UM-Flint The logo for the University of Michigan - Flint

Office of Government & Community Relations

Partnerships & Progress for the Campus & Community

Welcome to the Office of Government & Community Relations (OGCR). Our office serves to facilitate relationships between the University of Michigan-Flint and external stakeholders, including leaders in government, business, and the community.

Students First
OGCR actively promotes the university’s strategic priorities, academic success, and the financial needs of our students. Advocacy for continued state support and the continuation of financial aid programs is essential to student success.

A Distinctive UM-Flint
OGCR links elected officials and other decision-makers to the nationally ranked research, programs, and achievements of our institution. We advocate for state and federal legislation that enhances the mission of UM-Flint. We drive cross-divisional advocacy, identify state and federal agency programs, and facilitate pathways to access resources in support of student and faculty academic and research endeavors.

Global Competitiveness
We advance the university’s global reach and impact by supporting academic and student programs that facilitate an environment of international welcome, learning, and dialogue. OGCR is facilitating relationships to address government policies impacting international students.

Regional Impact
OGCR champions an active platform for regional engagement, service, and partnerships. As the primary liaison to the communities within the University of Michigan footprint, OGCR has regular contact with stakeholders. We help to leverage the resources and assets of the University to impact and transform our community.

Organization Stewardship
As the university has grown, so has the number of connections and contributions to the vitality of the region. OGCR strives to provide avenues of communication highlighting the university’s dynamic and progressive culture.

Government Relations

Government Relations personnel are engaged with the city and regional entities that are impacted by the operations of the university. Community Relations and State Outreach personnel work with local officials and organizations throughout Michigan to explore and establish relationships that bring the resources and talents of the university to assist with addressing community interests. Our office also assists in the management of the annual UM-Flint United Way Campaign.

Local Relations

State Relations
OGCR monitors legislation of interest to universities generally and UM-Flint specifically; facilitates legislative and administration meetings and issue briefings for UM-Flint faculty and staff; provides assistance for university people on business in Lansing; and serves as a clearinghouse on government activities, places, people. Legislative inquiries are handled concerning the university’s academic, research and operations activities and its views on pending legislation. The office serves university faculty, staff, and students, as well as members of the Legislature and state government officials and agencies. The office also works closely with the state higher education association and other coalitions to advance the university’s agenda in Lansing.

Michigan House of Representatives

Michigan Senate

Additional Resources

Federal Relations
University of Michigan Washington, D.C. office monitors legislation of interest to universities generally and U-M specifically; facilitates congressional and administration meetings and issue briefings for U-M faculty and staff; provides office space for University people on business in Washington; and serves as a clearinghouse on government activities, places, people and employment opportunities. The office serves university faculty, staff, and students, as well as members of Congress and federal government officials and agencies. The office also works closely with higher education associations and coalitions to advance the university’s agenda in Washington.

Activities include monitoring legislation of interest to universities; facilitating congressional and administration meetings and issue briefings for UM faculty and staff; providing office space for university people on business in Washington; and serving as a clearinghouse on government activities, places, people, and employment opportunities. Congressional inquiries are handled concerning the university’s academic and research activities and its views on pending legislation.

The Washington, D.C. staff directly serve university faculty, staff, and students, as well as members of Congress and federal government officials and agencies.

Community Relations

OGCR coordinates partnerships with the university, local government, and the Flint community organizations. The office is a primary point of contact with the City of Flint on areas of mutual concern.

UM-Flint is strongly committed to helping our local community thrive. Every day, our faculty, students, and staff are making significant contributions to the economic vitality and quality of life in the City of Flint, Genesee County, and the State of Michigan.

Complete the Flint River Restoration Community Survey here.