I am proud to say that throughout all of the challenges of the last twelve months, the members of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service have remained committed to supporting our students in every way we can.
We have been particularly focused on ensuring that students are able to sustain their forward progress in professional development, civic engagement, public leadership, and public service. In 2020, we served as the primary facilitator of UF’s Get Out the Vote efforts, supported students pursuing virtual internships, and offered a robust set of virtual public and student programs on a wide range of issues.
And while we were already moving in this direction, the pandemic has given new urgency and meaning to a Public Health Civics initiative we are launching this spring semester.
Our ability to continue to offer our students and the broader UF community such wonderful opportunities throughout the pandemic and beyond is made possible by the contributions of our many supporters.
We are thankful for each and every one of you and your wonderful generosity.
On February 18, the University of Florida holds its annual Gator Nation Giving Day. As we gradually move beyond the pandemic, there will be pent-up student demand for in-person internships, research, and other similar opportunities.
Through the David Colburn Student Opportunities Fund, named for former history professor, UF Provost, and my predecessor as director of the Graham Center, Dr. David Colburn, the Center is able to have a direct positive impact by providing financial support for students pursuing experiential learning opportunities outside of Gainesville.
Please consider contributing to these efforts at this link, whether it’s on Feb. 18 or at any point in the near future.
Thank you again for your continued support of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service and our students.
Dr. Matt Jacobs, Director
Bob Graham Center for Public Service