The Martha Cook Board of Governors works in partnership with Michigan Housing to preserve the unique character and traditions of the Martha Cook Building. Each member is appointed by the President of the University of Michigan and (in most cases) are Martha Cook alumnae.
When the Martha Cook Building was built I thought the occupants should be self-governing, like a sorosis. President Hutchins and my brother Chauncey persuaded me to add a board of governors. That was wise. - William Cook
The Board of Governors plays a vital role in the stewardship of the Building. It's members are appointed today by the U-M President and all serve without financial compensation. The role they carry out is described in their bylaws:
Read the job description for members of the Martha Cook Board of Governors.
The function of the Board of Governors, with the approval of the President of the University of Michigan, and within the University structure, is to set policy for the management of the Martha Cook Building (MCB), to maintain and foster an environment of congenial living and growth, to maintain the traditions of MCB, to approve the budget and expenses of the Building, to maintain the historic Building itself, and to oversee the Building’s staff. The Board will also foster good working relationships with other departments of the University.
To receive email communications from the Martha Cook Building, please send an email to [email protected] with SUBSCRIBE in the subject line. In the body of the message, please let us know your relationship or interest in the Martha Cook Building.
Deb Day Jansen BS ’75, MS ’77
Colleges and universities have relied on quarantines and other public health guidance to survive pandemics. The Spanish Flu of 1918 and Covid-19 in 2020 are no exception. The public health plans for both pandemics in the state of Michigan, city of Ann Arbor, and on the University of Michigan campus have many similarities. Both pandemics required wearing masks and closing public entertainment and schools. The University in both pandemics considered cancelling classes.
Renée D. McKinney joined the Board of Governors this summer and was appointed by University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel to serve until 2023. She is a 1991 University of Michigan graduate (A.B.History) and a 1995 graduate (MILS with a concentration in Archives and Records Management).
