The 75th U-M Congressional Breakfast marked a record by raising over $147,000 for the Samuel L. Chappell Family Scholarship, the largest amount in its seven-decade history. Held on Feb. 25 in Washington, D.C., the event attracted nearly 350 attendees, including alumni, students, and policymakers, to support the U-M Alumni Club of Washington, D.C.’s need-based scholarship program. This annual gathering celebrates the U-M community and strengthens ties with federal policymakers, showcasing the university’s national impact through education and research.
Key speakers included President Domenico Grasso, Alumni Association CEO Ayanna McConnell, and U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., who delivered the keynote address. In his speech, Grasso reflected on U-M’s future and its role as a leading public institution. “I’m excited and optimistic about what comes next for Michigan,” he stated, emphasizing the university’s commitment to redefining higher education’s power in serving humanity.
McConnell highlighted the global achievements of U-M alumni and the significance of scholarship support in expanding access for Washington, D.C. area students. The Samuel L. Chappell Family Scholarship, established in 1998, reflects the alumni’s dedication to creating opportunities and enhancing the university’s public impact.
Rep. McClain emphasized U-M’s research role in innovation and economic strength, stating, “This breakfast is about more than just a 75-year tradition; it’s about fueling the next breakthrough in medicine, artificial intelligence, and public service.” The event was attended by numerous Congressional members, including Democratic Sens. Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin, and Rep. Debbie Dingell, highlighting U-M’s influence in the nation’s capital.
With over 21,000 U-M alumni in the D.C. region, including 3,600 Alumni Association members, the U-M presence is robust. The club not only hosts the breakfast but also offers year-round professional and cultural events, including community service like the annual Thanksgiving meal at the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Through scholarships and advocacy, U-M alumni in Washington continue to extend the university’s mission, impacting communities far beyond the Ann Arbor campus.
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