June 2020 WMU News

Bronco Bash goes virtual

Determined to foster community and connections, Western Michigan University's Office of Student Engagement is reimagining Bronco Bash 2020. To ensure the health and safety of participants and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the event will be held virtually instead of in person.

WMU researchers creating national database of religious response to COVID-19

Research underway at Western Michigan University will create a national archive of religious response to the pandemic. Funded by a University COVID-19 response grant, the project will also fuel the development of relevant coursework for students at WMU and other colleges and high schools across the country. 

Parents can empower kids by discussing race, racism early and often

As some do with other taboo topics of conversation, parents are now looking for resources and guidance on discussing issues of race and racism with their children. While it can be uncomfortable and daunting, ignoring the issues—especially with young kids—could be even more detrimental. Drs. Candy McCorkle, Regena Nelson and Glinda Rawls discuss how parents can approach the subject in age-appropriate ways.

Arts and Sciences dean named a distinguished woman in higher education

The Michigan American Council on Education Network has recognized Dr. Carla Koretsky, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, as a distinguished woman in higher education leadership. This annual award is given to those who have distinguished themselves by providing outstanding leadership to women in their institutions, in their profession and in society at large.

Unmasking the stigma surrounding face coverings

Drs. Fritz Allhoff and Wayne Fuqua discuss the reasons mask-wearing messages related to COVID-19 have been met with pushback in the United States and what it might take for more people to choose to wear face coverings.

WMU now has rapid-result COVID-19 testing

Active COVID-19 antigen testing that offers results within 15 minutes is now available at WMU's Sindecuse Health Center. Though symptomatic individuals are prioritized, members of the WMU, Kalamazoo College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College communities can get tested whether they have symptoms of the virus or not.