For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Michigan received a record number of applications from prospective freshmen, and applications and paid deposits are up for underrepresented minority students.

The University of Michigan has received official notice that it has earned continuing accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Here’s a throwback to good old American automotive muscle. The U-M racing team set an all-time record for acceleration by a collegiate team, and placed second overall, at the SAE Collegiate Design Series. Includes video.

Beth Myerowitz graduated this spring after overhauling her life and career, at 59, to attend U-M. But that’s not the only unique part of her story. Right at her side at spring commencement: her son, Joshua Sánchez, who earned his own graduate degree.

In U-M’s new Social Venture Creation course, students who want to make the world a better place are learning hands-on how to use business savvy and market principles to solve society’s challenges.

Plus: DoGood movement grows: Student iPhone app acquired by national company.

The tax incentives that have made Michigan a movie-making hotbed are also transforming U-M. Film crews are shooting on campus, bolstering the local economy and giving U-M students a reason — and an opportunity — to remain, work and learn in Michigan.

President Barack Obama will deliver the spring 2010 commencement address at the University of Michigan, President Mary Sue Coleman announced today. The ceremony will be held on May 1 in Michigan Stadium. Obama will receive an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree, and he will be the fourth sitting president to visit U-M in Ann Arbor, following George H.W. Bush, Gerald R. Ford and Lyndon B. Johnson; former president Bill Clinton spoke at the 2007 commencement.

The great photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt came to Ann Arbor in 1950 for Life magazine. His goal: to capture the flawless precision and wild exuberance of the Michigan Marching Band. He succeeded.

Philip Hanlon, the Donald J. Lewis Professor of Mathematics and vice provost for academic and budgetary affairs at the University of Michigan, has been selected as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs by U-M President Mary Sue Coleman. He succeeds Provost Teresa Sullivan, who is stepping down to become the president of the University of Virginia.