College names business career center director

KALAMAZOO—Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business has announced the appointment of Geralyn Heystek as director of business career services, replacing Linda Ickes, who retired earlier this year.

In her new role, Heystek will lead the strategic planning for the career center, including the development of goals and objectives, employer partnerships and counseling services for students. She also will provide oversight of all operations, working with faculty and staff to ensure high-quality career services for the college.

"Geralyn's experience in student academic and career advising, along with her expertise in managing internships and our business externship program, will ensure the Haworth College of Business Career Center continues to meet the needs of not only our students, but also our employer partners and the regional community," says Dr. Christina Stamper, associate dean of undergraduate programs.

Heystek started her career at WMU as an instructor in the Department of Marketing before joining the staff full-time as an academic advisor in 1998. As an academic advisor, Heystek developed expertise in study abroad opportunities and internships. In 2009, she joined the career center as a career advisor, working with students to explore career pathways and make career-related decisions, and providing resume, cover letter and interview preparation guidance.

Geralyn Heystek

Heystek was part of the team that developed and launched WMU's acclaimed business externship program. Along with the career advising team, Heystek has presented on the success of the business externship program at several national conferences, and she works with groups around the country interested in launching similar programs.

She is certified to administer and interpret the MBTI Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory assessments and has completed the Global Career Development Certification and the Strong Interest Inventory Certification. She is pursuing her e-teaching endorsement and her MBTI master practitioner certification.

Heystek is a member of National Academic Advising Association, Michigan Educator and Employer Alliance, National Career Development Association and American Counseling Association.

For more information about the business career center, visit wmich.edu/business/career.