Alumnus Jim Hays Helps Students See the Possibilities

Just as ophthalmologist Jim Hays (M.D. 1977) affects patients’ lives by helping them see better, becoming a physician changed his. “It transformed my entire life, everything I do. And having that degree from Michigan opened all kinds of doors — and still does.”

To express his gratitude to his alma mater, he endowed the James C. Hays, M.D., Scholarship in 1994 to make it possible for students with great financial need to get a Michigan medical education. Says Hays, “There probably has not been a single other professional thing I’ve done that’s been as rewarding.”

Jim Hays visits with Adam Possner on the steps of Hill Auditorium at commencement in June 2006. The James C. Hays, M.D., Scholarship helped support Possner, who graduated first in his class, through his four years of medical study. Photo: Lin Jones

Your scholarship gift can help make the Michigan difference. Every gift, strengthens the ability of the Medical School to attract outstanding students and to lighten their financial burden as they pursue careers of distinction and service in the Michigan tradition.
For more information about making a gift to support medical students at Michigan, please call B.J. Bess at (734) 998-7705 or e-mail bjbess@umich.edu.