Global News

What Portugal can teach about racism in the United States

March 11, 2020

A mural of Malcolm X is painted along a street in Cova da Moura, one of Portugal's lower income neighborhoods. I spent my spring break on a week-long study abroad trip in Portugal, a component of WMU’s Global Leadership Program. The trip was designed to expose students to a variety of international issues viewed through the lens of a different society. To me, the most interesting topic was how racial differences are experienced in Portugal.

Portugal sparked the transatlantic slave trade when they began trading and kidnapping Africans in the 15th century. By the early 16th century, 10% of residents in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, were African. In the late 17th century, the slave trade was banned in Portugal. Read More.

 

Grad who earned $200K in scholarships starts business to help others

Justin Black and Alexis Lenderman officially launched The Scholarship Expert in December 2019 with the hope of helping all high school students in the U.S. find scholarships for college.February 13, 2020

Flint native Alexis Lenderman earned more than $200,000 in scholarships as an undergraduate at Western Michigan University.

Growing up in foster care, Lenderman knew she wanted to go to college but had no idea how she was going to pay for it. After a lot of research and applications, she received 10 scholarships her freshman year, with a $10,000 refund. Read More.

 

 

finding a home away from home: dr. Famiano's evergreen memories in japan

Dr. Famiano enjoying the beautiful weather under the cherry blossom treeFebruary 3, 2020

Dr. Michael A. Famiano, a professor of physics at Western Michigan University, studies stellar nucleosynthesis. His primary research interest is stellar plasma, the extremely hot and dense interiors of stars. 

Dr. Famiano successfully collaborated with Prof. Toshitaka Kajino from National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) to organize and coordinate some parts of their research, whereby the former got an opportunity to study this rapidly evolving field as a visiting Fulbright scholar at NAOJ. Dr. Famiano says, “I have been working in Japan periodically since attending graduate school many years ago, and I have worked at National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) with Toshitaka Kajino, a very well-known physicist and also a good friend of mine.” Read More.

 

 GRAD's Journey to success from Malaysia to Wmu to ford

Sudesh WoodigaJanuary 24, 2020

Sudesh Woodiga was a high school student in his native Subang Jaya, Malaysia, when he first heard about Kalamazoo and Western Michigan University’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. After reading about WMU’s Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program, he knew he’d found where he wanted to get his higher education. Woodiga was drawn to the college by the opportunity to get hands-on experience, the ability to conduct research and development as an undergraduate, and the University’s wind tunnel facility. Read More.

 

Life-changing business experiences abroad

CATHERINE LEMUSJanuary 24, 2020

Two Haworth College of Business students were selected for highly competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships, worth $2,000 each, to study overseas during the fall 2019 semester.

Catherine Lemus, a marketing major with a minor in biological sciences, spent the fall semester studying at the BI Norwegian Business School. Nijeria Peterson, a business law major with a minor in global business, studied in South Africa at the University of Cape Town. Read more.

 
 
 
 
 

From heartbreak to hope

January 10, 2020

Samath Him Sprung’s life has taken him around the world and back several times. The WMU alumnus has impacted thousands of lives with the school in Cambodia he helped found. But his accomplishments did not come easily.
 
A journey born from heartbreak and hope, Sprung grew up in a tumultuous time in Cambodia, when the Khmer Rouge ignited a bloody civil war. Facing an uncertain future, he saw his fortune change in 1975 when he stepped into a Buddhist temple with his father. Read more.
 
 

Learning and Leading: Global Leaders use their skills to help refugees

WMU student works in a community garden.January 9, 2020

Surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea, the Greek island of Lesvos is idyllic. But growing among the olive groves and fishing villages is Moria Refugee Camp, an encampment where some 15,000 people fleeing from war, terrorism and poverty in places like Syria and Afghanistan have sought refuge.
 
"Refugees risk their lives sailing on a boat there, trying to get to Greece so they can claim asylum," says Riley Richardson, who is majoring in global international studies and environmental sustainability. "It still shakes me to my core thinking about what they've gone through and how they are just trying to have a better life." Read more.
 
 
 
 

Bridging Barriers: A firsthand look at immigration issues

A student speaks with a child on the other side of the border fence.January 9, 2020

Feet away and worlds apart, a small group of WMU students speaks to two young brothers through the bars of a tall, rust-covered fence separating El Paso, Texas, from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

“We were just chatting about school, what they do for fun,” says Dakota McCracken, an economics major from Kalamazoo. “One of the little boys asked me, ‘Are there bad guys over there?’ I said, ‘Yes, we do have some bad guys,’ and he said, ‘Oh, we have a lot of bad guys over here.’ Then he just kept playing and wrestling with his brother.” Read more.

 

 MISSIONARY MAGIC- TOMMY PAGAWAK'S PATH FROM NEW GUINEA TO WMU

December 19, 2019

In every location on the planet, word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising and the most effective way to spread a message.

On the other side of the world, that's how Tommy Pagawak ended up at the WMU College of Aviation. His home nation is Indonesia, which consists of a cluster of large islands off the mainland of Southeast Asia that touch both the Indian and Pacific oceans. Names such as Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Bali and Timor would be familiar to most Americans. Read more.

 

Finding Common Ground

Dr. Rudolf SiebertDecember 18, 2019

In our politically polarized reality, civil conversations may seem like a utopian fantasy. Dr. Rudolf Siebert, professor emeritus of comparative religion, is looking for the light at the end of the tunnel.

"Our political discourse has really declined in the world. What we want to do is see it come to a level where people can quietly and rationally talk about these things." Read more.
 

RSO aims to unite Broncos

December 18, 2019

Have you ever wanted to go to an event but had no one to ride along with?  Social Element is here to help. The registered student organization is on a mission to unite the Western Michigan University Campus. Created by Jenessa Lillard in summer 2018, the group aims to generate transparency and accountability while creating caring relationships and inseparable bonds among Broncos.
 
“After going with my cousin to Fall Welcome last year, I could recognize the decline in participation, and even at other events I went to afterward,” says Lillard, Social Element president. “This made me want to make sure that we promote everything happening on campus, while also helping people be comfortable enough to participate.” Read more.
 
 
 
 

WMU alumna's personal experience will drive national STRATEGY to combat human trafficking

December 4, 2019

WASHINGTON, D.C.—A Western Michigan University alumna is on the frontlines of combatting human trafficking nationwide. President Donald Trump appointed Bella Hounakey to the United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.

"It's an honor to serve not just our country, but to also be part of a bigger system that is working on behalf of vulnerable populations," says Hounakey, a Seita Scholar who earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from WMU.

An advocate for refugee and foster children at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in Washington, Hounakey knows firsthand the horrors of trafficking. She was just 9 years old when her dreams of a better life in the United States were shattered by a trusted relative. Read more.

 

 

Bringing Japanese Religion and Culture to Career

Students in JapanOctober 13, 2019

Touring shrines and temples, sitting in the seat of emperors, meeting leaders of lay Buddhist movements, experiencing waterfall purification, creating manga-style art. Welcome to the Japanese religion and culture study abroad seminar offered every other year by Dr. Stephen Covell, Western Michigan University’s chair of the Department of Comparative Religion and professor of Japanese religions.

“It just opens one’s eyes to how big and different the world is but also how similar we can be even though our worlds seem so far apart,” says Emily Warren, who took the trip in summer 2016 while an undergraduate student in anthropology and comparative religion. “ Being on the trip I learned something new probably every hour, but it didn’t feel like learning – it was simply engagement and adaption to new surroundings.” Read more.
 
 

WMU's Diversity, Inclusion Efforts Again Receive National Accolade

Decorative image "Insight Into Diversity, Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award 2019"September 18, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Diversity and inclusion efforts underway at Western Michigan University helped it earn recognition for the seventh year in a row from a national publication that focuses on diversity in higher education.

WMU was one of 93 institutions from around the nation named an annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity—HEED—honoree by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. WMU has been honored by the publication each year since 2013.

"We are honored that Western Michigan University has been named a Higher Education Excellence in Diversity award winner for the seventh year in a row," said WMU President Edward Montgomery. "We recognize that diversity is our strength and this distinction is a testament to our commitment to building broader diversity within our student body and across our faculty ranks. While we graciously accept this accolade from INSIGHT into Diversity, we know that we have more work to do and we will continue to make strides in enhancing inclusivity and engagement across our campus." Read More

 

WMU Alumni Create Educational Opportunities for Kalamazoo Refugees

Kalamazoo Refugee Resource Collaborative workers and volunteers stand togetherSeptember 17, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Leaning back in their chairs, six teenagers sit in a circle listening to a story. A volunteer teacher gestures to the book, pointing at the pictures and teaching them words like “octopus.” Each student shows different levels of enthusiasm, but all of them share a need to better understand English as refugees starting a new life in the United States. 

This year, the Kalamazoo Refugee Resource Collaborative—KRRC—debuted a pilot program for middle- and high school-aged refugees to help them gain the tools they need to be successful in the American school system. Read more.

 

 

WMU Welcomes New Director of International Admissions

September 9, 2019

Decorative: photo of Dr. MK MohananaKALAMAZOO, Mich.—A new director of international admissions and services has joined Western Michigan University's Haenicke Institute for Global Education.

Dr. M.K. Mohanan brings to WMU deep expertise in international admissions and the enrollment management lifecycle from his work at Cleveland State University, Rutgers University, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Wayne State University.

Mohanan, who starts Monday, Sept. 9, will be leading WMU’s comprehensive international enrollment and retention plan at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Read more

 

 

Haenicke Institute Announces Partner University of the Year Award

Decorative: WMU Haenicke Institute logoSeptember 5, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Western Michigan University's Haenicke Institute for Global Education is proud to announce the newly created “International Partner University of the Year” award which recognizes the outstanding work of a University-approved international partner institution that contributed significantly to WMU’s global engagement by providing substantial and/or ground-breaking opportunities for learning, research, study abroad and/or other forms of engagement with WMU’s students, faculty, staff and/or administrators. Nominations for the 2018-2019 academic year are due by September 30. Read more.

 

WMU study abroad photo contest

August 8, 2019Sunset by the sea in Cape Town, South Africa

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Western Michigan University students who study outside of the United States in any of the following sessions or semesters are eligible to enter up to six photos—one per category— and one video from their study abroad experience during Summer II 2018, Fall 2018, Spring 2019, Summer I 2019 and Summer II 2019 semesters.

Three finalists from each category will be chosen by a selection committee; winners will be decided by the WMU campus community during the week of the 2019 WMU Study Abroad Fair. Prizes include a canvas print of the student photo. The contest entry deadline is August 25, 2019. Read more.

 

Living a multi-dimensional life

August 8, 2019A female WMU student with a group of youth in an office

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— During her time at WMU, King has specialized in neurobiology and business management. “Science and business are distinct lenses through which to view the world,” she says. “Much like 3D glasses require both red and blue lenses to let the user perceive depth, interdisciplinary study deepens our ability to perceive complexity. We are not living in a 2D world. I urge my fellow students to reflect on their vision for the future, their passions and their strengths.”

King’s reflection on her strengths led to her work with refugees resettling in Kalamazoo, where she met a partner in this work, student Sydney Fernandez. They recently spent several months in Jordan developing the framework for a volunteer program that promotes synergistic learning between international language students at the Qasid Arabic Institute and struggling youth. Read more.

 

forty years of teaching, research and global business

August 8, 2019Dr. Zahir Quraeshi teaches in a classroom

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— “Enabling students to become productive, caring citizens of the world”—that is how Zahir “Zack” Quraeshi, professor of marketing and G.W. Haworth chair of international business, describes the focus of his work for the past 40 years.

His career at WMU began in 1978, when his research partner, Dr. Mushtaq Luqmani, encouraged him to apply to the University. At the same time, the college’s accrediting organization, AACSB, was emphasizing the importance of internationalizing the curriculum in order for students to better understand the global business environment. Read more.

 

Sunseeker team turns in impressive fifth place showing at FORMULA sun grand prix

August 7, 2019WMU sunseeker team stand by their solar car

KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan University’s Sunseeker team celebrated its 30th anniversary with an impressive performance at the Formula Sun Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. The team started the competition by earning 10 green stickers as the third team to complete the scruitineering process and finishing in fifth place overall.

Dr. Mitchel J. Keil, a Sunseeker team faculty advisor, says the students put their all into the race. “The team proved one thing for certain: This team has heart,” Keil says. Read more.

 

Four WMU students receive gilman scholarship for fall 2019

August 7, 2019Gilman scholarship logo

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Four Western Michigan University students receive the highly competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to study overseas during the Fall 2019 semester or Academic Year 2019-2020.

Nijeria PetersonCatherine LemusAngel Schramm and Zoe Jackson are selected for the Fall 2019 scholarships. Anthony Gasca has also been named as an alternate recipient. Read more.

 

new climate and energy advisor develops vision for cleaner, greener michigan

August 6, 2019Dr. Brandy Brown stands by WMU's educational solar array.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Glaciers melting. Temperatures hitting record highs. Wildfires ravaging thousands of acres. The headlines related to climate change are alarming. Scientists are urging changes in behavior and policy to slow the warming trend, and many governments and businesses are enlisting help to answer the call.

Dr. Brandy Brown, who earned a doctoral degree from Western Michigan University, was tapped to lead the charge in Michigan. Tasked with coordinating the state's response to climate change, Brown was named climate and energy advisor in June. Liesl Clark, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, calls her a perfect fit for the role. Read more.

 

International Friendship program

July 29, 2019Brown & Gold flag of WMU is held by a WMU student in Parade of Flags.

The Haenicke Institute for Global Education is excited to announce the 2019 launch of it's International Friendship Program (IFP): an initiative that connects international students with the Kalamazoo community. The IFP is designed to assist international students in transitioning and learning U.S. American culture as well as engaging the local community with the world.

The IFP pairs WMU international friends (international students and scholars) with community friends (local community members) to interact once per month from September through April. The International Friendship Program (IFP) is NOT a live-in or homestay program. Read more.

 

Landscapers Practicing natural selection management technique

July 26, 2019Two student employees on the Sangren Hall hillside during this year's Arbor day

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Instead of mowing a lawn on steep slopes, landscape services staffers at Western Michigan University are using a proven landscape management technique—ecological restoration, which includes planting hundreds of trees.

In part, the practice calls for planting a variety of unbranched tree seedlings, or "whips," on problematic inclines rather than trying to maintain lawns there. Read more.

 

Football Broncos tackle tree clearing for Habitat for Humanity

July 25, 2019A WMU football player clearing the forest trees.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Western Michigan University football team is used to long, grueling summer training. But it's not often the student-athletes get a chance to show off their ax-swinging chops or trade in a blocking sled for a line of trees to take down.

"From the word go, these guys took the ball and ran with it," says Tim Smolenski, director of community relations and volunteer services for Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity, who reached out to the Broncos for some help clearing a property in Kalamazoo's Eastside neighborhood. Read more.

 

Working with youth has its own rewards, challenges

July 12, 2019Six teenager wear orange shirts and hold each other hands.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Support and education for professionals who work with young people in programs outside of the classroom are growing, and Western Michigan University has responded by expanding its training and internships in this area.

The College of Education and Human Development added two degrees in 2019 to build its academic offerings, as well as community-based professional opportunities, helping its students become leaders in youth and community development. Read more.

 

students pursue a better roadmap of mars

July 12, 2019Three male WMU students holding a laptop in their laboratory.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The exploration of Mars and potential for humans to travel and live there has sparked research at Western Michigan University to better map the terrain of the planet.

Four senior aerospace engineering students spent the school year developing designs for a flying unmanned aerial vehicle to map the surface in detail and transmit that information to researchers in a timely manner. Maxwell Allen of Harrison Township, Stephen DeCarlo of Hudsonville, Joseph DiGivanno of Lansing and Nathan Partee of Breckenridge featured their results along with 95 other senior capstone projects showcased at the University's Senior Engineering Design Conference held this past spring. Read more.

 

Students study effectiveness of solar panel placement

July 12, 2019A WMU male student operates a scaled-down solar panel on WMU campus.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—What are the effects of shade on solar panels and their best position to optimize energy output? Western Michigan University engineering students studied the placement of this technology in a project for Consumers Energy to help educate young people about the benefits, and limitations, of solar energy.

For their senior engineering design project, An Nguyen of Battle Creek, Blake Ryan of Jackson and Steven Spannagel of St. Charles built an interactive scaled-down solar generation garden to demonstrate the performance effects of modifications to its panel layout. Read more.

 

MEntors, role models key to success for men of color in college

July 10, 2019A group photo of students of color at WMU.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Levi Soto started his education at Western Michigan University studying engineering, a field that fit in with his experience helping his father with their family construction business.

He was born in the United States, but his English was limited; and he would stutter with nervousness because he was more familiar with Spanish that was spoken in his home. His language and culture kept him tied to a small circle of Latino friends, and he rarely had Latino instructors to be mentors or role models as he attended college. Read more.

 

Building a Cultural bridge, engineering students teach refugees about science, math

July 9, 2019A student at the Refugee Education Center raises his hand during a class by WMU engineering students.

KENTWOOD, Mich.—Kids bursting with energy from a long school day dart back and forth across a room. They gather in groups, conversing in various languages. All of these children are refugees, coming from different countries with their families--fleeing obstacles like poverty and violence in search of a better life.

Today, they're finding a common language in science.

Western Michigan University's chapter of Engineers without Borders designed a project for children at the Refugee Education Center in Kentwood, which provides kids in kindergarten through 12th grades after-school tutoring, summer literacy programs, and socio-emotional and career exploration opportunities. Read more.

 

Work with refugee family helps business student expand global perspective

July 8, 2019Dylan Coleman smiley portrait

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Businesses are increasingly emphasizing social responsibility, in many cases giving employees paid time off to volunteer. A required upper level business class at Western Michigan University aims to prepare students to be leaders in the field.

