Giving Blueday 2025

Giving Blueday is the University of Michigan's annual day of giving, uniting the global U-M community in a celebration and support of all things maize and blue.

In 2025, Michigan Biophysics is prioritizing the Kevin Wood Memorial Graduate Student Fund. Together, lets honor Professor Wood's legacy by investing in the bright minds that will drive scientific discovery forward.

We invite you to join us in preserving the enduring legacy of Professor Kevin B. Wood, a cherished friend, colleague, and mentor who profoundly impacted the lives of many through his dedication to teaching and mentoring. In memory of his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists, the Professor Kevin B. Wood Memorial Fund has been established to support graduate students in the field of biophysics.

Professor Wood exemplified the ideals of collegiality and scholarship, prioritizing the personal and professional development of each student he mentored. He believed strongly in providing opportunities that foster growth, both academically and beyond. This fund honors his vision by offering critical support to graduate students in biophysics, empowering them to pursue innovative research, attend important conferences, and seize career development opportunities that might otherwise be beyond their reach.

Gifts to the Fund will directly impact students by:

• Facilitating Travel for Conferences and Workshops: Enabling students to present their research on national and international stages, broadening their horizons and fostering connections within the scientific community.
• Supporting Specialized Research Endeavors: Providing financial resources for unique research projects that require specialized equipment or methodologies.
• Offering Career Development Opportunities: Assisting students in gaining skills and experiences that enhance their transition from academia to their professional careers.

Your support of the inaugural Professor Kevin B. Wood Memorial Fund will ensure that his passion for student advancement continues to inspire and empower future leaders in biophysics. Together, let us honor Professor Wood's legacy by investing in the bright minds that will drive scientific discovery forward.

First-time U-M donors who contribute $50 or more will have their donation matched with an additional $50. Please note that this offer excludes current U-M students and is available on a first-come, first-served basis, up to a total of $60,000.

Current U-M students can receive a $25 match when they donate $25 or more. This offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a total of $50,000 available for matching. Note that this promotion excludes alumni.

On Giving Blueday, the top 3 funds that receive the most gifts from current U-M faculty and staff will receive the following additional contributions from the University:

• 1st place - $2,000
• 2nd place - $1,000
• 3rd place - $1,000