Private gifts play a critical role in maintaining and advancing the mission of James Madison College. Your donations in support of student scholarships, faculty development, and residential college activities provide the extra resources that make a Madison education second to none. Public institutions like Michigan State University receive most of their funding from state government appropriations and student tuition, but these dollars are limited. Private financial support from alumni and friends has become a major and growing source of revenue to enhance programs and create new initiatives at the College.
In March 2025, MSU unveiled the university's largest, most ambitious $4 billion multiyear comprehensive campaign. Learn more about JMC's top priorities below, which will tackle the greatest challenges facing our students and our global community.
We prioritize student success by creating a supportive environment that enhances accessibility and achievement for all. Our multi-year scholarships attract top talent, while also funding research and conference participation that enhances the Madison educational experience. Early Start Programming aids first-generation students, and the College Emergency Fund provides financial support during crises. Together, these efforts will ensure all students have access to opportunities for success.
Our goal is to empower students by strengthening programs that foster community engagement, research and faculty-student mentorship while nurturing leadership skills. Career exploration initiatives will allow more students to discover new pathways and make connections that equip them for future success. These efforts are designed to inspire achievement and create lasting impact.
Collaborative scholarship is central to the residential college experience, where faculty and students engage in research and cross-college partnerships. The Human Rights Data Science Lab exemplifies this by using technology to research human rights violations and share findings. Students gain valuable skills in data analysis and real-world experience in national security. An endowed research fund for faculty would support further interdisciplinary collaborations like these, while expanding endowed faculty positions to strengthen research leadership and enrich education.
James Madison supports educational experiences by offering hands-on opportunities that drive academic, personal and professional growth. Study Away, Study Abroad and internships will expand students’ horizons, with scholarships ensuring access for first-generation and low-income students. Additionally, programs like Undergraduate Research and DC Study Away will foster collaboration, career readiness and cross-unit partnerships in fields like social science and communications.
Douglas Hoekstra was one of the college’s earliest faculty members and remained at JMC for 36 years. In 2007, students, alumni and friends of the college established an endowment in his memory. Hear from three recent recipients about what the scholarship meant to them.
Troy Calkins (‘88) graduated from James Madison College with a degree in international relations and earned his law degree from University of Michigan Law School in 1991. Through a gift to JMC, Calkins created a bridge program for first-generation students.
Connect with Joseph Agosta (agostaj@msu.edu), associate director of development, to learn more.