Dylan Coleman has a broader perspective on the responsibility to give back. As a member of WMU's Global Leaders program, he's committed to learning about international issues and how his actions affect both local and global communities. Read more.

 

camp for blind and visually impaired athletes breaks down barriers

July 3, 2019

A female athlete in an indoor field crouches to play goalball.KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A rubber ball thuds on the ground, followed by a metallic clanging that fills a silent gym. Young athletes crane their heads to follow the noise, before one scoops up the ball and hurls it across the court at the opposing team.

In a synchronized sprawl, three athletes dive toward the jingling noise as they try to defend their net, which stretches the width of the court. Teammates on the sideline wait in anticipation to hear if the ball slipped past their outstretched fingertips. Read more.

 

Services, programs at WMU highlighted during LBGT Pride Month

June 21, 2019A group of four students talks at Kalamazoo Pride.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In West Michigan and across the country, members and allies of the lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender communities recognize June as Pride Month.

"Pride, to me, is the what it means to be able to live in a world that actively tries to keep you from being who you are and simultaneously be who you were always meant to be," says Western Michigan University student Chris Mattix.

From Fall Fab Fest to the OUTspoken student group and the Office of LBGT Student Services, WMU offers a number of resources for support, education and advocacy around issues of gender identity/expression and sexual orientation. Read more.

 

beauregard to help efforts to boost women in sports

June 18, 2019 A smiling portrait of kathy beauregard in navy blue suite.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Kathy Beauregard, Western Michigan University's director of intercollegiate athletics, will serve on a newly formed state task force designed to bring together local and national leaders to develop strategies that support and promote opportunities in Michigan for girls and women in sports.

Beauregard joins 13 other local and national leaders on the Task Force on Women in Sports formed by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and charged with examining "systematic problems" in equality in sports and developing recommendations to the governor on legislation, policies, investments and programs. Read more.

 

Annual bronco bash event set

June 11, 2019A view of campus during Bronco Bash.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The early registration deadline for booth space at this year’s Bronco Bash at Western Michigan University is Wednesday, July 31. Applications submitted after that date will be assessed a $25 late fee and processed pending available booth space. The deadline for late application is 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19

The 39th annual event will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, on the Sangren Pedestrian Mall. Read more.

 

Bronco-turned-NFL star Sam Beal tackles Alzheimer's awareness in national campaign

June 5, 2019Sam Beal sits on a white stool while taking part in a photo shoot for the Alzheimer's Association's #ENDALZ campaign.

NEW YORK—A former Western Michigan University football standout is putting his success to good use.

Sam Beal, now a cornerback for the New York Giants, is teaming up with the Alzheimer's Association in its effort to end Alzheimer's disease.

"If I can lend my image and open the eyes of my fan base to what the Alzheimer's Association is doing, it's great to be part of that," Beal says. "I would love to be that voice and be out there showing that I’m supporting beating this disease." Read more.

 

wmu part of $2.3 million program to boost diversity in economics

June 5, 2019A diverse group of students and faculty in formal summer clothes smiling at the camera.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.--Economists base much of their work on the belief that equal opportunity is vital to how society functions. Yet, the economics profession has faced a persistent lack of women and members of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Addressing this gap is a priority for the Western Michigan University Department of Economics. Since 2016, WMU has partnered with Michigan State University to offer an innovative program designed to increase diversity in economics doctoral degrees and professions. Read more.

 

WMU only Michigan university among 32 finalists in NSF Idea Machine competition

 May 31, 2019NSF 2026 Idea Machine poster with a blue background depicts  seven iconic people sitting around a table.

KALAMAZOO, Mich. —The next big idea to shape the future of science, technology, engineering and math research in the United States could be hatched at Western Michigan University.

Three submissions from WMU faculty and administrators were selected by the National Science Foundation as contenders for the grand prize in the NSF 2026 Idea Machine Competition. The entries were among 32 selected from a pool of more than 800 entries from across the country. WMU is the only Michigan institution included in the field of finalists, which includes entries from researchers at universities such as Harvard, Columbia and Duke. Read more.

 

Two WMU leaders recognized as 'notable women in STEM'

May 29, 2019portraits of Dr. Terri Goss Kinzy and Dr. Carla Koretsky

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. Terri Goss Kinzy and Dr. Carla Koretsky, both scientists and administrators at Western Michigan University, have been recognized as 2019 Notable Women in STEM by Crain's Detroit Business. The publication cites their leadership in the workplace and community and lauds their accomplishments in research, teaching and administration.

Kinzy, vice president for research and a professor of biological sciences at WMU, is internationally known for her work in the areas of gene expression and protein synthesis. She says her love of science started early, and she's a strong advocate of increasing diversity in the field.

Koretsky is the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, WMU’s largest and most diverse college. She has served as a faculty member in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences and the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability since arriving at WMU in 2000. Read more.

 

WMU awards recognize diversity and inclusion efforts

May 29, 2019A portrait of Dr. Kirsty Eisenhart.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.-- Western Michigan University will recognize campus efforts toward promoting diversity and inclusion by honoring three recipients of Excellence in Diversity Awards during a ceremony at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, in the Multicultural Center in the Adrian Trimpe Building.

Dr. Kirsty Eisenhart, director of developmental math in the Department of Mathematics; the Graduate College, and the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion of the College of Health and Human Services will receive this distinguished Universitywide honor for exemplifying outstanding efforts in diversity and inclusion. Read more.

 

Communitywide sustainability resource offerings keep evolving

May 28, 2019three female students sit in a garden and get tomato plants in the ground.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Seeds planted by Western Michigan University students almost a decade ago and nurtured by their peers ever since are bearing fruit for today's members of the campus and Kalamazoo communities.

Thanks primarily to a self-imposed sustainability fee adopted in 2010, students have built a strong and growing infrastructure that makes an evolving array of sustainability resources available to not only themselves, but often to members of the on- and off-campus communities, as well.The student-led campaign to establish the fee resulted in WMU becoming Michigan's first higher education institution to adopt a "green fee" to support campus sustainability. The move was instrumental in creating the Office for Sustainability in 2011 and continues to solidify the University as a national sustainability innovator and leader.  Read more.

 

Four WMU STudents RECEIVE Gilman SCHOLARSHIP

May 23, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A highly competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship has been awarded to four Western Michigan University students to study abroad during the summer 2019 semester.

Ten WMU students applied for the summer 2019 application round and four were selected. At a selection success rate of 40 percent, Gilman awards to WMU students are well above the national average acceptance rate of 29 percent. Two WMU students were also selected as alternates. Read more.

 

Helmet sensor technology business created by wmu team honored for innovation

May 16, 2019Dr. Masood Atashbar and Dr. Binu Baby Narakathu in suits, display therir award for being a 2019 smartzone best small business.

PORTAGE, Mich.—A company started by a Western Michigan University professor and his students is receiving statewide recognition. SafeSense Technologies LLC was one of just 12 companies named a 2019 SmartZone Best Small Business Honoree at the annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards in East Lansing.

"The award demonstrates that early stage emerging companies can succeed with the help of the Michigan Small Business Development Center tech team and the larger ecosystem as a whole," says Dr. Binu Baby Narakathu, a WMU alumnus and co-founder and president of SafeSense Technologies LLC. Read more.

 

Pilot training program recognized for excellence

May 15, 2019Two male pilot from the front view running a small airplane from.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A national aviation association has honored Western Michigan University's College of Aviation for excellence in pilot training. The National Air Transportation Association's 2018-19 Industry Excellence Awards recognized WMU's aviation programs for outstanding contributions in safety, professionalism, leadership and excellence in the field. This is the first year WMU has been chosen for the award and the first time a four-year institution has been selected since the its inception in 1987. Read more.

 

Sales and business marketing once again earns national top program accolades

May 15, 2019Dr. Steve Newell the associate dean of operations and graduate programs for the business colleges standing in front of WMU leadership lab.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's sales and business marketing program, housed within the Haworth College of Business, has once again been named a top national program by the Sales Education Foundation. For the 13th consecutive year, WMU's program was recognized for preparing students for careers in professional selling as well as elevating the sales profession. Home to 320 majors and nearly 1,700 alumni, WMU's program is one of the largest and most renowned in the country. Read more.

 

center lauded for supporting region's small business community

May 14, 2019Tamara Davis the director of Southwest Michigan Small Business Development Center holding her award.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Southwest Michigan Small Business Development Center at Western Michigan University, located within the Haworth College of Business, was selected to receive the U.S. Small Business Administration's Michigan Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Award. The prestigious award recognizes excellence in providing value to small businesses and advancing program delivery and management, and it was presented in front of a crowd of more than 700 guests at the 15th Annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards Dinner on May 8 in East Lansing. Read more.

 

The College of arts and sciences announces 2018-19 faculty and staff achievement awards

May 10, 2019Dr. Montgomery congratulating college of arts and sciences winners.

The College of Arts and Sciences is pleased to announce the 2018-19 Achievement Award winners. This year the college recognized 12 individuals for their exemplary contributions to WMU students, the college and Western Michigan University as a whole. Each of these individuals were honored at a special awards ceremony in late March. These awards recognize their great work and outstanding contributions over the past year. Dr. Vincent Desroches from the department of World Languages and Literatures won this year's global engagement award. Another faculty achievement award in the category of diversity and inclusion is dedicated to Dr. Alisa Perkins, professor of Comparative Religion. See the full list of awards offered by the College of Arts and Sciences. Read more.

 

Submission open for Presentations in Asian Forum 2019

May 1, 2019A poster of East Asian Forum including multiple photos of eastern Asia lifestyle and culture

Submission for presentations in Asian Forum 2019: East Asia/ South Asia at Western Michigan University is now open.

The purpose of the conference is to bring together academicians, artists, scholars and international education professionals from Asia and the West to dialogue and explore various aspects and issues related to Asia and the global community through a multidisciplinary and multi-faceted conference. All papers and panel proposals encompassing any aspects on Asia’s past, present and future, including arts, history, business, economics, culture, humanities, literature, politics, educational exchange and cooperation, and language pedagogy, etc. are invited for submission. Submission of proposals for full panels, roundtable discussion, or workshops with a specific theme and list of presenters are also encouraged. Please submit the materials by August 12, 2019. Read more.

 

World's medievalists coming to Kalamazoo for annual congress

April 24, 2019A man in a medieval exhibition showing a woman an elephant tusk.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Medieval scholars from around the world will return to Kalamazoo this month for the 54th celebration of the Western Michigan University International Congress on Medieval Studies.

The event, which has become a rite of spring in the Kalamazoo community, runs from Thursday, May 9, through Sunday, May 12. It will attract some 2,750 scholars from around the world. Among the attractions this year are sessions on topics ranging from medieval herbal medicine and military technology to Norse mythology.

Attendees will include professional scholars, most with university appointments; students; independent scholars; librarians; museum curators; and enthusiasts. Hundreds will live in campus residence halls, and hundreds more will fill area hotels. Read more.

 

WMU Study abroad specialist Wins 2019 terra dotta innovation award

April 16, 2019Sarah Reid smilely selfie, while holding her statue of appreciation recieved from Terra Dotta Innovation Award

Western Michigan University is pleased to announce that study abroad specialist Sarah Reid has won the 2019 Terra Dotta Innovation Award.  She received this award on April 16th in front of conference attendees at Terra Dotta's annual conference, this year held in Atalanta. While awards come and go, this one is truly a big deal.

Sarah won the award because of her innovative use of Terra Dotta (Broncos Abroad) at Western to: 1) automate and track extensive processes and workflows to facilitate more standardized, fluid and rapid updates and approvals with other units in HIGE such as finance, IT and marketing, and 2) to foster streamlined communication with faculty regarding existing and new program information. 

Please know that Jon Collier's collaboration was instrumental in helping Sarah set up the workflow system. They meet every Thursday for an hour to discuss all issues related to Terra Dotta (Broncos Abroad) and the system flows smoothly because of Jon's considerable expertise and assistance.

Sarah recently published an article on eCampus News about how WMU automated and expanded the study abroad program for students. You can read the article here.

 

Registration open for summer Chinese culture classes

April 16, 2019four female students from diverse ethnicity are sitting in a classroom and talking together.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Registrations are due Wednesday, May 1, for summer Chinese culture courses offered by the Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University.

The five-week, low-cost courses are taught in English and begin the week of Monday, May 6. A half-price tuition discount is offered to WMU students and those age 55 and older. All ages are welcome to enroll. WMU employees only pay the $25 registration fee plus material fee (if applicable), no other tuition.

Full refunds will be given for classes dropped before they meet the second time and a 50% discount will be given for classes dropped before they meet the fourth time. No refunds will be available after that. Read more

 

Countywide Earth Day celebration set for April 20

April 15, 2019The designed symbol of this year's Earth day is 101,000 Acts of Green.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For the third straight year, Kalamazoo County will celebrate Earth Day in downtown Kalamazoo.

The 2019 Kalamazoo Earth Day Festival will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at Bronson Park. This year's theme is "101,000 Acts of Green." Dr. Allen Webb, Western Michigan University professor of English and chair of the Kalamazoo Earth Day Committee says the theme was inspired by the number of households in the county—101,000.

"We want to encourage and celebrate the very many things that so many people are doing, and could be doing to protect our environment," Webb says. "We're collecting 'acts of green,' and we'll be counting them from now until next year's Earth Day, which, by the way, will be Earth Day's 50th anniversary." Read more.

 

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute appoints new director

April 8, 2019A portrait of Dr. Toni Woodfork-Barnes smiling at the camera.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western Michigan University has named a new director to lead the institute, which is a University-based, community volunteer program designed for learners age 50 and above.

Dr. Toni Woolfork-Barnes will transition to her new role with OLLI at WMU on Wednesday, May 1. Woolfork-Barnes brings more than 30 years of experience in leading various student-focused programs at WMU into her new role with OLLI at WMU, most recently serving as the director of the Office of Student Transitions at WMU. Read more.

 

How we automated and expanded our study abroad program

April 5, 2019Three WMU female students sitting on the edge of a road and laughing at the camera.

Managing an ever-increasing number of faculty-led study abroad programs requires a well-coordinated and established strategy to ensure that the process is timely, accurate, and efficient. From coordinating each program and facilitating the student application and onboarding process to managing and tracking travel itineraries and handling associated administrative procedures, there is a long list of action items.

At Western Michigan University, we offer more than 40 faculty-led study abroad programs and send more than 600 students abroad to over 30 countries each year. As our programs have grown tremendously over the past few years—both in the amount of program options and volume of student participation—we were outgrowing our simpler procedures and needed a way to efficiently standardize the full study-abroad lifecycle to meet increasing demands while facing decreases in funding. Read more.

 

Applications for U.S. Student Fulbright Scholarships are open

April 8, 2019A back portrait of a female student with Bronco T-shirt who is standing on a cliff facing the ocean.

Do you know where you are going after you graduate? Have you considered going abroad? Did you know that Fulbright offers opportunities to make this dream a reality? Applications for U.S. Student Fulbright Scholarships are now open. If you want to learn more about Fulbright and how to apply, now is your chance. 

Come and meet the WMU Fulbright Program Advisor and learn more about researching, teaching English or pursuing a master's degree abroad during this month.

Drop in hours on Monday, April 15, and April 22 in the Lee Honors College conference room from 10am-12 pm. 

 Stop by and find out where Fulbright can take you. Read more.

 

Annual county event to explore unconscious, implicit bias

March 28, 2019A portrait of Darnell Z. Blackburn.

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Kalamazoo County will take an in-depth look at bias when it holds its annual diversity program Wednesday, April 10, in Miller Auditorium on the campus of Western Michigan University.

For the county's 21st annual Respecting Differences program, Darnell Z. Blackburn will present "Understanding Unconscious and Implicit Bias." Blackburn, a former police officer, is CEO of Protecting Resources through Awareness Training LLC, a training and consulting service in Clinton Township. Read more.

 

Comstock to launch preschool Chinese immersion

March 26, 2019Preschool children sitting in a circle while their teacher is showing them pictures.

COMSTOCK TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — Come next fall, the English spoken by 3- and 4-year-olds, many who have barely learned their ABCs, will mix with the sounds of Mandarin in one Kalamazoo-area preschool room.

Comstock Public Schools is launching a first-of-its-kind Chinese immersion school for preschoolers.

"There's a lot of studies that show that being bilingual or multilingual has tremendous cognitive benefits. We feel the sooner we can offer that to our constituents, the better," Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Thoenes said of the early start. Read more.

 

Farmworker Awareness week to celebrate migrant community

a poster of the farmworker awareness week eventsMarch 25, 2019

Throughout the last week of March, the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) will be hosting the first ever Farmworker Awareness Week. Partnering up with several on-campus organizations and the Kalamazoo community, this week will be full of events that will spread awareness of the migrant and farm working community that make up Western’s  campus and community population.

“The purpose is that we really want to get that exposure to our campus that there are students who come from farm working backgrounds. Michigan is very high in agriculture and we want to make that visibility on campus,” Jose Alexis Mejia, CAMP Coordinator of Outreach and Recruitment said. In order to recognize the efforts of those students and their families coming from a migrant and farm working background, awareness will be brought onto campus that will educate and expose the WMU Bronco family and the Kalamazoo community about the farm working and migrant culture, Mejia said. Read more

 

Spring convocation highlights sustainability, education research

A portrait of Dr. Tiffany Schriever smiling to the camera.March 21, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The shoreline of West Michigan is known for its beauty, but the diverse species that call the wetlands between dunes home have been relatively unknown. Until now.

Dr. Tiffany Schriever, an assistant professor of biological sciences as well as environment and sustainability at Western Michigan University, is conducting an in-depth study of rare interdunal wetlands along Lake Michigan. With the help of a Michigan Sea Grant, Schriever and her team are documenting the unique creatures that call the area home and figuring out how they are connected to each other.

