We want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed to and participated in the LEAD Scholars program over the past 16 years. After careful consideration, the Alumni Association has made the decision to discontinue the LEAD Scholars program.

FAQs

Q: Why was the LEAD Scholars program discontinued?
The Alumni Association made the decision to discontinue the LEAD Scholars program to ensure it is complying with federal and state laws as well as recent guidance from the federal government. While difficult, this decision does not reflect on the success of the LEAD Scholars program or the hard work of the nearly 900 students the program supported over the years.

Q: What does this mean for current LEAD Scholars?
All LEAD Scholars programming has been discontinued, but there will be no adverse financial impact to current LEAD students.

Q: Why was the decision made now?
In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, the Alumni Association decided the program must be discontinued to ensure it is complying with all applicable laws. We realized there never would be a good time to announce the decision, but the Association wanted to tell students and donors as soon as possible.

Q: What is the Alumni Association doing to support current LEAD Scholars?
The Alumni Association will work with current LEAD Scholars during this transition, and each Scholar is encouraged to contact program leaders at [email protected] to set up a one-on-one discussion to make them aware of financial options and opportunities so they can continue their studies. The Alumni Association remains committed to our Scholars and ensuring they have a successful academic experience at the University of Michigan.

Q: What other financial resources are available for LEAD Scholars?
Below are resources available to all U-M students:

• U-M Alumni Club Scholarships
• Office of Financial Aid
• CEW+ Scholarships
• LSA Returning Student Scholarship
• Engineering Student Scholarships
• Student Emergency Funds

Q: Are other Alumni Association or University programs or scholarships ending?
The Alumni Association will continue to offer all other alumni and student programming. Any questions about University programs should be directed to those specific programs.

Q: Does the Alumni Association plan to offer any other scholarship program moving forward?
The Alumni Association is evaluating how to move forward with a new program, focusing on needs-based scholarship support. More information will be shared soon.