In a move to deepen its commitment to creating thriving communities, the University of Michigan has announced the 2026-27 academic year as the “Year of Human Health and Well-Being.” This initiative is part of the university’s broader Look to Michigan vision, which aims to establish Michigan as a leader in promoting health and wellness both locally and globally.
New Theme Year: Human Health and Well-Being
The upcoming theme year promises a focus on human health, offering the University of Michigan community a wealth of programming, events, and educational opportunities. “At Michigan, improving human health and well-being is work we do every day,” remarked Provost Laurie McCauley. “This theme year is a chance to build on that strength and bring our community together around what it means to help people thrive.”
Core Objectives of the Impact Area
Central to the Human Health and Well-Being initiative are five objectives aimed at creating a vibrant, health-conscious community:
- Encourage a health-focused campus environment that supports mental, physical, and emotional wellness.
- Advance public health through innovative patient care and strategic collaborations addressing global health challenges.
- Address health disparities by targeting research and clinical innovations to benefit underserved populations.
- Set a national benchmark for healthcare delivery through research excellence and quality patient outcomes.
- Promote scientific advancement by fostering a research ecosystem that translates discoveries into practical applications.
David C. Miller, CEO of Michigan Medicine and executive vice president for medical affairs, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the university’s mission, stating, “The Year of Human Health and Well-Being reflects something fundamental to our mission at the University of Michigan: an understanding that health is not defined solely by the care we deliver, but by the environments we create, the discoveries we pursue, and the communities we serve.”
Leadership and Future Plans
The theme year will be spearheaded by leaders across various disciplines:
- John Ayanian – Director of the Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation and professor at multiple university schools.
- Rob Ernst – Chief health officer and associate vice president for health and wellness.
- Karen Schmidt – Senior director of MHealthy, Health and Well-being Services.
Interim Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Bobby Hewlett emphasized the university’s dedication, saying, “The university’s commitment to human health and well-being is reflected in so many ways, including in how we invest in the systems and resources that support our community every day.”
Throughout the year, the co-leaders, along with campus stakeholders, will develop a comprehensive framework to guide programming and events. These priorities and key events will be outlined on the Look to Michigan and Human Health and Well-Being websites, with detailed announcements expected this fall.
The Human Health and Well-Being theme follows the ongoing “Life-Changing Education” theme year and the inaugural “Democracy, Civic & Global Engagement” theme, marking a continued emphasis on impactful educational themes at the University of Michigan.
