Since our founding as a medical college in 1868, Wayne State University has played a vital role in the life, growth and well-being of our city and state. From students and faculty embedded in our health care systems to cutting-edge research on eliminating health disparities, we actively empower a healthier population in Michigan. In my role as Director of State Affairs in University Relations, I work to highlight our impact and ensure elected officials recognize how our work supports their priorities and benefits all Michiganders.  

Michigan lawmakers continue to recognize our tremendous impact through ongoing financial support, at a time when competing interests vie for increasingly limited resources. The state’s budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year includes significant investment in Wayne State’s health initiatives; in total, the legislature has allocated roughly $230 million in operational funding and more than $45 million in program-specific support — a 20% annual increase, following three years of sustained growth.  

Many Wayne State-led, state-supported programs have become springboards for collaboration and blueprints for improving health across Michigan. For example, the Michigan Doctors Improving Access to Care (MIDOCS) program, launched in 2018 to address physician shortages in underserved urban communities, has expanded to address the needs of the state’s rural areas. Work led by Wayne State’s Office of Women’s Health has led to the creation of the SOS Maternity Network driving partnerships with multiple universities and health care systems united in their shared goal to support infant and maternal health.  

We are thankful to have received new or increased funding for the following: 

• A $4 million appropriation for the Healthcare Workforce Office, which will enhance the health care workforce pipeline, improve retention and reduce turnover, and lead research on alternative models of clinical education.  

• An increase in funding from $6.4 million to $11 million for the MIDOCS program.  

• $2.6 million – nearly doubling the funding – for the Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center, the state’s only poison control center.   

• An increase and maintained support for the SOS Maternity Network, with total funding reaching $11 million.  

We are also appreciative to have funding maintained for the following: 

• The Lycaki-Young Center ($5.6 million) to address mental and behavioral health and substance abuse 

• The Frontline Strong program ($2.5 million) to help address mental health and PTSD among first responders 

• $7.1 million for community-based health care, which includes funding for Wayne Health’s Mobile Health Units 

This momentum is fueled by the talented faculty and staff who create and deliver programs that bring cutting-edge care to our communities.  The University Relations team looks forward to continuing to advocate for all the critical work that Wayne State brings to our city, region and state.  

Please reach out if you have any questions, would like more information or want to share an idea.  

Sincerely,  

Dave Greco 
Director of State Relations 
University Relations