Anatomical Donations Program: Service of Gratitude
The annual Service of Gratitude held by the Anatomical Donations Program is a ceremony to honor donors and their families and thank them for the gift of knowledge. It is a time for family, friends, and the University of Michigan community to come together in remembrance of donors. There will be expressions of gratitude in addition to a non-denominational invocation.
For More Information
2026 Service of Gratitude
The 2026 Anatomical Donations Program Service of Gratitude will be held on May 5, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Power Center on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, MI. Parking will be provided in the adjacent lot.
The Service of Gratitude is a public event, and anyone is invited to attend.
Contact the Anatomical Donations Program at [email protected] with questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Doors will open beginning at 5:30 PM. We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes before the service to ensure that you are able to be seated in a timely manner.
Food will not be served, but we will have bottled water available.
Please dress comfortably. Most guests typically wear business casual attire, or clothes appropriate for a funeral or wake.
To allow for all donor families to be represented, please no more than 10 guests.
Masks are not required, but please wear what feels comfortable for you.
Tickets are not required, nor is it required that you RSVP.
A service of reflection and thanks for the generous gift that our donors and their families selflessly gave to allow the gift of knowledge.
The purpose of the Service of Gratitude is to honor our donors and their loved ones. There will be expressions of gratitude, thoughtfulness, and feelings. There will be a non denominational invocation.
Our service will be broadcast via livestream. Watch the livestream via YouTube
We welcome monetary donations to help advance the gift of knowledge. If you feel moved to give, please contribute to the program via the U-M Leaders & Best website to make a donation.
Invitation Request Form
Please submit the invitation request form for the Service of Gratitude, so we can send you a formal invitation. You do not need a formal invitation to attend, and please feel free to bring any friends and family.
University of Michigan Burial Sites
Washtenong Memorial Park
Washtenong Memorial Park, 1988-Present
3771 Whitmore Lake Rd
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: 734-665-6187
United Memorial Gardens
United Memorial Gardens, 1963-1987
4800 Curtis Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: 734-454-9448
Fairview Cemetery
Fairview Cemetery, 1915-1963
1401 Wright St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: 734-994-2768