Class Gift '09

For the past 28 years, each graduating class organizes a campaign for the purpose of presenting a gift to the Ross School, thereby stepping into our roles as alumni. Through this effort, the Class of 2009 will join together in making a pledge of financial support to ensure the future strength and success of Ross.

After considering more than 15 different ideas and discussing them with section leaders, school officials and others, the class gift committee (led by Amy Huang, Emily Reyna, Yogev Shimony, Evan Lieberman and Eddie Hall) decided on the MBA and BBA Class of 2009 gift. This year's gift will be the renovation of Ross's Interview Suites. Our theme is "Revitalize Kresge". These interview suites which are often recruiters' first-impression of Ross, do not reflect the brand and quality of the Ross MBA in their current state.

Having top-notch interview facilities is extremely important to maintain Ross's competitive advantage. According to Al Cotrone, Director of Career Services and Student Affairs "The environment for career searches at our level is competitive even without a bleak economic forecast. In that kind of environment, every edge that Ross can have over other schools is important." Mr. Cotrone is very excited about the prospect of renovating the current interview suites: "The wherewithal to renovate the space where our recruiting partners spend their time while at Ross will give our students a chance to compete on their merits knowing that external factors are not detracting from their presentation."

According to school officials a feasibility study will be conducted in Summer/Fall 2009 to decide on how to proceed with the revamp of the old building.

Making a pledge to the Class Gift is vital to Ross's brand. It signals the graduate's value of the education we received. In addition, the percentage of Ross students who pledge is benchmarked against other schools and used in school rankings. Last year 90% of the graduating MBA class and 54% of the BBA class (a total of 546 students) pledged for sum of $108,984 towards a Non-Profit/Unpaid Internship Fund. We are fully aware that these are tough economic times and that many students are still in the process of securing employment. Nevertheless we encourage all graduating students to join us in giving back to Ross in whatever capacity they can. Let's create a Class of 2009 legacy by reaching 100% participation this year!Questions? Want to Get Involved? Email: classgift09@umich.edu