UM: Economy

Writing in the Toledo Blade, columnist Jack Lessenberry talks with UM president Mary Sue Coleman about the economic woes facing the university. When she took the job in 2002, the unemployment rate in Michigan was 5.7%, compared to the current 13.1%. Lessenberry describes several investments the university has made under Coleman’s tenure, like UM’s purchase last year of Pfizer’s former site and the $226 million renovation of Michigan Stadium. Coleman says that in comparison to other schools, the UM is financially well off. She tells Lessenberry, “I’m having the time of my life. This is an endlessly exciting place, and I couldn’t go anyplace else. It would be a disappointment.” [Source]