October 2025 Newsletter

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and WMU President Russ Kavalhuna celebrating Sleeping Giant Capital

Historic $100M fund launched by WMU faculty to pioneer place-based investment and Experience-Driven Learning

Led by WMU faculty members Dr. Doug Lepisto and Dr. Derrick McIver, Sleeping Giant Capital recently announced its second fund, with over $100M in commitment capital to acquire and grow West Michigan businesses. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and WMU President Russ Kavalhuna were on hand to applaud the effort, which connects private investment capital, training of aspiring owner-operators and student talent in WMU Haworth’s leadership and business strategy program, creating financial returns for investors, new pathways for entrepreneurship and immersive learning for undergraduates.

Food Marketing Hub grand opening celebration

Western Michigan University opens new food marketing hub with $500,000 gift from Meijer

WMU announced a $500,000 donation from Meijer at the grand opening event for the new food marketing hub, which will benefit food marketing students, faculty and industry partners. Located in Schneider Hall, the 2,000 square foot space is an innovative learning spot in the Haworth College of Business with flexible, collaborative work stations that can be used to hold classes or student organization events. The space also houses technology to advance category management skills and allow host companies to train students on crucial food industry needs.

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