
We sat down with him to discuss the launch of @platypuseconomics , covering everything from the startup’s core vision to the story behind the "Platypus" name.
Click the link in bio to read the Q&A.
“Economics is not about money.”
Learn about this and other misconceptions @justinwolfers wants to correct on @platypuseconomics , his new platform to make economics more accessible.
Read the full Q&A at the link in bio!
From arguing cases for the Justice Department to investigating why expanded social benefits were rolled back, #KohnProfessor Samuel Bagenstos explores the intersection of law, policy, and public service. 🏛️
“I have values that I really care about and commitments in the world that matter to me. I want to seriously explore the ideas that interest me and follow them where they lead."
Read “Can scholarship shape democracy?” in State & Hill at the link in our bio!
#FordSchoolKohn #SocialPolicy #DisabilityRights #PublicImpact #PublicService #LawAndPolicy
“So much of being a public servant is about listening. The data can tell us so much, but we need to listen to the people affected,” - Ben Zukowski (BA '13)
When it comes to protecting our planet, Zukowski believes the key isn't just in science, but in listening to those living closest to the land. But first, he says, you have to know how to ask the right questions. 🌱
He leads collaborative efforts among federal, state, and tribal governments; local communities; and environmental groups at the Udall Foundation.
Read more about Ben’s journey after the Ford School at the link in our bio!
#AlumniImpact
What’s the ROI of public school? Should the state offer transitional kindergarten? Why do eligible college students leave financial aid on the table? 🔍
The Education Policy Initiative’s Michigan Education Data Center helps us understand what works—and why—in education, to inform decision-making. Now, it’s inspiring similar efforts nationwide.
It’s made possible by a partnership among the Michigan Departments of Education: Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential; and the Center for Educational Performance and Information, along with Michigan State University's Education Policy Innovation Collaboration.
Read more in the latest edition of State & Hill at the link in bio!
#AI regulation, #biotech, and #EnergyPolicy are moving fast. The Science, Technology and Public Policy Program's post-graduate fellowship places technical experts with Michigan lawmakers to provide nonpartisan research and analysis.
Read about the fellowship in this spring’s State & Hill at the link in bio!
What happens when universities partner with the public sector? Find out in the latest edition of our magazine, State & Hill!
Explore the policy-academic ecosystem—the relationships and policy tools that produce research, test solutions, and scale what works.
Comment “State & Hill” for the link to read the online version!
We were so proud to celebrate the achievements of the graduating Classes of 2026 at commencement. You did it, #Fordies! 〽️ 💙
Photos from #FordSchool26 commencement are now available!
Visit the link in our bio to view the Flickr album!
#MGoGrad
Missed Pamela Herd’s #FordSchoolKohn lecture, "Making it hard: How administrative burdens affect inequality”?
She dove deep into how learning, compliance, and psychological costs act as hidden hurdles that deepen inequality and undermine our social promises.
Click the link in bio to listen to the full lecture!
Huge congratulations to Ford School PhDs Benjamin Goehring (PhD ’25) and Owen Kay (PhD ’25) on their recognition by the Rackham Graduate School at the ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Awards!
Out of a competitive field of scholars, their doctoral work stood out for its rigor and real-world impact:
🏆 Benjamin Goehring: Winner, ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Award. Benjamin’s research, "The States of American Bureaucracy," examines the mechanics of state government turnover—from the effects of civil service protections to the impact of extreme heat on correctional officers in Texas.
🏅 Owen Kay: Honorable Mention. Owen was recognized for his insightful work, "Essays on Optimal Energy Policy."
Join us in applauding Ben and Owen for their incredible work! 👏
Read more at the link in bio.
Congratulations to Margaret Peterman (BA ‘27) and Edra Timmerman (BA ‘26) on their award-winning performances at the 2026 Midwest Model European Union!
Awards:
🥇 Margaret Peterman: 1st Place, Economics and Finance Committee
🥉 Edra Timmerman: 3rd Place, Environmental Affairs Committee
Representing the Bulgarian government, Peterman, Timmerman, and 3 other Ford School students - Gabriel Sanroman (BA ‘27), Patrick Szendro Arceo (BA ‘26), and Leah Adams (BA ‘27) - spent three days debating high-stakes international policy alongside 20+ universities.
"This competition was the perfect way to finish my undergraduate career and showcase the culmination of my experiences at U-M," said Timmerman.
Way to represent, #Fordies! 〽️
Read more at the link in bio.