Schriever says learning about and keeping these wetlands intact isn't just important for the environment; Michigan's economy depends on it. Read more.

 

WMu community joins in global climate strike

A climate change support flyer on WMU campus.March 20, 2019

A climate change rally took place on campus this week as a part of a global climate strike.

The rally on Friday, March 15 at Western Michigan University was one of many student strikes occurring around the world led by Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old climate change activist from Sweden. “It is valuable for us… to learn a lifestyle for after college,” said Shannon Ervin, a senior freshwater science and sustainability student, and one of the organizers of the event. Read more.

 

WMU students anxious to share their cultures at International Festival

A female Indian student dancing in traditional clothes.March 18, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Building an understanding of different cultures can be entertaining as well as informative, and that's why organizers say no one should miss Western Michigan University's 30th annual International Festival.

This year's festival will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 24, on the second floor of the Bernhard Center. See more.

 

Talk will explore ways ecological principles improve societies

Pandora Thomas smiley portrait.March 13, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—An upcoming speaker at Western Michigan University will share her insights about how broadly applying ecological principles can lead to better-designed societies.

Permaculturalist Pandora Thomas will present her views at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21, in Room 1910 Sangren Hall. To be guaranteed a seat, reserve a free ticket online. Free parking will be available in Lot 41 behind Sangren Hall. In her talk, titled "Sankofa & Social Permaculture," Thomas will tie ecological principles associated with sustainable agriculture, which more recently has been expanded to encompass the notion of permanent culture, to ways of improving how humans treat one another, build their communities and protect the environment. See more.

 

Student helps theater launch program for visually impaired patrons

WMU student Abby Tongue sitting in the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre.March 1, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Imagine going to a theater performance but not being able to see why people are laughing or gasping during the show. With the help of a Western Michigan University graduate student, a new program at the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre aims to fill in those gaps in experience for people who are visually impaired.

Abby Tongue, who is pursuing a dual master's degree in WMU's renowned Department of Blindness and Low Vision Studies, will perform live audio description for two upcoming performances. Read more.

 

STORY OF A WMU STUDENT AS A REAGAN NEXTGEN LEADER

A female student portrait with Machu Picchu historical site in the background.February 28, 2019

When Alexis Lenderman graduates from Western Michigan University, she will be among the mere three percent of foster youth that graduate college. A lone degree won’t cut it, either, for this rising superstar. She’ll walk away with two bachelor’s degrees -- a BBA in Entrepreneurship and a BA in Global and International Studies -- along with a concentration in humanitarianism and African studies, a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership, and a minor in Political Science. When she first transferred to WMU, she was awarded the Seita Scholarship, a program for foster youth and higher education. These experiences ingrained invaluable global perspectives in her life and gave her greater insight on sustainability, business ethics, international humanitarianism, Spanish, and global marketing. To finalize her international collegiate experience, in summer 2019 she will participate in a research-intensive study abroad to Senegal followed by the TFAS Hong Kong program. Read more.

 

Fashion startup focused on sustainability wins WMU's business pitch competition

Rosa soma holding the winning check and laughing at the camera.March 4, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — A clothing company focused on sustainable fashion won first place at Western Michigan University’s seventh annual K.C. O'Shaughnessy Business Pitch Competition and Showcase held on campus Feb. 15.

Rose Soma, a junior from Traverse City, majoring in fashion design and development, claimed the top spot after making a pitch for her company Rose Soma: Up-Cycled Shirts. Read more.

 

Climate change study suggests Michigan agriculture, tourism in jeopardy

Portrait of dr. David KaroweFebruary 22, 2019

A new study into climate change reveals major economic and ecological consequences for Michigan.

The study suggests that if climate change continues as it has the great lakes state could look very different by 2100.According to David Karowe, a Professor of Biological sciences, climate change could have unwelcome impacts on Michigan. “There are a lot of ways climate change could affect Michigan and most of them will be unpleasant,” Karowe said, “Climate change is likely to have major adverse economic impacts on our state through problems with our tourist industry and agriculture.” Read more.

 

 

Nobel Peace laureate visit to include talk with students, faculty

Selfie photo of Kailash Satyarthi and children laughing at the camera.February 21, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, a leading activist for the end of child slavery worldwide, will speak to Western Michigan University students and faculty Friday, Feb. 22. His talk at 2 p.m.in Room 2028 of Brown Hall is part of the Great Lakes PeaceJam Spring Youth Conference Weekend running through Sunday, Feb. 24, that draws more than 200 elementary-, middle-, high school- and college-age students from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. 

Satyarthi, who shared the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize with Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, is responsible for helping to free more than 87,000 children in India in partnership with his organization Bachpan Bachao Andolan, or Save the Childhood Movement. Read more.

 

Permaculture Project Abroad Receives Grant from WMU Office of Sustainability 

Group of WMU students with the WMU flag in front of Lake Atitlan, GuatemalaFebruary 15, 2019

The Western Michigan University Office for Sustainability has selected a permaculture project, part of the 2019 study abroad program to Guatemala, as a recipient of a sustainability grant. 

Dr. Lee Penyak, director of Study Abroad, and Marshall Kim, a Study Abroad peer adviser, applied for the $1,750 sustainability grant titled, "Sustaining Natural Ecosystems: A WMU Service-Learning Project Abroad." 

The study abroad program, "Health and Permaculture in Guatemala," is led by Dr. Jennifer Harrison, a WMU professor of social work, during the University's spring break. It explores the interplay among permaculture, sustainability and health care in Guatemala.  Approaching the fifth year of the program, "Health and Permaculture in Guatemala," works closely with two organizations that promote sustainability in local communities: "Mesoamerican Permaculture Institute" and "Mayan Families." Read more.

 

Three students win scholarships through Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Photo Contest

Four female students standing in front of the Great Wall of China.February 8, 2019

Three undergraduate students have won scholarships in support of their studies overseas through the college’s inaugural Study Abroad Photo Contest. The competition invites students to showcase their experiences engaged in learning activities or embracing local culture abroad. The 2018 winners were selected by the College of Arts and Sciences’ deans. Read more.

 

WMU part of $2.3 million program that boosts diversity in economics

A group photo of students from the first American Economic Association summer program hosted by WMU and MSU.January 31, 2019

Economists base much of their work on the belief that equal opportunity is vital to how society functions. Yet, the economics profession has faced a persistent lack of women and members of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Addressing this gap is a priority for the Western Michigan University Department of Economics. Since 2016, WMU has partnered with Michigan State University to offer an innovative program designed to increase diversity in economics doctoral degrees and professions. Read more.

 

Climate change could make the Great Lakes region unrecognizable

January 30, 2019

Portrait of Dr. David Karowe.KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Earth's average temperature is rising at least 10 times faster than at any period in the last 800,000 years, reports a Western Michigan University biologist who researches global change ecology.

Dr. David Karowe says if warming is left unchecked, Michigan and other states around the Great Lakes won't feel like home in a few generations. By century's end, he notes, at least half of Michigan's iconic trout, salmon, white pines and sugar maples will probably die off. Meanwhile, the state's infamous lake-effect snow will be rare, making for mostly rainy winters. Read more.

 

Western Michigan University Uses Terra Dotta to Standardize Study Abroad Process and Expand Student Participation

January 29, 2019

More than 20 study abroad students in China, holding WMU gold and brown flag.Chapel Hill, N.C.– Helping even more higher education institutions drive expanded study abroad participation nationwide, Terra Dotta, the trusted leader in higher education travel, study abroad and international program management solutions, has announced that Western Michigan University has deployed its Study Abroad solution.

Sending more than 600 students abroad each year, Western Michigan University deployed Terra Dotta to automate multiple manual processes involved in managing its more than 40 faculty-led study abroad programs. This includes facilitating the student application and enrollment process; enabling study abroad staff to track faculty-led program proposals and updates on programs offered; unifying the departments involved in delivering each program (i.e., study abroad, marketing, finance, human resources, institutional leadership); proactively mitigating travel risk; and driving department-wide efficiencies. Read more.

 

Global Classrooms Curriculum Development Grant

Three male students working with a computer.

February 11, 2019

The new Global Classrooms Curriculum Development Grant offers $2,000 to support the collaboration of WMU faculty with s faculty member abroad to offer on-campus, globally networked learning opportunities.

The grant seeks proposals that will implement one or more WMU collaborative student-assignments with students abroad that provide an active, meaningful and intentional connection across geographic and cultural barriers. Read more.

 

A deep dive into freshwater science and sustainability

Fish biology students aboard the Inland Seas Education Association schooner holding a W flag. February 1, 2019

The Great Lakes are the signature of a perfect Michigan summer, and on a hot June day, the ideal location for WMU students to get their feet wet in freshwater science and sustainability research.

Dr. Devin Bloom’s fish biology course has just set sail on Lake Michigan, aboard a schooner chartered by Inland Seas Education Association. Working with the ship’s crew, the students prepare to hoist up a trawl from the deep water off the coast of Suttons Bay. A tangle of green nets splashes onto the deck and spills around them, revealing some interesting creatures. Read more.

 

Former president of Ireland to speak on climate change at WMU

Mary RobinsonJanuary 23, 2019

Mary Robinson was the first woman to serve as President of Ireland from 1990-1997. She is best known for being active on human rights issues as well as the issues of climate change.

Robinson is coming to Western Michigan University later this month to speak about climate Change and Climate Justice. Political Science Professor Dr. Paul Clements was one of the professors involved in bringing Robinson to WMU. Clements believes Robinson has played an influential role in the world of climate change activism and policy discussion. Read More.

 

Confucius Institute Hosts 2019 Chinese New Years Gala

A female in white at a Chinese culture celebration demonstrates a traditional Chinese instrument.January 18, 2019

The Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University will host a Chinese New Year's gala at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, in the Dalton Center Recital Hall to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Boar in the Kalamazoo community. The gala is free and open to the public.

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the biggest celebrations in China and many Asian countries. WMU's celebration will use performances, games and prize drawings to give attendees a taste of what a new year's festival looks and feels like in China. Read more.

 

Professor, alumna representing WMU abroad through Fulbright Awards

January 11, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Time in Japan researching the universe's formation and a stint in Spain teaching English are on the agenda for a Western Michigan University faculty member and a recent graduate of the University.

The two received Core Fulbright Scholar Program awards to conduct research or work abroad during the 2018-19 academic year. Dr. Michael Famiano, associate professor of physics, was selected to travel to Japan and Kelsey Dovico, a 2015 WMU alumna from Royal Oak, earned a trip to Spain. Read more

 

WMU Study abroad offers 12 new faculty-led programs

January 10, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Twelve new short-termfaculty-led study abroad programs are available to Western Michigan University students in 2019. This is the greatest number of new programs WMU Study Abroad has added at one time.

"The growth of short-term programs indicates the dedication of Study Abroad staff to increasing educational opportunities for students and the staff's willingness to complete the hard work necessary to bring those programs to fruition," said Dr. Lee Penyak, director of Study Abroad in the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more.

 

Speakers tackle opioid crisis, civil discourse, mass violence, more

January 8, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Timely issues with broad community appeal are taking place this semester during a Western Michigan University lecture series that starts Tuesday, Jan. 22, and ends Monday, March 25.

One of the first talks in the Center for the Study of Ethics in Society's spring series will revolve around the opioid crisis and how to prevent addiction. The lecture, "Does Communitywide Public Health Prevention Work? From Reducing Teen Births to Addressing Today's Opioid Epidemic," will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29, in Room 157-158 Bernhard Center. Read more

 

Community, campus programs to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

January 7, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University continues its tradition of honoring slain civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with events beginning Wednesday, Jan. 16, on campus and across the broader Kalamazoo community and continuing through February.

Free and open events include a convocation, march, day of service, educational programs and presentations. "Kneeling for Justice, Then and Now: As You Choose" is this year's theme. Read more.

 

Harvard Professor lectures on the role of hate speech in social media platforms 

January 4, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Harvard University's Professor Susan Benesch, is lecturing on March 25 at 6 p.m. as part of the Winnie Veenstra Peace Lecture. In her lecture entitled, "Social Media and Mass Violence," Benesch discusses social media's dissemination of dangerous speech and its potential for preventing and mitigating mass violence. 

Facebook and other technology platforms have recently come under criticism for contributing to outbreaks of violence in places such as Myanmar and the Philippines. 

This lecture will take place in the Bernard Center Brown and Gold room. Read more.

 

WMU a leader in offering learning by virtual reality

December 18, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Travel the world for history class and actually see the culture. Practice surgery or accurately design a 3D car.

Western Michigan University offers significant opportunities in the areas of teaching, learning and research at one of the largest virtual reality laboratories at an institution of higher education.

The VR Lab at WMU Libraries was started to explore this revolutionary technology as a collaborative effort of the Office of Information Technology and Waldo Library. Read more

 

Ethics Center selects 3 engrossing books for spring discussions

December 17, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Ethical questions involving genetic engineering, cultural preservation and U.S. immigration policy are up for student and public discussion during Western Michigan University's spring semester.

The Center for the Study of Ethics in Society is hosting three book clubs that begin Thursday, Jan. 17, and continue through the end of March. The public is invited to participate along with WMU students and employees. Read more.

 

Registration open for spring Chinese culture classes

December 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Registrations are due by Thursday, Jan. 10, for spring Chinese culture courses offered by the Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University.

The 12-week, low-cost courses are taught in English and begin the week of Monday, Jan. 14. A half-price tuition discount is offered to WMU students and those age 55 and older. All ages are welcome to enroll. WMU employees only pay the $25 registration fee plus material fee (if applicable), no other tuition. Read more

 

WMU Professor advises on INTERNATIONALIZATION initiatives in Brazil

December 4, 2018

Western Michigan University professor of political science, Dr. Jim Butterfield, returned in August from two weeks in Brazil consulting with higher education institutions on internationalization efforts through a Fulbright Specialist Award. Butterfield was invited to work on a project titled “Strategic Planning for Internationalization of Brazilian Higher Education Institutions,” jointly designed by the Brazilian Federal Agency CAPES and the Brazilian Fulbright Commission and led by the University of Santa Catarina. Read more.

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement opportunities in December

December 3, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in December. Highlights include West African drumming classes, Kalamazoo Institute of Art tours and the Rootead Youth Dance Showcase. Read more.

 

WMU;s campus sexual assault prevention state funding increases

November 30, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University will receive $132,557 in state funds toward efforts to help prevent sexual assault, the largest amount awarded to the University in four years of this state grant program and the second-highest given to Michigan institutions this year. Read more.

 

MAke an Effort to understand surrounding cultures

November 20, 2018

We go to a school that preaches global engagement, but it's up to us as students to act on the motto. There are constant education events being held. This month alone, there's a Chinese Movie Night, a lecture series on Saudi Arabia and an Indonesian Cultural night. All it takes is some of your time and an open mind. You could leave with some new knowledge. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you could even leave with some new friends. Read more.

 

WMU Faculty and the NEw York Times RECOGNIZE innovation in education abroad

November 18, 2018

The Forum on Education Abroad kicks off its celebration of International Education Week 2018 by announcing the inaugural winners of the New York Times inEducation Award for Innovation in Education Abroad. This year’s winning submission came from Professors Jennifer Harrison and Timothy Palmer of Western Michigan University, on their faculty-led education abroad course “Social Justice and Sustainability in India.” Read more

 

Soga Japan Center Selected for the 2018 JBSD Foundation Grant

November 18, 2018

The WMU Soga Japan Center has been chosen by the Japan Business Society of Detroit Foundation to receive their 2018 grant for $2,000. This grant will be put towards the Soga Japan outreach programs at elementary schools.

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in November

November 1, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in November. Highlights include El Día De Los Muertos exhibits, the Women's Caucus and International Education Week.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education.  Read more

 

Valley dining center to celebrate its leed gold certification 

November 14, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University will recognize the Valley Dining Center's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design—LEED—certification during a brief program later this month.

The University community is invited to attend and learn more about the dining center's LEED Gold certification starting at 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 26, on the facility's first floor. Read more.

 

Campus MLK Day efforts recognized by national diversity magazine 

November 8, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Diversity and inclusion efforts underway at Western Michigan University helped it earn recognition for the sixth year in a row from a national publication that focuses on diversity in higher education.

WMU was one of 96 institutions from around the nation named an annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity—HEED—honoree by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. WMU has been honored by the publication each year since 2013. The University was recognized for the efforts of its Martin Luther King Jr. Committee which coordinates numerous events, including for high school and middle school students, as well as community reflections and a commemorative walk--all with a social justice theme. Read more

 

week gives international students chance to share their culture

November 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's annual celebration of International Education Week, Sunday through Saturday, Nov. 11-17, will showcase the countries, cultures and global knowledge represented on campus with a weeklong series of events.

The week is comprised of numerous free or low-cost events on WMU's campus that aim to educate and entertain attendees. All events are hosted by WMU student groups, academic departments and offices. Read more.

 

Sky Broncos advance to national competition

November 5, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's precision flight team, the Sky Broncos, won the National Intercollegiate Flying Association Region III Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference held Oct. 14-19 in Columbus, Ohio. Capturing first place in flight events and second in ground events at regionals, WMU aviators qualified for the 2019 NIFA national SAFECON set to take place May 13-19 in Janesville, Wisconsin.

This year's win marks the sixth consecutive regional championship for the 13-member team that is coached by Aviation Faculty Specialist II Ryan Seiler along with assistant coach Alex Austin, a former Sky Bronco's competitor and current flight instructor with the College of Aviation. Read more.

 

Panel discussion focuses on cultural humility

November 5, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.--"Moving toward cultural humility: A lifelong process" is the topic of a panel discussion Tuesday, Nov. 13, on the campus of Western Michigan University.

