The Student Philanthropy Cord Program is in partnership with the Alumni Association to recognize the tradition of students' generosity that goes all the way back to the university's founding. Each year we recognize graduating students who made a donation to U-M.

Here's how it works:

Graduating students who make a gift of $20.27 to anywhere at U-M will receive an exclusive graduation cord in recognition of their support. 

Where do I give?

There are thousands of causes to support at Michigan, including: student orgs, Alumni Association memberships, the Maize & Blue Cupboard, CAPS, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, scholarship funds, the Career Center, and many more. Check them out here.

How do I get my cord?

We are scheduling pickup dates and locations for both the fall and winter semesters. This site will be updated as they are scheduled, and we will email eligible students. 

Have more questions? We've got you covered:

Does making a gift on Giving Blueday count?

Yes, as long as the gift is $20.27 or more and you are a graduating student.

*Note: do not make a gift in cash.

What’s the deadline to make a gift?

Gifts starting July 1, 2026 will be eligible for a graduation cord.

I can’t make it to any of those times, how can I still get my cord?

Please email studentphilanthropy@umich.edu and we will try to find an alternative time, but it is unlikely we can accommodate everyone's schedule.

I made a gift, but I don’t remember when or how much. How do I find out if I get a cord?

Please email studentphilanthropy@umich.edu with your name and U-M email address.

I made a gift, do I have to do anything else?

If you made a gift after July 1, 2026 and are a graduating student, all you need to do is pick up your grad cord.

I'm graduating in December of 2026, do I still get a cord?

More details will be announced, but yes, all graduating students are eligible.

I'm an out of state student, how do I get my cord?

We will do our best to make accommodations, but please know we cannot accommodate all requests.

What color is the grad cord?

Silver and white.

I have more questions that I don't see addressed here. Who do I reach out to?

No problem, please reach out to studentphilanthropy@umich.edu. We'll get back to you as soon as we can.