Michigan’s research universities are an important factor in helping change the Michigan economy, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, told a group attending the annual U-M Congressional Breakfast in Washington, D.C.
Rogers cited how Michigan auto factories became bomber factories during World War II and saluted the innovation occurring today as the state re-makes itself, most notably with battery-driven automobiles soon to hit the market.
“With industry and our research universities working together, we will see a brighter future for our state,” Rogers said.
The Congressional Breakfast is one of the largest annual gatherings of U-M alumni and campus leaders in the nation. All proceeds support the U-M D.C. Club’s scholarship fund.
Provost Teresa Sullivan also addressed the gathering of more than 300 people, which included other members of the Michigan congressional delegation and staff, Michigan corporate sponsors and local alumni, as well as Dr. Ahmed Fathi Sorour, speaker of the Egyptian Parliament and a U-M graduate.
In her remarks, Sullivan talked about President Mary Sue Coleman’s new initiative on inter-disciplinary research, and concurred with Rogers that “our state is down, but not out.”
Sullivan also discussed the University’s commitment to ensuring access to higher education and thanked the local D.C. alumni club for contributing $25,000 a year in scholarship support.
“Our students have big dreams for the future — and with your help, they will realize them,” Sullivan added.