Free and open to the public, the event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Multicultural Center in the Adrian Trimpe Building and is part of the Real Talk Diversity Series.

Participants from a range of backgrounds and positions at WMU, including many students, will discuss cultural humility, building awareness and engaging the campus community in dialogue around the meaning of cultural humility and what it looks like at WMU and beyond. Read more.

 

Staff Member Recognized for leadership

October 15, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's multicultural affairs director received El Concilio's 2018 Quetzalcoatl Award in recognition of her stature as a professional Latinx leader who has been working, contributing, supporting and advocating for the well-being of the Latinx community in Kalamazoo. Diana Hernández received the accolade during an award ceremony as part of the Nuestras Raices Gala Sept. 28. Read more.

 

Student-lead study abroad program launches

October 12, 2018

Students looking to make a global impact have the unique opportunity to work in Greece this summer, assisting refugee camps. Study abroad programs typically have a focus on gaining credits, but this student lead program is looking beyond that.

“We are trying to establish this program so that it’s not just a study abroad program, it’s a student led initiative to establish a human aid network the reaches beyond Western,” third year Global and International studies major Marisa Weller said. Read more.

 

The Parkview Battery Project: Another step toward sustainability

October 10, 2018

Consumers Energy recently opened a new battery facility on Western Michigan University’s Parkview campus which will aid in the company’s clean energy plan and follow WMU’s promise to work toward sustainability by housing enough energy to power 1,000 homes at any time.

The facility, which opened on Sept. 17 on the corner of South Drake Road and Parkview Avenue, is the first of its kind in Michigan. Consumers Energy chose the Parkview campus location because of its proximity to the company’s solar garden, which opened last year, with the partnership of WMU, as well as the University’s 40-foot wind turbine. Read more

 

Study: WMU's regional economic impact exceeds $1 billion

October 5, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A new study from Southwest Michigan First and Western Michigan University has found that the University annually has a $1.6 billion economic impact on the local region.

"WMU's local economic impact is an excellent return on investment for Michiganders," says WMU President Edward Montgomery. "The University's return of $1.6 billion to its local community is 15 times greater than the state's investment in WMU. In fact, our total impact is greater than Michigan's entire budget line for all state universities." Read more.

 

film preview, discussion to focus attention on mental illness

October 2, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A preview of scenes from an upcoming movie will kick off a free community event Wednesday, Oct. 10, at Western Michigan University that explores mental health's impact on families.

Following the preview of "Coming up for Air," a 2019 feature film shot across Michigan and in Wisconsin, a coalition of mental health experts will lead a panel discussion focusing on the critical role played by caregivers and the ready availability of community treatment resources. Read more.

 

2018 Study Abroad Fair open for students, public

September 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's annual Study Abroad Fair will provide area students and the public with the information to make an overseas learning experience part of their college degree programs.

This free event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26, at Sangren Hall, both outside the building on the pedestrian mall by the main entrance and in the building's first-floor atrium. Most WMU study abroad programs are available to both current students and non-WMU participants who are at least 18 years old and eligible to enroll as a guest student. Read more.

 

Learn to compost with worms, fix a bike at Sustainability Celebration 

September 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—How to compost with worms and keep a bicycle in working order is just some of the information Western Michigan University will impart during its 2018 Sustainability Celebration from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27.

The annual event showcases efforts by WMU and its Office for Sustainability to guide and assist the campus community in fulfilling and growing its sustainability commitments and creating a culture of sustainability that improves the quality of life for all. Read more.

 

WMU offers new ways for students to get passports

September 18, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Students at Western Michigan University are having an easier time getting passports, particularly if cost has been a barrier in the past.

This fall, the University began awarding a $110 passport scholarship to all students who commit to participating in a study abroad program. Additionally, its Study Abroad office has been selected to host a Council on International Education Exchange Passport Caravan Friday, Sept. 21. Read more.

 

 

Watch the Fall 2018 State of Global Engagement Address

September 12, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—WMU students, staff and faculty are encouraged to watch the Fall 2018 State of Global Engagement Address by Dr. Paulo Zagalo-Melo, associate provost of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. The address focused on international enrollment trends at WMU and updates on initiatives toward internationalization of the curriculum. Watch the address.

 

Humanities talks explore 'Truth'

September 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The pursuit of truth in a time of widespread cynicism and doubt about the very idea of truth will be explored during the University Center for the Humanities 2018-19 speaker series "Truth."

Seven scholars from across the nation will come to the Western Michigan University campus to discuss this central theme of the humanities. The series begins with two talks Tuesday, Sept. 25, and others to follow through spring semester. Read more.

 

World-renowned economist to RECEIVE distinguished SCHOLAR award

September 4, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A veteran researcher known for being the first to study real-world topics that later became front and center in national policy discussions will be honored by Western Michigan University as a distinguished scholar.

Dr. Susan Pozo, professor of economics, will receive the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award during WMU's Fall Convocation activities at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 14, in the Bernhard Center. Read more.

 

Sustainable agriculture practices, access to food and healthful eating focus of fall lecture series

September 4, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Exploring the way people choose to eat and its impact on the environment, their health and community is the focus of weekly seminars beginning Wednesday, Sept. 12, on the campus of Western Michigan University.

"Food for All: Sustainable Practices, Community Access and Nutrition" is the topic of the speaker series exploring sustainable agriculture practices, access to food and healthful eating. WMU faculty and community members will cover a broad range of topics including the influence of politics on food, intersections of social justice and food access, local food system initiatives and more. Read more.

 

Meet Julio Foliaco

August 30, 2018 

"If anyone asks me, 'what do you feel proud about?’ I feel proud to graduate from Western Michigan University,” said Julio Foliaco, a Western Michigan University Alumni, and Colombian native.

Foliaco graduated from Western Michigan University in 1988 with a master’s degree in development administration and is currently a faculty member at one of the top ten universities in Latin America, the National University of Colombia. Read more.

 

University Theatre Travels the Globe in 2018-19 season

August 16, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The University Theatre at Western Michigan University announced its 2018-19 season featuring cowboys, drag queens, the best of Broadway, stage adaptations of movie favorites and more. This season's performances star alumni from Kalamazoo to New York City, partnering with Education for the Arts and Millennium Restaurant Group.

Season passes are on sale now and offer significant savings. Single tickets for fall semester shows will go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 4. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling (269) 387-6222. Ticket prices vary. WMU faculty, staff and students enjoy discounts to WMU Theatre productions. Read more.

 

University Partners with city to promote 'Shared Prosperity' for residents

July 26, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University President Edward Montgomery and Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell have signed an agreement formalizing WMU's collaboration in Shared Prosperity Kalamazoo, a bold new city initiative to reduce poverty and promote more broadly shared prosperity in the city. 

The memorandum of understanding, signed July 9, designates the University's Lewis Walker Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnic Relations as primarily responsible for coordinating WMU's involvement in the initiative. Read more.

 

WMU to Launch INTERCULTURAL and anthropological studies institute 

July 23, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A new institute at Western Michigan University promises to give WMU students and employees as well as community members new opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary research, experience collaborative instruction and engage in intercultural activities.

The Institute for Intercultural and Anthropological Studies officially launches at the beginning of the fall semester and will be administered by WMU's College of Arts and Sciences. Read more.

 

Global and Languages Community Provides new Student housing option

July 23, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—International and domestic Western Michigan University students will be brought together in a globally engaged living experience at the new Global and Languages Community in the Britton/Hadley residence hall beginning this fall semester.

Sign-up is underway for the new housing opportunity, which includes suite-style rooms with a newly remodeled, fully functional kitchen and communal living area. A learning community assistant will live on-site to plan programs and events such as cultural showcases, conversation circles, trips around West Michigan, foreign film nights and study abroad information sessions. Read more.

 

Take Advantage of global engagement opportunities in August

July 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in July. Highlights include Mandarin Chinese classes, Global Art classes and the Kalamazoo Scottish Festival. Read more.

 

WMU appoints new VP for diversity and inclusion

July 19, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Following a nationwide search, Western Michigan University has named an experienced college administrator, professor and rising chief diversity officer to continue advancing the University's commitment to a culture of inclusivity.

Dr. Candy McCorkle, currently director of diversity and inclusion at Alma College, will join WMU as its next vice president for diversity and inclusion, effective Aug. 1. Read more.

 

Fulbright Specialist envisions more conflict as Arctic ice melt

July 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—With melting ice opening up access to new trade routes and natural resources, many policymakers as well as ethicists worry that political and economic competition will lead to more conflict in the Arctic region.

They include Dr. Fritz Allhoff, a professor of philosophy at Western Michigan University, who recently helped stage an international workshop that developed realistic scenarios for what future Arctic conflicts might look like. Read more.

 

Women's aviation team places first among collegiate competitors 

July 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Three Western Michigan University pilots captured first place in the collegiate division and fifth place overall in the women-only Air Race Classic cross-country flying event.

Pilot Lauren Quandt of Grosse Ile, co-pilot Shelby Satkowiak of Mio and teammate Kelly Erdmann of Southfield finished the more than 2,600-mile course June 19 to 22 against an aircraft-specific handicap, rather than head-to-head against other competitors. Read more

 

WMU local HISTORY expert to appear on popular PBS series

July 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University local history expert and a history-making location in Kalamazoo are featured in an episode of the popular PBS series "10 That Changed America," airing nationwide from 8 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 10, Eastern time. (Check local PBS listings and times.)

For the series installment titled "10 Streets That Changed America," PBS tapped Lynn Houghton of WMU's Archives and Regional History Collections for her knowledge about the Kalamazoo Mall, the first downtown pedestrian mall in America. Read more.

 

Student awarded Critical Language Scholarship to study in Japan

June 22, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University student from Paw Paw is in Hikone, Japan, studying Japanese thanks to a U.S. Department of State scholarship.

Joshua White, a graduate student in electrical engineering, received a full scholarship from the state department's Critical Language Scholarship program to participate in an eight-week summer course at the University of Shiga Prefecture in Hikone. Read more.

 

Student group recognized by the world's largest HR association

June 22, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Western Michigan University chapter of the Society for Excellence in Human Resources has been recognized by the Society for Human Resource Management for the eighth time in ten years.

The Society for Human Resource Management has awarded a 2017-18 Superior Merit Award to WMU'S SHRM student chapter for providing superior growth and development opportunities to its members. Read more.

 

Area Families needed to host international visitors

June 15, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University is seeking homestay opportunities for visiting international teachers and students arriving in August. A stipend of $450 a month will be paid to each hosting family for the duration of the guest's stay, which can range from four weeks to one year.

Host families will be assigned an international visitor and are required to provide them with a private bedroom and two meals daily—breakfast and dinner. The guest pays for all other personal expenses while in the United States. Read more. 

 

WMU becomes part of NATIONAL student mental health effort

June 14, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—As part of its Success at WMU initiative that will launch with the fall 2018 incoming class of new students, Western Michigan University has completed its initial membership steps to become a JED Campus, putting a campuswide focus on student well-being and mental health.

WMU is now one of nearly 200 campuses across the country enrolled in the four-year-old national initiative that serves more than 2 million college students. The JED Campus program is designed to increase student resilience and decrease the two leading causes of death among young adults--accidents, including those caused by prescription drug overdoses or alcohol poisoning, and suicide. Read more.

 

Three Diversity and inclusion VP candidates to visit campus

June 14, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Three final candidates for the position of Western Michigan University's vice president for diversity and inclusion will be on the campus Wednesday through Friday, June 20-22.

Each candidate will spend two days touring the campus and community, and meeting with a variety of University leaders, students and community members. In addition, all of the candidates will make a public presentation and address audience questions. Their public presentations will be live-streamed and available for later review. Read more.

 

Perry-Clark named associate dean of Lee Honors College

June 8, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A champion for understanding cultural diversity in the teaching of writing and a key leader in the creation of Western Michigan University's new general education program, WMU Essential Studies, has been appointed associate dean of the Lee Honors College.

Dr. Staci Perryman-Clark, WMU associate professor of English, will begin her new role at the University Wednesday, Aug. 1. Perryman-Clark has been serving as director of First-Year Writing in the Department of English since 2010 and also serving as associate director of the Office of Faculty Development since 2016. Read more.

 

Professor starts endowment to strengthen department's MULTICULTURALISM 

June 1, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University faculty member has established an endowment that will continue his legacy of instilling multiculturalism into the fabric of the Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology.

Dr. Joseph Morris, professor of counselor education and counseling psychology, has bequeathed a gift that creates the Joseph R. Morris Endowed Professorship in Race and Psychology. This endowed professorship will enable his department to recruit and retain faculty who have made exceptional contributions to the study of race in counseling psychology or race and psychology. Read more

 

Center for Fostering Success announces new partner, TRANSITION plans

May 31, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's Center for Fostering Success, the organizational structure under which the University's award-winning Seita Scholars Program and a statewide college network operates, has announced a new partnership and plans for a summer of transitions, reorganization and personnel changes. Read more.

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement opportunities in June

May 31, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in June. Highlights include Tai Chi and dance classes, CELCIS conversation circles, and global talks at the Kalamazoo Public Library. Read more

 

Sales program again nationally recognized for excellence

May 29, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's sales and business marketing program was identified for the 12th consecutive year by the Sales Education Foundation as a top national program that both prepares students for careers in professional selling and helps elevate the sales profession. With 320 students and more than 1,600 alumni, WMU's program is one of the largest in the country. Read more.

 

Early registration extended for livable communities conference

May 18, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Early registration has been extended through Friday, June 1, for the fifth annual Summer Conference on Livable Communities at Western Michigan University. 

The focus of the conference is to explore improving the quality of life by advancing more balanced, affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation systems. The annual event draws transportation researchers, educators, students, advocates, community members, policymakers and transportation practitioners.

Held at Floyd Hall on the Parkview Campus, the event runs Thursday and Friday, June 21-22, and is hosted by the Transportation Research Center for Livable Communities, a Tier 1 University Transportation Center funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Read more.

 

Canadian scholar wins WMU's 2018 GrÜndler prize

May 17, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Canadian scholar who specializes in Middle English literature has won Western Michigan University's Otto Gründler Book Prize for his book investigating the widespread belief in fairies and fairyland in medieval culture. Read more.

 

WMU's Seita foster youth effort garners national acclaim 

May 17, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines—has announced Western Michigan University as the 2018 recipient of its Excellence in Innovation Award.

The $100,000 award, given biennially, recognizes WMU for achievement in finding a powerful solution to expanding higher education opportunities through its Seita Scholars Program. Read more.

 

student awarded prestigious study abroad scholarship

May 15, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University junior Alexis Lenderman, of Flint, is among just 1,000 undergraduate students across the country to receive a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to learn overseas.

Lenderman, an entrepreneurship and global and international studies major, plans to use her scholarship money to study Spanish in Quito, Ecuador, this summer. Read more.

 

WMU geology efforts lead to national recognition, two publications 

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Geological Society of America has recognized two strands of Western Michigan University geologic research with the publication of two rare special papers—each focused on an area of WMU faculty expertise.

The unusual publications are among just over 500 such publications in the GSA's 130-year history. Both WMU-related volumes were published in April, making the recognition even more unusual. The two publications each contain multiple papers or "chapters" focused on a single topic. Kehew says the publication of a single special paper by GSA is considered a major accolade for both a researcher and his or her department. Read more

 

WMU search for Diversity and inclusion vp is in full swing 

May 14, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The search for a new vice president for diversity and inclusion is in full swing at Western Michigan University, with Wednesday, May 30, set as the deadline for submitting nomination and application materials. Read more

 

First WMU student interning with PArker Hannifin in Germany

May 4, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University student is the first to intern with Parker Hannifin, a U.S. American Fortune 250 leader in motion and control technologies, in one of their Germany locations.  
Anna Litvinova, a WMU junior majoring in aerospace engineering and German speaker, is interning abroad with Cleveland-based Parker Hannifin in their Mainz, Germany location. Litvinova's internship runs from January to June of 2018. 

While nearly 600 WMU students study abroad every year, Litvinova's credit-bearing internship is different because she is gaining "on the job" experience.  At Parker Hannifin, Litvinova works closely with project engineers on tasks assigned to her every day, providing her with her first hands-on engineering experience. Litvinova hopes to contribute to the improvement of safety in aviation with the knowledge gained at her internship with Parker Hannifin. Read more.

 

Montgomery to speak at upcoming community breakfast

President MontgomeryMay 1, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University President Edward Montgomery is the final speaker for this season's Mercantile Bank of Michigan Breakfast Speaker Series hosted by the Haworth College of Business at 8 a.m. Friday, May 18.

Montgomery will give a presentation titled "WMU: Higher Education at the Crossroads" in 1035 Fetzer Center. Read more

 

application open to incoming freshman for study abroad programs

WMU freshman studying abroadApril 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Program applications are now being accepted for incoming freshmen who would like to study abroad before beginning their first semester at Western Michigan University.

Students committed to beginning study at WMU in fall 2018 are encouraged to apply to one of three new 10-day, faculty-led courses that take place this August, before classes begin, and may satisfy a general education requirement. The deadline for incoming freshmen to apply is Sunday, May 6. Read more.

 

State's first lady announces fall summit to be at WMU

Sue SnyderApril 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—First lady Sue Snyder announced April 10 that Michigan's fourth "Inform. Empower. Prevent. Let's End Campus Sexual Assault" summit will be held Monday, Sept. 24, at WMU.

"I'm proud of the leadership role Michigan has taken to address the prevalence of sexual assault on our college and university campuses. These statewide summits are an important part of our work to raise awareness and prevention efforts to ultimately change the culture and put an end to campus sexual assault," Snyder said in making the announcement. Read more

 

Registration open for summer Chinese culture classes

Students at a Chinese painting workshop.April 19, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Registrations are due by Friday, May 11, for summer Chinese culture courses offered by the Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University.

