Public Interest Design Emerging Leaders Initiative

Support Emerging Leaders in Community-Engaged Design

The Public Interest Design Emerging Leaders Initiative at the University of Detroit Mercy empowers the next generation of architects to make a difference through values-based, community-driven design. By supporting this initiative, you help School of Architecture and Community Development (SACD) students gain hands-on experience working with the Detroit Collaborative Design Center (DCDC) on real-world projects that prioritize community participation and equitable outcomes.

Through this program, students:

• Collaborate with professional designers on impactful projects for Detroit neighborhoods.
• Learn community-engaged design strategies that celebrate local voices, reflect cultural identities, and support equitable, resident-centered solutions.
• Develop leadership skills that shape them into empathetic, socially conscious professionals.

We’re aiming to raise $15,000 to fund a student designer's experience in this transformative program. Every contribution will directly support a student’s opportunity to work alongside public-interest design professionals, fostering the skills and knowledge to build a more inclusive and equitable future.

Join us in shaping tomorrow’s leaders in architecture and community design. Your support makes all the difference!

You can make a one time gift or choose to make a larger gift over time by choosing the recurring gift option.

Donations by check can be made out to University of Detroit Mercy with DCDC PID Initiative in the memo line and sent to:

University Advancement
University of Detroit Mercy
4001 W. McNichols
Detroit, MI 48221