Amy Goebzer conquers toughest marathon swim in history

During a recent meeting of the University of Michigan's Board of Regents, President Santa Ono announced the establishment of an annual award honoring individuals who exemplify the university's values of leadership, service, achievement, and excellence. This initiative aims to recognize those who have significantly impacted the university's mission and ideals.

The meeting also celebrated the remarkable achievement of alumna Amy Goebzer, a pediatric nurse and grandmother, who completed a grueling 29.7-mile solo swim from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to the Farallon Islands. This swim, described by the LA Times as one of the toughest marathon swims in the world, took Goebzer approximately 17 hours to complete. Notably, she became the first person to swim this route from east to west, a direction considered more challenging due to colder waters. President Ono praised her accomplishment, encouraging others to aspire to their full potential.

In addition to these highlights, Regent Denise Illich commended Regent Sarah Hubbard for her exceptional leadership during her tenure as chair, particularly in co-chairing the presidential search and overseeing the renovation of the president's house. Fellow regents echoed her sentiments, acknowledging Hubbard's strategic and responsible approach during a challenging year.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude towards Donna Fry for her interim chancellorship, recognizing her positive impact on the campus community. The regents look forward to the new leadership under Regent Bernstein, who has transitioned from vice chair to chair.