The six-week low-cost courses begin the week of Monday, May 14, are taught in English and are open to all ages. A half-price tuition discount is offered to those age 55 and older, WMU part-time faculty and staff, and WMU students; while tuition is free for full-time WMU employees. Some courses charge all participants a fee for materials, and those with low enrollment may be canceled. Read more

 

Take advantage of global ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES in may 

Globally engaged studentsApril 19, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in May. Highlights include meditation classes, Middle Eastern drumming, art exhibits, family concerts and a performance by the Spanish Harlem Orchestra. Read more.

 

Field notes: An Undergraduate on the path to discovery discusses her research

April 18, 2018

Senior public history major Suzanne Grimmer earned a Lee Honors College Research and Creative Activities Scholarship for her project, “The Politics of Memory: Interpreting Nazi History in Modern Germany for a Global Audience.”

She conducted research in Poland last year, visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Warsaw Ghetto to see how sites like these are preserved and interpreted for the modern world. She has also completed two internships at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, where she administered surveys on wartime documents and artifacts. Read more

 

Kal-Haven Hike-Athon to raise money for Zambian scholarships

April 16, 2018

In Zambia, it costs just $1 a day to attend secondary school, and $5 can help a student attend school for a week. In comparison to many of the educational costs for people in the United States, this may seem like a meager cost, but to many in Zambia, this can be completely insurmountable.

The upcoming Kal-Haven Hike-Athon is a 34 mile hike on the Kal-Haven trail, with participants being asked to pledge a donation-per-mile, with all the donations going towards funding school scholarships for children in Zambia. Read more.

 

senior engineering students showcase projects at design conference

April 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—An electromagnetic radiation shield for spacecraft, a customizable wheelchair bracket and a wireless charger for essential medical devices like pacemakers are among the capstone projects that will be showcased this month by senior engineering students at Western Michigan University.

WMU's 62nd Conference on Senior Engineering and Design is free and open to the public. It will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences' Floyd Hall on WMU's Parkview Campus. Read more.

 

Confucius Institute hosts 2nd annual Chinese bridge competition

April 10, 2018

In 2018, Confucius Institute at WMU will hold its 2nd Chinese Bridge Competition at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 21 in Sangren Hall at WMU main campus. The competition is to provide a chance for the middle and high school students across Southeast Michigan to demonstrate their progress in Chinese learning and gain deeper appreciation of Chinese culture and language. The competition is open to public.

Starting from fall 2016, the Confucius Institute began to provide Chinese courses in Loy Norrix High School and Kalamazoo Central High School. The 1st Chinese Bridge Competition was hosted at WMU April, 2017 to showcase the student's achievement in these classes. 

The Confucius Institute at WMU is a non-profit organization aimed at providing Chinese and cultural studies for Southwest Michigan, which includes Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. Read more.

 

noble laureate to give talk on peace building, women's rights

April 9, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Liberian peace activist who helped bring an end to the second Liberian civil war in 2003 will present a public address at 7 p.m. Friday, April 13, in the South Ballroom of Western Michigan University's Bernhard Center.

Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee (pronounced LAY-Ma BO-wee) will give a talk titled "It's Time for Women to Stop Being Politely Angry." Organized as a fundraiser, the event is open to the public with a suggested donation of $15 and will be preceded by a Nobel Reception.

 

top geography students test skills in state bee at wmu

April 4,2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Middle-school geography whizzes from across the state will be on the Western Michigan University campus Friday, April 6, to compete for the Michigan National Geographic Bee state title and a chance to travel to Washington, D.C., for the national contest. Read more.

 

Political Theorist links inequality, citizenship, education's promise

April 4,2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A faculty member from Harvard University will discuss her views on promoting equality through schooling when she speaks at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 12, at Western Michigan University.

Dr. Danielle Allen, a professor in Harvard's Department of Government and its Graduate School of Education, will discuss "Inequality, Citizenship and the Promise of Education" during a talk in 2452 Knauss Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Read more.

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in April

March 29, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in April. Highlights include art exhibits, CELCIS conversation circles, jewelry making, family concerts and a choreography showcase. Read more

 

wmu to host regional steel bridge, concrete canoe competitions

March 29, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Students from 10 universities in Michigan and Ohio will test their engineering skills during two challenging regional contests Friday through Sunday, April 6-8, at Western Michigan University.

Members of the public are invited to watch as teams compete to build a steel bridge and a concrete canoe as part of the American Society of Civil Engineers North Central Regional Competition. The teams will be competing in a variety of categories in both contests in hopes of advancing to the national finals. Read more.

 

wmu group helps rural alaskans do their taxes

March 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—It took planes and snowmobiles to get there, but an intrepid group from Western Michigan University recently visited four rural Alaskan villages and prepared 300 tax returns for local residents. Read more.

 

celebrated writer to speak at WMU

March 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Chinese-American poet and novelist Dr. Xuefei Jin will speak on "Displacement as Opportunity" at a lecture at 4 p.m. Thursday, April 5, in 1910 Sangren Hall at Western Michigan University. Read more.

 

Campus hosts annual lavender graduation

March 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.–Western Michigan University's Office of Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender Student Services will host its annual Lavender Graduation ceremony at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the Wesley Foundation.

The free and open celebration recognizes LBGTQ students' contributions to the University and acknowledges their achievements throughout their college experience. Students are recognized for their leadership, success and achievement. This is also an opportunity to recognize faculty, staff, or WMU groups who have made a significant contribution to the LBGTQ community at the University. Read more.

 

Kalamazoo's commitment to education topic of panel at wMU

March 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The evolution of the Kalamazoo region's commitment to educational equity is the focus of a panel discussion Monday, April 2, on the campus of Western Michigan University.

"Educational Equity: From the 'Kalamazoo Case' to the Kalamazoo Promise and Beyond," is the topic of the event at 6 p.m. in 204 Bernhard Center. The free, public event is part of the Center for the Study of Ethics in Society's lecture series. It is co-sponsored by the WMU Cooley Law School and the College of Education and Human Development.

Co-moderators Dr. Kathy Purnell, WMU instructor of political science, and Dr. Ashley Atkins, assistant professor of philosophy, will facilitate the panelists' discussion of Kalamazoo's educational past all the way to its present. Discussion on the past will include the "Kalamazoo Case" authored by Thomas M. Cooley in 1874 in his role as Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court. Read more

 

Speaker Discusses how Families deal with incarceration of other members

March 23, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. Dana Cunningham, licensed clinical psychologist and author, will speak at a pair of events in Kalamazoo Thursday, April 5, on how families deal with the incarceration of family members.

Her presentation, "Beyond the Bars: The Impact of Parental Incarceration," is sponsored by the University-Community Empowerment Center at Western Michigan University, AARP and Northside Ministerial Alliance. Lectures are free and open to the public. 

She will speak at 11 a.m. in 4010 Health and Human Services Building on WMU's East Campus and will follow with a discussion with students, faculty and community members. No registration is required. Read more.

 

Saeed honored with distinguished research award

March 21, 2018

Dr. Fahad Saeed recently received the Distinguished Research and Creative Scholarship Award given by WMU’s Office of the Vice President for Research. Saeed is an assistant professor in the both the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Department of Computer Science. He also is the director of the Parallel Computing and Data Science Laboratory and the co-director of the Center for High Performance Computing and Big Data.

 Saeed joined WMU in January 2014 after serving as a research fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He has become an expert in the design and development of algorithmic and high performance computing.  Read more

 

Regional counseling psychology conference being held at WMU

March 16, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The 31st annual Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference will be held Friday and Saturday, April 13-14, in Sangren Hall on Western Michigan University's Main Campus.

 Those planning to attend may preregister at wmich.edu/greatlakescp or register on-site. The deadline for early registration is 11:59 p.m., EST, Friday, March 23. Early registrants receive a discounted price. Read more.

 

Success @ WMU initiative seeking students to serve as peer mentors 

March 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University is now hiring motivated, supportive students to serve as peer mentors for its new Success @ WMU initiative.

Positions pay $10.25 an hour for five to 12 hours per week. The application deadline is Sunday, March 18. Read more

 

Poet, advocate for undocumented writers is next frostic speaker

March 12, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich—Poet Marcelo Hernandez Castilo will read from his works at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 15, as part of the spring 2018 Gwen Frostic Reading Series at Western Michigan University.

Castilo, the author of "Cenzontle," "Dulce" and "Children of the Land," will read during a free public event in 2452 Knauss Hall.  In addition to being an essayist and award-winning poet, Castilo is an advocate for undocumented writers.

Born in Mexico, Castilo emigrated with his family to California at age 5. He earned a bachelor's degree at the University of Sacramento and became the first undocumented student to graduate from the Master of Fine Arts program at the University of Michigan. 

In 2015, he became a founding member of the Undocupoets campaign, which protested and was instrumental in eliminating publishers' exclusion of undocumented writers from eligibility for most first-book contests. Read more.

 

title IX issues are focus of new WMU training modules, student survey

March 8, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A new online training module and a new campus climate survey—both focused on sexual misconduct—are on tap for the Western Michigan University campus community when students and faculty return Monday, March 12, from spring recess.

Some 6,000 randomly selected students are set to receive an email invitation from President Edward Montgomery to take an anonymous online survey designed to gauge the campus climate and assess student experiences, perceptions, attitudes and behaviors when it comes to addressing sexual violence or sexual misconduct on campus. The survey also asks students about their awareness of campus resources available to help students when it comes to reporting incidents. Read more.

 

criminologist tapped for his expertise on video games and violence 

March 7, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In the wake of recent high-profile mass shootings, Western Michigan University's Dr. Whitney DeCamp has been serving as an expert for media nationwide on the question of whether such violence is linked to teen video game use.

The answer to the question, he says, is that there is no real relationship between the two. The real predictors of violent behavior, his research shows, are whether a child comes from a safe home and whether a child has experienced violence in the home. Read more

 

Climate change and its relationship to natural disasters to be discussed

March 7, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Preparing for future natural disasters by responding to and anticipating changing climates is the topic of a lecture at 3 p.m. Friday, March 16, on the campus of Western Michigan University.

Dr. Carol P. Harden, former president of the Association of American Geographers, will give a free, public talk on "More Disasters or a More Sustainable Future? Challenges and Opportunities of Climate Change" in 2119 Wood Hall.

Dramatic environmental changes have demonstrated that the future once thought of as distant is approaching more rapidly than expected. Read more

 

Japanese musician to perform on campus during second us tour

March 5, 2018

KALAMAZOO Mich.—On his second U.S. tour, Sato Michiyoshi will perform a unique blend of traditional and modern styles on the "shamisen," a Japanese three-stringed banjo, at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 12, at Western Michigan University. The free, public event will take place in the University's Dalton Center Lecture Hall on main campus.

Michiyoshi is an award-winning performer of "Tsugaru-jamisen," a dynamic style of music played on the shamisen. In his performance, Michiyoshi will focus on demonstrating the range and flexibility of the instrument. The program will begin with introductory remarks from Dr. Joshua Solomon of Hirosaki University, who will be Sato's interpreter during his tour. Read more

 

engineer deans bring ideas and issues to capitol hill

March 5, 2018

Deans from engineering colleges across the country met in Washington, D.C., in early February at the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) to share ideas and discuss common concerns. Some 150 deans from both public and private universities participated. They also spent time with legislators and legislative staff to talk about education issues impacting the state. 

Dean Toutanji, from WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences -- along with the deans from Michigan State University and Michigan Tech -- met with the legislative assistants to Senators Debbie Stabenow (D) and Gary Peters (D), and the staff of representatives Fred Upton (R), Jack Bergman (R) and Mike Bishop (R). Read more

 

business pitch competition open to Wmu student entrepreneurs 

March 2, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Students from across the Western Michigan University campus are invited to present their business pitches for cash prizes totaling $5,000 at the K.C. O'Shaughnessy Business Pitch Competition and Showcase Friday, March 23. Read more.

 

student earns awards from national, state recreational sports groups 

March 1, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A master's degree candidate at Western Michigan University is one of only 12 graduate students from across the country to receive a 2018 NIRSA-William N. Wasson Student Leadership & Academic Award.

Justine Morneau, a graduate assistant for facilities in WMU's University Recreation department from Bad Axe, will be presented with the honor Sunday, March 4, by the NIRSA: School of Collegiate Recreation organization during its annual conference in Denver. Read more

 

Associate Provost of the haenicke institute for global education speaks at Eurasia Higher Education Summit

Associate Provost speaks at 2018 EURIE conventionFebruary 28, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Western Michigan University was represented by Paulo Zagalo-Melo, the associate provost of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, at the EURIE, Eurasia Higher Education Summit in Istanbul, Turkey.  The conference ran from Feb. 14 to Feb. 16, and connects higher education institutions from all over the world who value internationalization with the Eurasian region in an effort to share knowledge and resources.

Zagalo-Melo spoke at EURIE on "Internationalization of Curriculum: Institutional Level."

Keynote Speaker at the event was President and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Waterloo, Feridun Hamdullahpur. Read more.

 

Travel the world without leaving Michigan at 29th annual international festival 

February 28, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The music, dance, food and fashions of nearly two dozen cultures will be showcased during Western Michigan University's 29th annual International Festival from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 25, on the second floor of the Bernhard Center. This year, the International Festival will include a food drive for the Invisible Need Project. Read more.

 

university summit to focus on student success issues

February 27, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich—An afternoon of innovation, collaboration and inspiration has been planned for Western Michigan University's spring 2018 Student Success Summit, to be held from noon to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, in the Bernhard Center's South Ballroom.

Those planning to attend the semiannual event are required to register by Monday, March 5, at wmich.edu/changeresearch/broncosfirst/student-success-summit. Attendees will be able to network and participate in facilitated discussions with the goal of moving toward increasing student success and retention in a collaborative way. Read more.

 

Annual Food marketing conference to draw hundreds to grand rapids

February 26, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's acclaimed Food Marketing Conference is set for Monday and Tuesday, March 19-20, and is expected to draw up to 800 industry executives to DeVos Place in Grand Rapids.

The two-day conference will feature presentations on current trends in the food and consumer package goods industries and will explore this year's conference theme, "Retail Reinvention: Making the Customer Hero." Registration is ongoing at foodmarketingconference.com. Read more

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in March

February 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in March. Highlights include the 29th annual International Festival, musical performances, lectures and global briefings.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more.

 

life cycle and social impact assessment expert to speak at wmu

February 20, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Developing methods to account for the positive effects of individual and corporate sustainability efforts—and not just the harms being caused—is the topic of a free lecture at Western Michigan University Thursday, March 15.

Dr. Gregory Norris, of Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health, will speak on "NetPositive Enterprise: A New Form of Accounting for Achieving Well-Being Societies, Sustainable Economic Development, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals," from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in 1910 Sangren Hall. Free parking will be available in Parking Lot 41, behind Sangren Hall.  Read more

 

WMU to host a free chinese new year Gala

February 14, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University will host a New Year's Gala from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, in the Bernhard Center East Ballroom to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Dog in the Kalamazoo community. The event is free and open to the public.

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the biggest celebrations in China and many Asian countries.

The gala features live entertainment including songs, dances, poetry recitals, martial arts and folk music, all performed by instructors and students in Confucius Institute language programs.  Read more

 

western herald editor wins prestigious national journalism fellowship

February 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Elissa C. Kedziorek, editor-in-chief of Western Michigan University's student newspaper, the Western Herald, will head to Washington, D.C., in mid-March as the 2018 Michigan Fellow for the National Newspaper Association's News Fellows Program.

Kedziorek, a junior journalism major from Tecumseh, is one of just eight young journalists from across the nation selected for the association's fellows program that is now in its sixth year. It is designed to match the journalism fellows with seasoned mentors while they conduct research and develop news literacy skills by looking at issues from a community newspaper perspective.

The gala features live entertainment including songs, dances, poetry recitals, martial arts and folk music, all performed by instructors and students in Confucius Institute language programs. Read more.

 

WMU's heritage hall renovation earns prestigious global engineering award

John Seelman accepting the 2018 Award of Engineering Excellence.February 13, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The renovation of Western Michigan University's historic Heritage Hall has been recognized by ASHRAE, a global society of building engineers, to receive the organization's 2018 Award of Engineering Excellence, an honor bestowed upon international building projects only five times over the past 30 years. Read more.

 

student contest part of MLK academy's 50th-anniversary celebration

MLK Program anniversary program

Anniversary logo

February 12, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—One of Western Michigan University's longest-running academic support programs, the Martin Luther King Jr. Student Scholars Academy, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Students were instrumental in founding the MLK Academy, and now students are playing a role in publicizing and commemorating the academy's semicentennial. Read more.

 

event highlights teaching, research, diversity and engagement 

February 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's "Spring Convocation: Recognition of Discovery, Diversity and Global Engagement" will take place Friday, Feb. 23, at the Fetzer Center and include remarks by Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and state Sen. Margaret O'Brien during two symposiums. Read more.

 

Research Briefings in global studies to begin this February 

The series will kick off on Feb. 22 with Alissa Perkins

The series will kick off on Feb. 22 with Alissa Perkins

February 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The global and international studies program is giving Western Michigan University faculty a platform to discuss their research during a series of briefings on global topics this spring semester.

The sessions will cover topics such as: "Diversity in Cities: Past and Present" on Feb. 22 with Alisa Perkins and James Palitessa, "Telling Migration Stories" on March 21 with Ann Miles and Susan Pozo, and "Interviews in Fieldwork" on April 4 with Chien-Juh Gu and Greg Veeck.  The purpose of these research briefings is to build cross-disciplinary research connections among faculty members though out the university.

The research briefings will be held in 3025 Brown Hall. Read more.   

