For every 3L who signs up for the Challenge, John Nannes, ’73, makes an immediate contribution of $250 to that student’s choice of student organization(s). In exchange for this gift, the student commits to making a gift to the Law School Fund every year for the first four years following graduation.
Class of 2023 Results
It was another successful year for the Nannes 3L Challenge. Thanks to our generous students and alumni for another wonderful year!
Select 2022 Recipients
About the Challenge
For every 3L who signs up for the Challenge, John Nannes, ’73, makes an immediate contribution of $250 to that student’s choice of student organization(s). In exchange for this gift, the student commits to making a gift to the Law School Fund every year for the first four years following graduation. There is no required minimum amount for these contributions, and students are encouraged to be as generous as their circumstances permit.
The overarching objective of the Nannes 3L Challenge is to share with students the importance and impact of philanthropy on campus. Alumni give back generously so current and future students can have a great experience at Michigan Law.
The Challenge encourages students to think about paying it forward through their time and financial support as they graduate and become a member of our alumni community.
Most importantly, the Nannes 3L Challenge provides funding so students have opportunities to bond with their peers, engage with the community, and further their education outside of the classroom.
The 2023 Nannes 3L Challenge will take place from October 2 through October 13.
Outcomes
Students can support their student organizations and programs while they are still in school, and they help provide invaluable resources to Michigan Law in the future.
The Nannes 3L Challenge encourages students to give back to the Law School by educating them on the importance of alumni support.
FAQs for Current Students
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How does the Nannes 3L Challenge work? Where do I make my commitment?
Every fall, the Nannes 3L Challenge Committee hosts a table outside of Robert B. Aikens Commons. 3Ls then compete to see who can raise the most funding for the student organizations of their choice by first making a commitment to give to the Law School Fund for each of the first four years following graduation.
John Nannes, ’73, then gives $250 to each of the chosen student organizations for every commitment made by 3Ls in their name. Commitments can be made online, or by visiting the Nannes 3L Challenge table during the two-week sign-up period each fall. -
What student organizations are eligible? How do they use the funds?
There are many student organizations you can direct support towards. Student organizations use Challenge funding to bring in special speakers, host events, launch new programs, plan charity events, facilitate training sessions, and countless other activities.
The funding from John Nannes is a crucial part of many student organizations’ budgets; it allows students to plan activities in their extracurricular groups that they otherwise could not. -
Do I have to give a $250 gift after graduation?
No, the idea is to educate students on the importance of annual giving with an emphasis on the four-year giving commitment, not on the total dollar amount.
We encourage you to match John Nannes’ $250 gift over the four years, but this is not required. We only ask that you give an amount that is affordable and meaningful to you. -
When and how do I begin making gifts post-graduation?
A student pays nothing when they commit to the Nannes 3L Challenge, but they do agree to make a gift every year for the first four years after graduation.
The Office of Development of Alumni Relations will send you reminders and updates from current Nannes 3L Challenge participants. You will be able to make your gift online or complete the response form included in the direct mail reminder. -
Why is giving to the Law School Fund important?
The Law School currently receives less than four percent of its budget from the state (in 1953, the state provided 41 percent of the Law School’s budget).
Tuition revenue alone is not enough to cover the remaining expenses. Giving to the Law School Fund—Michigan Law’s annual, discretionary fund—means supporting the entire Law School mission, including the debt management program, summer fellowship funding, clinics, and need-based scholarships for current students.
FAQs for Alumni
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How can I fulfill my pledge?
- You can fulfill your commitment through the University’s online portal or by mailing a check made payable to the University of Michigan. For mailings, please indicate on the memo line that your gift should be directed to the Law School Fund.
Give by Mail
University of Michigan Law School
Attn: Gift Processing
4000 Jeffries Hall
701 S. State St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-3091