April 6-10, 2026: Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

WHEREAS, Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week, sponsored by the National Association of Graduate-Professional Students, raises awareness of the role of graduate and professional students within America's colleges and universities; and,

WHEREAS, the economy of the state of Michigan is strengthened by the research and development efforts of graduate and professional students; and,

WHEREAS, graduate and professional students in the state of Michigan, through their notable accomplishments and outstanding achievements, have contributed tremendously to the community; and,

WHEREAS, graduate and professional students are the future teaching professionals, researchers, and leaders of the state, the nation, and the world; and,

WHEREAS, many graduate and professional students move to Michigan for their education and stay after graduation, having families, starting companies, and building a more populous and prosperous Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, there are over 80,000 graduate and professional students enrolled in Michigan's universities; and,

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 6-10, 2026 as Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week in Michigan.