 

$500 Cash prize For winner of Tobacco free PSA video contest

February 6, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Student film makers have the opportunity to create and submit their very own tobacco free public service announcement for the chance to win a $500 WMU Bookstore gift card, along with having their video shown at various Western Michigan University hosted athletic events, and the chance to present the video to President Edward Montgomery and his cabinet. 

The video submissions should educate students, faculty, and staff about the WMU tobacco free policy, and remind them of their duty to uphold it. Videos should be a maximum of 30 seconds, and are due to Western Student Association Vice President Logan R. Brown by Feb. 18 at 11:59 p.m. This contest is sponsored by the Western Student Association, Graduate Student Association, Faculty Senate, WMU Athletics, and the Office of the President.  Read more

 

Author, film critic and New yorker staff member David denby to visit campus

February 2, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The abandonment of truth and the impact of ideology on public discourse will be the focus Thursday, Feb. 8, when author, film critic and New Yorker staff member David Denby speaks at Western Michigan University.

"The Humanities in the Age of Demagoguery" is the title of Denby's free, public talk at 7 p.m. in 3508 Knauss Hall on WMU's main campus. Denby will explore the current environment and examine how the humanities and serious reading at all levels of education can counteract political opportunism in discourse. Read more

 

Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies professors awarded grant to implement Michigan STARTALK Chinese teacher and student academies 

February 1, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. Moi Mooi Lew, faculty specialist I, social-cultural studies in the Teaching, Learning and Educational Studies department, Dr. James Muchmore, associate chair of the department and professor of socio-cultural studies, and Dr. Regena Nelson, chair of the department and professor of early childhood in the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University, have received a $112,458 STARTALK grant to implement Chinese teacher and student academies. 

The teacher academy will include both online and intensive face-to-face learning that will support fifteen current and future Chinese teachers. The student academy will provide a four-week long linguistically and culturally enriched learning experience to fifty students in grades 6-12 in the Kalamazoo area. The program will take place during the summer of 2018. Read more.

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in February

January 30, 2018

Kalamazoo, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in February. Highlights include art exhibits, lectures, and opportunities to bond with women from all over the world through exercise.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more

 

National organization recognizes WMU advertising and PROMOTION students 

January 30, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Two Western Michigan University advertising and promotion students were selected by the American Advertising Federation to participate in the organization's Most Promising Multicultural Students Program for 2018. This is the third consecutive year that WMU students have been chosen to participate in the prestigious program.

Abrahan Garcia, of Holland, and Alex Gutierrez-Spencer, of Monroe, are two of only 50 recipients of the annual award for the nation's top multicultural college seniors with exceptional academic and professional achievements. The students will be honored at a ceremony during the program Monday through Thursday, Feb. 12-15, in New York City, and will have the chance to learn more about the advertising industry through networking, interviewing and industry immersion opportunities. Read more.

 

Kalamazoo community offers immigrants a circle of support 

January 29, 2018

Members of the Kalamazoo community came together in support of undocumented youth at a candlelight vigil held by Moviemiento Cosecha Kalamazoo in downtown’s Bronson Park on Jan. 24.

 The vigil allowed for those affected by current immigration laws to share their personal struggles. The event also opened up an opportunity for attendees to give words of affirmation to the undocumented immigrants who stood before them at the vigil. Several Kalamazoo natives made it clear that they did not plan on stopping the fight for immigrants. Read more

 

wmu holds first black student summit

January 28, 2018

On Saturday, Jan. 20, a Black Student Leadership Summit was held at Western Michigan University. This was the first time the summit took place. It was put together by WMU’s Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life Hailey M. Mangrum. The summit lasted from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. in Sangren Hall. Approximately 75 students were in attendance..

 It engaged the students on leadership, advocacy and legacy. This summit was a great way to network and learn things that could be very beneficial to black student life on campus and in the real world. Read more

 

Professor transforming aviation education using augmented reality

January 26, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Lori Brown, associate professor of aviation at Western Michigan University, has teamed up with Microsoft to transform aviation training through the use of Microsoft's HoloLens mixed reality technology, the first self-contained, holographic computer.

Brown, who is recognized internationally for her use of technology in aviation education, has been chosen by Microsoft for its Women in Mixed Reality Spotlight Partner Program for her transformative work in aviation training. She was featured during Microsoft's Mixed Reality Academy at Microsoft headquarters in Washington state late last fall and was recently awarded the WMU Extended University Programs Innovative Teaching award.

Microsoft HoloLens enables users to engage with 3D holographic content mixed with the physical world, giving holograms real-world context and scale. With the technology, students in WMU's College of Aviation can be immersed, for instance, inside jet turbofan engines or interact with 3D cockpits to learn and practice real-world aviation scenarios and procedures. Read more

 

WMU department of statistics becomes niss affiliate

January 26, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's Department of Statistics has been named an affiliate of the National Institute of Statistical Sciences.

The NISS Affiliate Program is a communication enabler for the statistical and data science community. The program brings together statistical and data science professionals from all sectors, including academia, industry, and governmental and national labs, to support research discussions, information dissemination, human resource development and networking. Read more

 

 

Graduate students awarded research and travel grants

January 25, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Congratulations to the following recipients of Graduate Student Research and Travel Grants during 2016-17. Twenty students from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences received the awards. WMU’s Graduate Student Research Fund and Travel Grants supports graduate students engaged in independent scholarly research, scientific inquiry, inventive technology and original artistic activity. Grants are fully funded and administered by the Graduate College and range up to $1,000. Students may apply for up to $600 of additional support to defray the cost of international travel. Read more

 

Industrial Organizational behavior management graduate trip

January 24, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—During July 2017, one faculty member and 10 graduate students of the Industrial Organizational Behavior Management graduate program traveled to Israel to present at a conference and network with the local academics and practitioners. The Industrial Organizational Behavior Management graduate program is part of WMU’s Department of Psychology and is recognized as a world leader for the discipline of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM)—the application of behavior analysis principles to workplace settings. Read more

 

Spring ethics series begins with mlk panel presentation

January 16, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The spring 2018 offerings in the Center for the Study of Ethics in Society lecture series will kick off Thursday, Jan. 25, with a panel presentation revolving around the Kalamazoo community's annual celebration of the life of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Read more

 

film about young adults, suicide highlights spring lecture series

January 10, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A screening and panel discussion of "The 'S' Word," a film about young adults and suicide, is planned for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Westnedge Ave., as part of a spring Lee Honors College Lyceum Lecture series, which begins Wednesday, Jan. 17, at Western Michigan University. Read more

 

Public invited to discuss gender inequality in higher education

January 10, 2018

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Two upcoming events at Western Michigan University that are free and open to the public will delve into the complexities of gender inequity in higher education.

This timely exploration will begin with a discussion of the 2014 award-winning book "Disrupting the Culture of Silence: Confronting Gender Inequality and Making Change in Higher Education." Hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences Women's Caucus, the event is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19, in Brown Hall's second-floor Clifford Media Center. Read more

 

Three Students Receive Gilman Scholarships to Study Abroad

Sail boat in the harbor of Cape Town, South AfricaDecember 21, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Three Western Michigan University students are using a prestigious national scholarship to study overseas during the University's 2018 spring semester, or longer, through the Gilman International Scholarship Program.

Katelyn Drummond of Dorr, Kirsten Stowell of Mattawan and Nicholas Talamantez of Kalkaska are among about 1,000 American undergraduate students to receive the Gilman Scholarship to study abroad. Read more.

 

Community, Campus PRograms to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. December 20, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University continues its tradition of honoring slain civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with events planned in January on campus and across the broader Kalamazoo community.

Free, public events include a convocation, march, day of service, educational programs and presentations. "What is your position in times of challenge and controversy?" is this year's theme, and events include the following. Read more

 

Longtime Professor, Administrator to BEcome New Business Dean

Portrait of Dean Satish DeshpandeDecember 19, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Following a national search, Dr. Satish Deshpande, a longtime Western Michigan University faculty member and administrator, will become dean of WMU's Haworth College of Business, effective Jan. 1.

Deshpande, a professor of management, has served as the interim dean of the college since July 2016. Prior to that, he served for five years—2011 to 2016—as the college's associate dean for operations and graduate programs.

"Dr. Deshpande knows the Haworth College of Business inside out, and he's already helping it grow and innovate in ways that acknowledge and celebrate the college's incredible strengths in people, programs and facilities," says Dr. Susan Stapleton, WMU interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. "We are fortunate to have found the management and leadership qualities needed for this role right here in the University community." Read more

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement Opportunities in January

Two international students practicing English in a WMU CELCIS course.December 18, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in January. Highlights include global lectures, the National Day of Racial Healing and opportunities to help international students learn conversational English.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more

 

Engineering Management Program Now Globally Certified

Logo of The American Society for Engineering ManagementDecember 15, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's master's degree in engineering management is now one of just six programs in the world to be certified by the American Society for Engineering Management.

The global certification is designed to recognize master's programs that meet the rigorous standards of the society, and represent "outstanding achievement in quality and content," according to ASEM.

"We are so pleased to have our program recognized with this prestigious certification," says Dr. Steven E. Butt, chair of WMU's Department of Industrial and Entrepreneurial Engineering and Engineering Management. "Our faculty is outstanding and has created a solid program that meets the needs of employers, challenges our students and makes them ideal candidates for leadership positions in industry."

Dr. David Lyth and Dr. Larry Mallak, both professors in the department, lead the program and were recently notified that it passed its initial certification. ASEM evaluators visited campus in October to assess the program quality and meet with students, faculty, alumni and staff involved in the program. The evaluators reported being impressed with what they observed and noted the rigor of the program. Read more

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement Opportunities in December

November 29, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in December. Highlights include a Kwanzaa celebration, various art exhibits, performances and conversation circles to help international students practice their English.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more

 

Business information systems professor accepted into fulbright specialist roster

HanNovember 14, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University professor has been accepted to the highly competitive Fulbright Specialist Roster.

Dr. Bernard Han, professor of business information systems, has been placed on the Fulbright Specialist Roster for three years. As a candidate on the Fulbright Specialist Roster, Han will be matched with projects designed by selected host institutions outside of the United States.

Han's application essay discussed his ability to share his academic expertise to help a host institution develop new curricula, offer workshops and seminars, and provide mentorship in research in the areas of health information technology and health care management.

"These activities will benefit my host institution in understanding how new curricula and health information technology can be used to improve higher education and help tackle issues for workflow integration to gain business process efficiency," says Han. "Health information technology for health care management is a growing area that continues to be in demand in business education, and I am honored to be able to expand my capabilities in this area by collaborating with other institutions." Read more

 

International students at WMU to share their culture 

The annual Japan Festival will be part of the 2017 festivities and will include free traditional food.November 7, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University will highlight various countries and cultures during its observance of International Education Week, set for Sunday through Monday, Nov. 12-20.

The 2017 observance kicks off with the Western World Cup soccer tournament and ends with Malaysian Night. In between, numerous events, all free or low-cost and open to the public, are being staged around WMU's Main Campus to educate and entertain. 

This year's week includes events during which attendees can test their knowledge of global trivia, see a traditional Japanese comedy performance, listen to an orchestra performance by refugee youth in the Kalamazoo community and experience the Caribbean way-of-life by way of the Dominican Republic.

The annual week is being organized by WMU's International Student Activities office in the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, with events hosted by University units and international student groups. A joint initiative of the U.S. departments of State and Education, International Education Week is nationally being observed Monday through Friday, Nov. 13-17. Read more

 

Fake news discussion to feature international, local panelists

Rawya Rageh, a senior crisis advisor for Amnesty International tasked with investigating war crimes and human rights abuses during crises. November 7, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A former journalist who now is a senior crisis advisor for Amnesty International will team up with four Western Michigan University-connected panelists Saturday, Nov. 11, for a discussion of fake news.

The event, "Fake News—Falsehoods and Bigotry and What Can Be Done," is set for 7 p.m. in the Bernhard Center's West Ballroom on WMU's Main Campus. Organized as a fundraiser, it is open to the public with a suggested donation of $10.

The discussion is part of the 2017 PeaceJam Slam, a daylong event for participating high school and college students that kicks off Great Lakes PeaceJam's new program year. This year's slam is focusing on the theme "Power To the Press: Watchdogs of Democracy" and will engage students in topics such as fake news, media analysis, independent and outlier voices, and youth participation.

The featured panelist will be Rawya Rageh, a senior crisis advisor for Amnesty International tasked with investigating war crimes and human rights abuses during crises. Her work with Amnesty International has included documenting violations in Syria and the Philippines, as well as the impact of President Trump's immigration-related executive order. Read more

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement Opportunities in November

International Education Week includes Japan Festival where the Japan Club offers traditional food and cultural activities to the public for free.November 1, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in November. Highlights include Día de los Muertos activities, opportunities to help international students practice conversational English, and various festivals and global lectures in celebration of International Education Week 2017. 

The month of November hosts International Education Week, a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education in efforts to promote programs that prepare U.S. Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn and exchange experiences. As a proud partner of International Education Week, WMU student groups, academic departments and units across campus come together to highlight the various countries and cultures present at the University. The WMU campus and greater community are invited to attend International Education Week events scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 12, through Friday, Nov. 17.  Read more.

 

Dynamic duo of authors to be featured in Gwen Frostic Reading Series

Dr. James W. RusselNovember 1, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A renowned poet and acclaimed novelist will be featured in the next installment of the fall 2017 Gwen Frostic Reading Series.

Gail Wronsky and Chuck Rosenthal will read from their works at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, in 157-159 Bernhard Center. The reading is free and open to the public. Read more.

 

Speaker to address ties between immigration, nafta

October 30, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. James W. Russell will be at Western Michigan University next month to give a talk that connects immigration and opposition to the North American Free Trade Agreement—NAFTA.

Russell, a lecturer in public policy at Portland State University, will speak on "Race, Politics and NAFTA" at noon Thursday, Nov. 2, in the Bernhard Center's North Ballroom. A light lunch will be available beginning at 11:45 a.m.

The event is free and open to the public. It is being presented by WMU's Lewis Walker Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnic Relations in collaboration with the University's Department of Sociology and Global and International Studies Program. Read more.

 

Russian Cultural Expo and Conference to Take place at WMU

Photo of a series of Russian Matryoshka dollsOctober 12, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The 100th anniversary of the fall of the Romanov dynasty and the 1917 Soviet Revolution will be recognized Saturday, Nov. 4, during a Russian Cultural Expo and Conference at Western Michigan University.

WMU's Department of English is hosting the free event from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on campus in Brown Hall. It is being co-sponsored by the Kalamazoo Russian Cultural Association, which is now holding the Kalamazoo Russian Festival every other year, with the next festival scheduled for fall 2018.

The Russian Cultural Expo and Conference will feature a series of lectures and presentations, as well as performance of a play and a reading from a novel set in 1917 Russia. Participants will include a variety of Russian scholars from WMU, Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University and Spring Arbor University, each highlighting Russian literature, politics, culture, history or sociology. Read more

 

Professors get $2.6 million to train English as second language learners

October 6, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In response to the exploding number of English language learners in Michigan, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of English Language Acquisition has awarded a $2.6 million grant to a team of Western Michigan University professors to boost professional development efforts for teachers working with English learners.

WMU is the only university in Michigan among this year's awardees to obtain funding. Read more.

 

Chinese Water Expert to address climate Changes as WMU visiting scholar

Dr. Xu ZongxueOctober 2, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—An expert on hydrology and water resources in China will assess the impact of climate change on those resources this week as a visiting scholar at Western Michigan University.

Dr. Xu Zongxue, distinguished professor and deputy dean of the College of Water Sciences at Beijing Normal University and director of the Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, will speak at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, in 2119 Wood Hall. His presentation, titled "Water Issues Under Climate Change: Opportunities and Challenges in China," is free and open to the public and is made possible by the WMU Visiting Scholars and Artists Program. Read more

 

festival Provides Chance to Explore Chinese and East Asian Culture

Chinese dance group performing a traditional Chinese dance in the WMU Recreation Center at the 2015 China FestivalOctober 2, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The fourth annual China Festival at Western Michigan University will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, in WMU's Student Recreation Center. The annual festival commemorates the tradition of the Chinese Moon Festival, which is celebrated in China in mid-autumn. WMU's event was established to promote Chinese studies programs on campus and to broaden the community's understanding about Chinese culture.

"China Festival is a place for community members to explore Chinese and East Asian Culture," says Dr. Ying Zeng, director of Asian initiatives for WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education and festival coordinator. "There is a trend that more and more people—non-Chinese—are interested in Chinese language and culture." Read more

 

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN OCTOBER

September 29, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in October. Highlights include the annual China Festival, the Western World Cup soccer tournament and various lectures on global topics. Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more

 

Three to Receive WMU's Distinguished Faculty Scholar Honors

September 28, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University will present its 2017 Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award to Drs. Thomas Gorczyca, Victor Cunrui Xiong and Ping Zhang.

The honor is the highest award WMU bestows on faculty members. It pays tribute to individuals whose work constitutes a significant body of achievement that is widely recognized within the national and international academic communities.

Gorczyca, Xiong and Zhang will be recognized during this year's academic convocation at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 6, in the Bernhard Center. The event also will feature WMU President Edward Montgomery's State of the University address and presentation of four other prestigious campuswide honors: Distinguished Service, Distinguished Teaching, Emerging Scholar and Annual Make a Difference awards. Read more

 

Students, Public invited to 2017 Study Abroad Fair

The 2017 WMU Study Abroad Fair is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27 starting at 11 a.m. in Sangren HallSeptember 18, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Information about making an overseas learning experience part of a degree program will be conveniently located in one place Wednesday, Sept. 27, when Western Michigan University holds its annual Study Abroad Fair.

The free event is set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Sangren Hall. Activities will be taking place on the Sangren Pedestrian Mall by the main entryway as well as in atrium area of the main-entryway lobby on the first-floor.

