University of Michigan staff members can apply through Feb. 28 for up to $1,500 to support professional development through the Career Development Fund for Staff.
The fund was originally announced in November 2022 to provide $200,000 annually for five years. Due to overwhelming interest, the Office of the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer committed to doubling that amount for each of the remaining four years.
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Now in its third year, the program continues to support the university’s commitment to staff development.
“We are excited to continue offering resources that help our amazing staff to flourish,” said Geoff Chatas, executive vice president and chief financial officer. “By maintaining strong financial support, our goal is to assist staff in reaching new heights and driving organizational excellence.”
This year, the application process has been streamlined to a shorter form, and an impartial, random selection method for eligible applications has been adopted to enhance transparency and inclusivity.
Only individual development grants will be awarded this year, simplifying disbursement and allowing for more grants.
“By refining the fund and making the process more efficient, we are better equipped to support the professional journeys of our staff,” said Rich Holcomb, associate vice president for human resources. “Empowering our staff’s growth is essential to being leaders and best.”
Grants will be awarded in the spring. Recipients can use the funds for development activities between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, either as a reimbursement for incurred expenses or as an advance for upcoming opportunities.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the U-M Staff Career Development Fund for supporting my attendance at The Heart of It (THOI) writing retreat,” said Liz Fisher, communications manager for the Michigan Institute for Clinical & Health Research.
“Sharing time with other writers in a space that celebrated authenticity and connection was an unparalleled experience. I came away from the retreat more in tune with the world and people around me in a way that has positively influenced my writing and life.”