Fair attendees will have a chance to speak with WMU students who have studied and interned abroad, as well as with professors from the University who coordinate programs and courses around the globe. Read more

 

Speaker Series celebrates diversity, encourages cross-cultural interaction 

September 15, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's Real Talk Diversity Series begins Tuesday, Sept. 26, with a look at the life of a transgender American activist, and wraps up in April with a discussion on environmental racism, discrimination and socioeconomic neglect.

Sponsored by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, a total of seven topics at eight events are planned through Wednesday, April 11, that are free and open to the public. All events are held in the Trimpe Building Multicultural Center. Read more.

 

WMU DEDICATES SPACE HONORING THE MEMORY OF DALLAS RAUKER

Dallas Rauker, a senior from Lawton, who passed away in 2015 during a mountain hiking accident in Norway. Rauker had been studying abroad at Hogeschool Utrecht in the Netherlands and traveled to Norway during a break for a hiking expedition.September 18, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's integrated supply management program will dedicate a tutoring center in memory of Dallas Rauker, a senior from Lawton, who passed away in 2015 during a mountain hiking accident in Norway. Rauker had been studying abroad at Hogeschool Utrecht in the Netherlands and traveled to Norway during a break for a hiking expedition.

The space, which is located on the third floor of Schneider Hall, home of WMU's Haworth College of Business, bears Rauker's name and will offer tutoring assistance for students in integrated supply management—a challenging, top-ranked program that combines coursework from business and engineering. The center also will serve as a resource for students taking a variety of related courses, including business analytics, quality management, computer-aided design, computer information systems and others. Read more

 

wmu honored for diversity, inclusion efforts for fifth year in a row 

September 12, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Diversity and inclusion efforts underway at Western Michigan University helped it earn recognition for the fifth year in a row from a national publication that focuses on diversity in higher education.

WMU was one of 80 institutions from around the nation named an annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity—HEED—honoree by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. WMU has been honored by the publication each year since 2013.

"The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees—and best practices for both—continued leadership support for diversity, and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion," said Lenore Pearlstein, co-publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. "As we continue to see a record number of HEED Award applicants each year, nearly every school tells us they use the application itself as a tool to create new programs and to benchmark their accomplishments across campus. The process allows them to reflect on their successes and also determine where more work needs to be done. We also continue to raise the standards in selecting HEED institutions." Read more. 

 

numerous wmu events slated for hispanic heritage month

September 11, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A series of public events will be taking place at Western Michigan University this fall in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, including a 40th anniversary reception for "Alma Latina," a popular show on 102.1 WMUK-FM, WMU's public radio station.

The Division of Multicultural Affairs is sponsoring the events, all of which are free and most of which are being held on the WMU campus.

Kicking off the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration will be a free musical program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, on campus in the Bernhard Center on the Bronco Mall's Center Stage. This musical extravaganza is open to the public and being co-sponsored by WMU's Dominican Student Organization. Read more. 

 

Political economy of inequality examined during sichel series

September 10, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The political economy of inequality will take center stage in the coming months as the 2017-18 Werner Sichel Lecture Series unfolds at Western Michigan University.

With the theme "The Political Economy of Inequality: U.S. and Global Dimensions," the series kicks off on Sept. 13 with Dr. Teresa Ghilarducci, the Irene and Bernhard L. Schwartz Professor of Economic Analysis and director of the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis at the New School of Social Research in New York. Her topic is "The Political Economy of Retirement Time Inequality in the Organization for Economic-Cooperation and Development."

All Sichel presentations are from noon to 1:15 Wednesdays and include a light lunch reception after the lecture. The lectures are free and open to the public in 2028 Brown Hall. Read more. 

 

Gilman Scholarship winner seeks adventures abroad

September 7, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dennis Schneider, a senior at Western Michigan University, has packed a lot into his 21 years.

The Milford native has taken advantage of co-op opportunities at Detroit-based American Axle and participated in a five-day backpacking trip in Cuba as well as a WMU faculty-led engineering in China experience. He's also operated a painting company during the summer, run a half marathon, completed a triathlon, and founded a college council of the Knights of Columbus at the University.

Now, the adventurous industrial and entrepreneurial engineering student has a new achievement to add to the list.

Schneider is among about 1,000 of the nation's undergraduates to be awarded a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State to study abroad this fall semester. The highly competitive Gilman Scholarship is part of a larger government effort to expand the number of Americans studying and interning abroad, helping them gain skills critical to national security and prosperity.Read more. 

 

Kalamazoo's three college leaders make statement on daca

September 6, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—After U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced Sept. 5 that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals order—DACA—would end in six months, the leaders of Kalamazoo's three institutions of higher education collaborated on a message of support to DACA students and a call for a legislative solution to the issue. Read more. 

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in september

September 5, 2017 

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities in September. Highlights include a pop-up thrift shop and world bazaar, Chinese culture classes, a musical celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, and events and outings with international students. Read more.

 

Back-to-school events planned for new and returning students

August 24, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University's fall semester formally begins at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5, with the start of 2017-18 classes. But thousands of new and returning students will be on campus before then, settling in for a new semester, attending various events, and patronizing the WMU Bookstore and the Bernhard Center's Bronco Mall. Read more. 

 

area families needed to host international visitors

August 10, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—If your family enjoys meeting new people, exploring new cultures and introducing American culture to international visitors, consider becoming a host family.

Western Michigan University is seeking homestay opportunities for visiting international teachers and students arriving from Japan in August. A stipend of $450 a month will be paid to each hosting family for the duration of the guest's stay, which can range from four weeks to one year.

Host families will be assigned an international visitor and are required to provide them with a private bedroom and two meals daily—breakfast and dinner. The guest pays for all other personal expenses while in the United States. Read more. 

 

transformation dunn decade comes to a close

July 28, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The 10 transformational years of change led by Western Michigan University's eighth president, Dr. John M. Dunn, come to a close with the end of July, as the campus community offers a final round of thanks for what is now known as the Dunn Decade.

Dunn's successor, Dr. Edward B. Montgomery, will take the reins of WMU when he officially begins his tenure on Tuesday, Aug. 1. His selection as the ninth president was announced by the WMU Board of Trustees April 12 after a nationwide search.

Dunn announced last August that he would retire from the presidency at the end of June 2017. He agreed to stay on for an additional month until Montgomery's start date. Dunn will now begin a year of service as president emeritus, accepting special assignments from the board and assisting the new president in whatever initiatives he requests. Read more.

 

 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN AUGUST

July 24, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer a number of global engagement opportunities in August. Highlights include an International Ladies Sports Club, Garba Dancing Night, various art exhibits, and biking, blueberry picking and conversation circles with international students.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more. 

 

Portuguese scholar to lead wmu's international initiatives

July 14, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Portuguese political scientist with a long track record in international education has been appointed to lead Western Michigan University's Haenicke Institute for Global Education.

Dr. Paulo Zagalo-Melo, who served as associate provost for Global Century Education and director of the Global Engagement Office at the University of Montana, will take the reins of WMU's comprehensive international efforts on Sept. 1. His appointment as associate provost was announced by WMU Provost Timothy J. Greene. The appointment was made pending approval by the University's Board of Trustees. Read more.

 

dunn visits china and malaysia to celebrate partnerships

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Celebrations of both the newest and one of the oldest of Western Michigan University's international education partnerships served as bookends for an early July trip to Malaysia and China by Western Michigan University President John M. Dunn.

On July 5, in Malaysia, Dunn noted that WMU has welcomed students from that nation to WMU for more than 45 years, and the University was the first to formally partner with the Sunway Education Group when it launched Sunway College. Today, universities from around the globe are part of similar partnerships with Sunway, and WMU has more than 2,600 alumni in Malaysia.

The Friday, July 7, opening ceremony in China featured officials from the Chinese Ministry of Education and the Guizhou provincial government. The event celebrated an expansion of an agreement finalized in 2014 between GUFE and WMU that established a 3+1 joint program in accountancy. Under the agreement, GUFE students complete the first three years of their undergraduate accountancy program in China and the final year in the Haworth College of Business on WMU's main campus in Kalamazoo. Nearly 200 GUFE students are enrolled in that program. Read more. 

 

Three WMU Students receive gilman scholarship to study abroad

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Three Western Michigan University students are using a prestigious national scholarship to study overseas during the 2017 summer sessions through the Gilman International Scholarship Program.

Justin Black, of Detroit; Devin Moyer, of Constantine; and Marcos Santiago, of Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico, are among about 1,000 American undergraduate students to receive the Gilman Scholarship to study abroad.

The congressionally funded Gilman program supports study abroad by defraying such costs as tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance, and international airfare. It offers grants to students from across the United States; Washington, D.C.; and Puerto Rico. To be eligible, those American citizens must demonstrate high financial need. Read more. 

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement Opportunities in July

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the extended Kalamazoo community will offer a number of global engagement opportunities in July. Highlights include Chinese language and culture camps for local youth and conversation circles to help international students practice their English.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more.

 

Ethics Center offers three book club events for the fall semester

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Just in time for summer reading, the Western Michigan University Center for the Study of Ethics in Society has announced readings and discussions of three books dealing with hot-button ethical questions as part of book clubs during the fall semester.

Discussions of the three books begin Wednesday, Sept. 20, and continue through late November. The book clubs are open to the general public as well as the greater WMU community. Books are provided free of charge to the first 10 people who sign up via email to ethicscenter@wmich.eduTo participate, people must sign up no later than one week before the group's first meeting. Read more.

 

Institute is taking local high school students to china for summer camp

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A group of 10 local high school students will travel to China in July with the Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University for a language and culture summer camp.

The students and their Confucius Institute instructors will depart Monday, July 24, for a 12-day camp that includes visits to Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou, China. Participating are Kalamazoo Central and Loy Norrix high school students who have spent at least two semesters learning Mandarin. Mandarin courses are taught in these two Kalamazoo high schools by instructors from China whose appointments are facilitated by the Confucius Institute at WMU.

Summer camp participants will not only receive two weeks of Chinese language and cultural training, but also have ample opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom.

"Local students may have learned some Chinese in class, but they don't have the environment to use it in the local community," says Wenfang Sun, associate director of the Confucius Institute at WMU. "And, they may have some knowledge about Chinese culture, but they don't have the opportunity to experience it." Read more.

 

Chinese language and culture camps open to students age 8 to 16

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Local students age 8 to 16 can experience Chinese language and culture this summer by attending camps at Western Michigan University during the month of July.

Four one-week sessions are being offered this summer, and there are still some openings for the remaining two sessions, which take place July 10-14 and July 17-21. The cost is $100 for one session, or $180 for both of the remaining sessions.

During the camps, students:

  • Learn and practice the Mandarin language.
  • Play traditional Chinese games.
  • Watch Chinese movies.
  • Try their hand at Chinese paper cutting, calligraphy painting and the Chinese yo-yo.

The Summer Chinese language and culture camps are hosted by WMU's Confucius Institute and take place in Sangren Hall.

For more information about the camps, visit wmuconfucius.org/sc. Read more.

 

Student Organization awarded by world's largest human resources association

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Western Michigan University student chapter of the Society for Excellence in Human Resources has again received recognition from the Society for Human Resource Management.

The student organization was awarded the 2016-17 Merit Award designation for providing superior growth and development opportunities to its members. The WMU chapter is one of 327 across the United States and one of 149 recipients of this year’s Merit Award. Read more.

 

Dance students return from panama

June 1, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Twenty Western Michigan University students returned recently from a week-long volunteer trip to Panama, where they provided free dance classes to children who wouldn't otherwise have access to arts education.

This was the second year WMU students have participated in the nonprofit service program, Movement Exchange, which provides free, year-round dance classes at partner orphanages and at-risk youth foundations in Panama and the United States.

The student "dance diplomats" spent the week of May 7-14 dancing, learning and inspiring young people by taking and teaching classes with dance majors at the University of Panama, taking a contemporary/aerial dance class from a professional Panamanian dance company, and providing free dance education to children at Aldea SOS Orphanage in Panama City, Malambo Orphanage, Hogar de la Infancia, Fundación Danilo Perez, and the arts foundation, Danzarea. Read more.

 

new medieval book series could captivate public, scholars alike

May 30, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For those who agree with Shakespeare that "What's past is prologue," Western Michigan University has a new book series that may become popular with the public as well as academics.

WMU's Medieval Institute Publications has launched Past Imperfect, a new series of short-form books that focus on the Middle Ages, are written in scholarly yet edgy and accessible language, and are garnering broad acclaim. Read more. 

 

Physician to discuss how inequities impact health care

May 30, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich—A physician, advocate and author will connect racism and income inequality to health and well-being during a free, public talk at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 6, in downtown Kalamazoo.

The talk will be given by Dr. David A. Ansell, senior vice president of community health equity and associate provost for clinical affairs at the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

It will be held in the auditorium of the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. Free parking will be available in the adjacent Bronson Methodist Hospital lot at Portage and Lovell streets. Read more. 

 

take advantage of global engagement opportunities in june

May 25, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the Kalamazoo community will offer a number of global engagement opportunities during the month of June. Highlights include opportunities to help teach international students about local culture and attend globally focused art exhibits.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more. 

 

Faculty Senate approves design for general education revision

May 24, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Acting at its final meeting for the 2016-17 academic year, the Western Michigan University Faculty Senate approved a memorandum of action May 11, adopting a model to use in revising the University's general education curriculum.

By a four-to-one margin, senators approved a model for the new curriculum, setting the stage for implementation of the first significant change to WMU's general education offerings in 33 years. The new curriculum, named WMU Essential Studies at an earlier Senate meeting, is scheduled for use in the classroom for fall 2018. Read more. 

 

wmu faculty invited to submit south asia grant proposals

May 9, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University faculty members across disciplines are encouraged to apply for a fully funded curriculum training in India as well as a $2,500 honorarium to develop course material with a South Asia focus.

The awards are part of the Southwest Michigan Education Initiative on the East Indian Ocean being funded by a U.S. Department of Education grant.

They will allow four faculty recipients to travel to India Dec. 8-22 and receive curriculum training on South Asia in order to develop future course materials. The deadline to apply is May 31. To apply,visit wmich.edu/global/uisfl. Read more.

 

wmu congress puts focus of world's medieval scholars on kalamazoo

May 05, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For four days in May, some 3,000 of the world's leading scholars on all topics medieval will converge on the Western Michigan University campus for an annual meeting that has become the largest international gathering of its kind.

WMU's 52nd International Congress on Medieval Studies will take place Thursday, May 11, through Sunday, May 14. The event will feature more than 570 sessions in locations across the WMU campus. Presenters will be scholars from 47 states, the District of Columbia and 34 nations. They include faculty members, museum curators and independent scholars, ranging from faculty members at the U.S. Military Academy and Harvard to academics at the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of World History. Read more.

 

four finalists for associate provost to make public presentations

May 04, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Public presentations by four candidates for the post of Western Michigan University associate provost for the Haenicke Institute for Global Education begin Monday, May 8. The candidates will speak on the topic, "What is your vision for comprehensive global engagement at a large research university and WMU in particular?" Read more.

 

Take advantage of global engagement opportunities in may

April 26, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the Kalamazoo community will offer a number of global engagement opportunities during the month of May. Highlights include Chinese culture classes, the annual International Congress on Medieval Studies, and a wide variety of chances to enjoy international cuisine and music.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more. 

 

Experience chinese culture by taking a class this summer

April 24, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Confucius Institute at Western Michigan University is accepting registrations for nine summer Chinese culture courses that begin the week of Monday, May 8.

The multi-week, low-cost courses are open to members of the public of all ages. A half-price tuition discount is offered to those age 55 and older as well as WMU students, while tuition is free for WMU employees. Some courses charge all participants a fee for materials, and those with low enrollment may be canceled.

The Confucius Institute at WMU is a nonprofit organization designed to bring an authentic Chinese perspective to WMU and the Kalamazoo area. The institute offers culture classes during WMU's fall and spring semesters as well as the University's summer I session. Read more. 

 

Governor, honorary degree recipient highlight wmu commencement

April 24, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Two special guests will be part of the celebration Saturday, April 29, when Western Michigan University grants more than 2,600 degrees during graduation exercises in Miller Auditorium.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder will make remarks during WMU's 9 a.m. commencement ceremony, the first of the day's four scheduled ceremonies. Snyder, who has served as the state's governor since 2011, has made it a practice to speak during graduation exercises at a small number of Michigan colleges and universities each year.

In addition, Dr. Antonio R. Flores, president and chief executive officer of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from WMU during the final ceremony of the day at 7:30 p.m. Flores is a WMU alumnus with extensive ties to Michigan. Read more.

 

screening, performances set for world premiere of 'spirit moves'

April 14, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich. - A four-year collaborative project involving dance, theatre, and film and video students will take center stage during a multimedia screening and performance featuring West Afrikan dance Wednesday, April 19.

The audience will be treated to a screening of the first installment of the web-based documentary series, "The Spirit Moves with Us: Afrikan Dance in the Diaspora." The premiere, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. in 1025 Brown Hall, also will feature live dance performances by Heather Mitchell, Kama Mitchell and the Rootead Youth Dance Company, and Afrobeat dance performances by Brooklyn Washington and Oluchi Ebere. Events are sponsored by WMU's College of Arts and Sciences and School of Communication. Read more.

 

Wmu, k college grant to bolster asian language and culture classes

April 7, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $362,000 Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Grant to Western Michigan University and its consortium partner, Kalamazoo College.

The three-year grant will support a community-based education program called the Southwest Michigan Education Initiative on the East Indian Ocean. This program will enhance global, humanities-based education for students and faculty members and address a key language need expressed by West Michigan residents of South Asian and Southeast Asian descent. Read more. 

 

U.c.- Davis prof to focus on economic impact of immigration in sichel talk

April 6, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A scholar from the University of California at Davis will focus on the dollars and cents of immigration when he speaks in April at Western Michigan University as part of the Werner Sichel Lecture Series.

Dr. Giovanni Peri, professor and chair in the U.C.-Davis Department of Economics, will speak at noon Wednesday, April 19, in 2028 Brown Hall. His talk is titled "The Great Economic Potential of Immigration to the U.S." and is free and open to the public. A light lunch reception will be available after the lecture. Read more.

 

Living the arts in the libraries to take place in april

March 29, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Poetry readings, music, faculty talks, dance set to poetry, poetry translations, new books, choral works and more will be highlighted during Living the Arts in the Libraries events at Western Michigan University during the month of April.

For the third year, University Libraries will showcase the arts for three weeks, April 1-21, in events and exhibits during regular open hours at Waldo Library and the Zhang Legacy Collections Center. A collaboration with WMU arts and humanities groups across campus, many are short pop-up events that may last from five to 15 minutes. Read more.

 

Michigan state geographic bee to return to wmu's fetzer center

March 28, 2017

KALAMAZOO—For the 10th straight year, just over 100 young geography buffs from across the state will descend on Western Michigan University for the Michigan State Geographic Bee, testing their knowledge of the world while vying for a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Geographic Bee championship at National Geographic Society headquarters.

This year's event is Friday, March 31, and will bring the young semi-finalists from schools across the state and their families to the Fetzer Center's Kirsch Auditorium. This is the second level of the National Geographic Bee competition, now in its 29th year. Read more.

 

annual clark lecture, two other political talks offered at wmu

March 27, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A nationally recognized University of Florida scholar will visit the Western Michigan University campus this week as part of the Samuel I. Clark Lecture Series, while two other noted political scientists will deliver talks this week and next.

Dr. Ido Oren, chair and associate professor of political science at the University of Florida, will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 30, in 157-158 Bernhard Center. His presentation, titled "WMD, WMD, WMD: How the Incantation of Ambiguous Phrases Creates Foreign Threats," is free and open to the public. Read more. 

 

take advantage of global engagement opportunities in april

March 27, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities during the month of April. Highlights include the 28th annual International Festival, Japanese language courses for teens and a wide scope of globally focused lectures.

Opportunities to get globally engaged are published weekly at wmich.edu/global/events by WMU's Haenicke Institute for Global Education. Read more.

 

Some 700 to participate in César Chávez March

 March 27, 2017

 KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Some 700 students and members of the public are expected to participate in Kalamazoo's 23rd annual César Chávez March and program Thursday, March 30, from downtown Kalamazoo to the Bernhard Center on the Western Michigan University campus.

The march will begin at 9:30 a.m. with participants gathering at Bronson Park for a brief organizing session before marching to WMU. The public portion of the event will end with the march at about 10:30 a.m. This year's after-march program is by invitation only. Read more.

 

see the world on a budget at 28th international festival

March 23, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The music, dance, food and fashions of nearly two dozen cultures will be showcased during Western Michigan University's 28th annual International Festival from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 2, on campus on the second floor of the Bernhard Center.

First hosted in 1989, the popular event features cultural display tables, performances and a fashion show. Admission is free, and for a nominal fee, attendees may sample traditional foods prepared by international students in campus kitchens under the supervision of WMU Dining Services employees.

The International Festival annually attracts about 7,000 students and community members. Attendees are able to "travel" around the world in a single evening while gaining an appreciation for the diversity of cultures prevalent on campus. Read more.

 

5K walk to raise funds for clean water initiatives

March 23, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Registration is open for Walk for Water Kalamazoo 5K at Western Michigan University Saturday, April 8. The event at 1 p.m. by the fountains by Miller Auditorium aims to increase awareness of the worldwide lack of access to clean water and to raise funds to help Clean Water for the World in its efforts to provide water purification units to communities in developing countries without potable water. Read more.

 

Japanese lessons for teenagers available

March 20, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Beginning Japanese language lessons for teenagers are now available through the Soga Japan Center at Western Michigan University. The program is open to middle school and high school students.

The fee is $30 for three lessons, which will be held from 4 to 4:45 p.m. on three consecutive Fridays April 7, 14 and 21 in 2045 Brown Hall. No experience is necessary. Registration is required at wmich.edu/japancenter/events.

For more information, contact Michiko Yoshimoto at michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu or (269) 387-5874.

 

British author, adventurer to take wmu audience on a journey

March 20, 2017


KALAMAZOO, Mich.—British author and world traveler Victoria Finlay will take a local audience on an unusual journey to faraway places when she speaks later this month as part of the University Center for the Humanities spring series at Western Michigan University. 

Victoria Finlay, the author of three popular non-fiction books, will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 30, in 1910 Sangren Hall. Her presentation, titled "How to Travel Through the World's Paintbox," is free and open to the public. Read more. 

 

WMU's ming li among national diversity award honorees

March 17, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Dr. Ming Li, dean of the Western Michigan University College of Education and Human Development, is among 39 national higher education leaders honored this week by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education.

Li and his fellow recipients were honored with the magazine's 2017 Giving Back Award. The annual award program honors college and university administrators who go above and beyond their everyday leadership duties and "give back" to their campuses and communities. Li is featured, along with 38 other recipients, in the April 2017 Leadership Support and Giving Back issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity. Read more.

 

wmu to launch collegiate pathways program with forest hills public schools

March 13, 2017

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—On Thursday, March 2, Western Michigan University Extended University Programs entered into an agreement with Forest Hills Public Schools to launch the first-of-its-kind “Collegiate Pathways” program.

The dual enrollment program, set to launch in fall 2017 at Forest Hills Northern High School, allows students to earn the full Chinese language minor offered by WMU while still enrolled in high school. Dr. Edwin Martini, WMU associate dean for Extended University Programs, met with district officials at the WMU-Grand Rapids Beltline regional location to sign the contract and begin the rollout of logistics for next fall. Read more.

 

welcoming messages going up around campus

March 8, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—"Be proud," "Mi casa es su casa" and "You belong here" are just some of the messages people have been posting on select bulletin boards around Western Michigan University's campus for their fellow Broncos to see. The messages are part of an initiative University Libraries kicked off Feb. 27 that encourages students, faculty and staff to leave welcoming Post-it notes for members of WMU's diverse community. Read more. 

 

Stanford Names two wmu students as university innovation fellows

 March 1, 2017

 KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Two Western Michigan University students are among 224 nationally and internationally named University Innovation Fellows, a global program run by Stanford University that empowers student leaders to increase campus engagement with innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity and design thinking. 

Jill Puckett, a student majoring in advertising and promotion, with minors in general business and gender and women's studies, is from Marshall, while Nathan LaWarre, a student majoring in electrical engineering with a minor in environmental studies and sustainability, is from Saranac. They have just completed training to join the program. Read more.

 

WMU Student receives prestigious gilman award to study abroad

February 28, 2017             

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—A Western Michigan University student from Kalamazoo is using a prestigious national scholarship to study overseas this semester through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.

EnRico Montalvo, a senior with double majors in Spanish and exercise science, received a Gilman Scholarship to study in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Montalvo is among 926 undergraduate awardees out of more than 2,800 U.S. applicants to receive a Gilman Scholarship for the spring 2017 semester.

The Gilman program offers study abroad grants for undergraduate students who demonstrate high financial need. The congressionally funded program supports study abroad by defraying such costs as tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance, and international airfare.

The program has been successful in supporting students who have been historically underrepresented in education abroad, including first-generation college students, ethnic minority students, and students who have disabilities, are from U.S. states with low study abroad participation, and are studying in science, technology, engineering and mathematics—STEM—fields. Read more.

 

take advantage of global engagement opportunities in march

February 27, 2017             

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University and the Kalamazoo community will offer numerous global engagement opportunities during the month of March. Highlights include a Model United Nations conference for high school students, opportunities to teach international students about the area and a wide scope of globally focused lectures. Read more at WMU News or at WMU's Global Engagement site.

 

WMU hailed as a top producer of u.s. Fulbright scholars

February 21, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University is one of the nation's top producers of U.S. Fulbright Scholars, according to the U.S. Department of State's annual ranking of its flagship program, which was just published by the Chronicle of Higher Education.

With six WMU Fulbright Scholars awarded grants for 2016-17, the University is tied in 10th place as a top producer among the nation's research universities. The report was compiled by the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

"It's especially meaningful right now to be acknowledged for our success in producing Fulbright scholars," says WMU President John M. Dunn. "Global engagement has been central to this University's identity for decades, and at the same time our faculty members are active internationally, we have been host to record numbers of Fulbright students from other nations. As a campus and community, we're enjoying the best of both worlds."

Dr. Jane E. Blyth, interim associate provost of the University's Haenicke Institute for Global Education, attended a Fulbright reception in Washington, D.C., Feb. 21 honoring top Fulbright colleges and universities. Read more.

 

Professor Wins Prestigious Japanaese Literary Prize for Poetry

February 20, 2017

Dr. Jeffrey Angles, Western Michigan University professor of world languages and literatures, was honored during a formal ceremony in Tokyo Feb. 17 as the 2017 winner of the prestigious Yomiuri Prize for Literature in poetry.Angles won the prize—comparable to America's Pulitzer Prize—for his book of Japanese-language poetry "Watashi no hizukehenkōsen" ("My International Date Line"), which was published by Shichōsha in 2016.

The Yomiuri Prize for Literature, now in its 68th year, is given out in six categories each year: poetry, fiction, playwriting, criticism/biography, essays, and research/translation. All books published in the previous calendar year are considered for the award. Angles' book was, in the eyes of the judges, the best book of poetry published in Japan in 2016. Read more.

 

WMU Celebrates Research, Diversity and Global Engagement

Video of COMPILATION
February 14, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—"Spring Convocation: Recognition of Discovery, Diversity and Global Engagement" took place Friday, Feb. 17, at the Fetzer Center. The new annual spring gathering included events from Extended University Programs, Haenicke Institute for Global Education, Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Office of the Vice President for Research. They included scholar talks, professional development workshops, a recognition luncheon, and convocation and awards, followed by a Gold Gathering reception. 

Recipients for the Global Engagement Award included Dr. Zahir Quraeshi from the Haworth College of Business and Ms. Ann Ganz from WMU Study Abroad. Read more.

 

Take Advantage of Global Engagement Opportunities in February

January 26, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University will offer numerous global engagement opportunities during the month of February for members of the campus and surrounding communities. Highlights include a Japanese conversation table, opportunities to teach international students about the area and a wide scope of globally focused lectures. Read more at WMU News and WMU's Global Engagement site.

 

wmu welcomes over 100 international students at international student orientation and registration program

January 11, 2017

Western Michigan University welcomed 130 new international students to campus during the International Student Orientation and Registration Program on January 5 and 6 with even more students expected this semester. 

At ISORP, international students meet faculty, staff, and current students who assist in the transition to Kalamazoo and beginning studies at WMU. The information and guidance offered to students at ISORP varies from working through immigration details to exploring how to grocery shop in the United States. 

"This is a prime opportunity for WMU to support the students and give them a "safe landing" and a good launch in to their academic programs. They connect with other students especially when they realize that WMU has many other international students," said Juan Tavares, Director of International Admissions and Services at WMU. Read more about ISORP.

 

Take Advantage of global engagement opportunities this month

January 1, 2017

Western Michigan University will offer numerous global engagement opportunities this month for members of the campus and surrounding communities. Highlights include welcoming international students to campus through English-language practice and winter outings, exploring study abroad through short-term faculty-led programs, and the grand opening of the Global Lounge in the Bernhard Center on WMU's main campus. Read more at WMU News and WMU's Global Engagement site.

 

Chinese Partner university president visits wmu

WMU and GUFE OfficialsGuizhou University of Finance and Economics (GUFE) President Cai Shaohong visited Western Michigan University on August 18, meeting with WMU President Dunn, Provost Greene, and officials from the Haworth College of Business and the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. GUFE and WMU recently launched a joint 3+1 program, allowing students from GUFE to transfer to WMU and earn a BBA in Accountancy. Currently, nearly 100 students are enrolled in the program at GUFE and are expected to transfer to WMU in fall of 2018. Additional joint programs are currently under development. President Cai was accompanied by Chang Mingming, Dean of the School of Economics, Zhou Xingang, Board Chairman of the School of Management Science, Zhang Yuqian, Executive Associate Dean of the International School, and Chen Yumei, Executive Associate Dean of the School of Cultural Communication & Law. GUFE is located in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou province in southwestern China.

Free Japanese Language Lessons

A series of free, beginner Japanese language lessons are being offered on three consecutive Fridays in July beginning July 8 in WMU's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Open to the public; no experience necessary. To register, contact the Soga Japan Center at (269) 387-5874 or michiko.yoshimoto@wmich.edu. Flier.

Area families needed to host visiting international teachers, students

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—If your family enjoys meeting new people, exploring new cultures and introducing American culture to international visitors, consider becoming a host family. Read more at WMU News.

Partner visits and an alumni reunion focus of recent delegation in Japan

WMU delegation at Japan universityKALAMAZOO, Mich.—Haenicke Institute Executive Director Jane Blyth and CELCIS Director Tom Marks returned June 14 from a nine-day trip to Japan to visit the following WMU partners: St. Margaret’s Junior College, Nihon University, Musashino University, the University of Tokyo, Aichi Prefectural University, Ritsumeikan University, Doshisha University, and Kyoto Notre Dame University. Blyth and Marks also attended an alumni reunion in Tokyo hosted by the Kalamazoo-Kai, a WMU alumni organization. Dr. Steve Covell, WMU professor of comparative religion, and students enrolled in WMU's Japan Religion and Culture study abroad course also participated in the reunion and gave a short presentation on what they had learned while in Japan. Blyth and Marks also gave several presentations to prospective students and faculty, from whom they received very positive responses about WMU. Photo gallery.

New Broncos from Papua-Indonesia

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—WMU’s Center for English Language and Culture for International Students welcomed 40 new Broncos to campus on June 11 from Papua-Indonesia! The cohort will study English this summer and some will enroll in University programs as early as fall semester. Group photo.

Chicago meetings bolster international partnerships

Associate Provost Wolfgang Schlor with an official from Education Malaysia USA

Haenicke Institute Associate Provost Wolfgang Schlӧr visited the Education Malaysia Chicago office in Evanston, Ill. on Friday, June 10. He met with Director Azimah Binti Aziz to discuss ‪WMU‬'s Malaysian student population, opportunities for expanded student exchange between Malaysia and WMU, and current as well as potential partnerships with Malaysian universities. Currently, 46 Malaysian students are enrolled at WMU. Education Malaysia, previously known as Malaysia Students Department was a department established by the Government of Malaysia to manage the welfare of Malaysian students studying abroad. As time passed, Education Malaysia is now becoming a one stop center for all inquiries concerning Malaysia education, and hence, aligned with the expansion of its functions.

Schlӧr also visited the Consulate General of Brazil in Chicago, Ill., where he met with Consul General Paulo Camargo, Deputy Consul Marianne Martins Guimares, and Education Assistant Janaina Bertao Solomos. Schlӧr discussed WMU's strong record in hosting students through Brazil's Scientific Mobility Program, as well as WMU's emerging institutional partnerships in the country.

WMU professor co-develops first world religions course at partner institution

Dr. Brian WilsonDr. Brian Wilson, WMU comparative religion professor and recipient of a Fulbright Senior Specialist award, recently spent six weeks at Sunway University in Malaysia to co-develop the first-ever world religions course to be offered at Western University’s long-time institutional partner. We learned about his project in this interview. Read more.

 

 

 

 

Fulbright Fellow lands senior adviser position in Azerbaijan's education ministry

Orxan Abbasov, WMU Fulbright Fellow alumni, in AzerbejianOrxan Abbasov, a Fulbright Fellow who attended Western Michigan University from 2012 to 2014, was recently named senior advisor in the Ministry of Education in his home country—the Republic of Azerbaijan. He is currently working on implementation of a national strategy to develop education in rural, remote areas of Azerbaijan. Read more.

 

 

65 higher Education institutions participate in
9th International Conference on African Development

Participants in the 9th ICADA very successful 9th International Conference on African Development was held May 27-29, 2016 in Ethiopia at Addis Ababa University College of Business and Economics, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Adama Science and Technology University, and Arsi University. Themed on “Challenges and Opportunities for Good Governance and Leadership for Sustainable Development of African States,” the conference attracted scholars and researchers from 65 universities and research institutes representing 20 countries. A broad range of topics were covered in three keynote presentations and through the 70 papers presented in the conference’s 20 plenary sessions. Read more.

 

 

Historical novelist snags Light Center research grant

Dr. Victor Xiong

Dr. Victor Xiong is the recipient of the fifth annual Timothy Light Center for Chinese Studies Research grant. He will receive $3,000 to support three projects currently underway. Xiong, a professor

 of history, will use the award to promote a historical novel he recently published, to publish a monograph, and to help cover production costs of a forthcoming historical novel. Read more.

 

 

WMU officials visits UN to talk about international education

Western Michigan University's president and the University's chief international education official have been invited to United Nations headquarters in New York City to speak during a Friday, May 6, session focused on educational opportunities for young people in the Arab World. Read more at WMU News.

27th International Festival attracts thousands

Western Michigan University's premier multi-cultural celebration, International Festival, attracted more than 5,000 campus and community members to the Bernhard Center on Sunday, April 3, to celebrate the rich diversity international students bring to campus. Some videos and photos are accessible on the International Student Activities Facebook page and via the social media icons in the left column of this webpage. Thank you to the 135+ student volunteers, to the staff at the Bernhard Center, Dining Services, and the WMU Department of Public Safety for helping International Student Activities and the Campus Activities Board host a very successful 27th International Festival at WMU. Photo gallery.