Two WMU students awarded National Grocers Association Foundation scholarships

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The National Grocers Association Foundation has supported Western Michigan University students for many years, giving them the opportunities and tools needed to pursue a career in the food marketing industry. This year is no exception, with the NGA Foundation granting scholarships to two students from the Haworth College of Business—Benjamin Famiano and Matt Wyand.

Meet the recipients

Famiano, of Portage, Michigan, is one of five scholars who received the $2,000 Asparagus Club Scholarship. He is dual majoring in food and consumer package goods marketing and leadership and business strategy. In addition, he is the marketing director for the Business Association of Mentors and Business Influencers Organization, and a member of the Food Marketing Association.

Outside of academics and his campus involvements, Famiano is gaining industry experience through a deli and bakery internship with SpartanNash. He is thankful for his professors, who inspired and guided him to apply for the scholarship.

“I was completely shocked to receive this award,” he says. “This scholarship will provide the funds I need to finish my final year off strong.” 

Wyand was presented with the $2,500 Asparagus Club, Thomas K. Zaucha Scholarship. This award is presented annually to one student with postgraduate plans in the grocery industry. Wyand, of Crown Point, Indiana, is pursuing a degree in food and consumer package goods marketing with a minor in leadership and business strategy.

His campus involvements include serving as a member of the Food Marketing Association. He has also completed two merchandising internships with Hy-Vee and Meijer. In addition, Wyand was a competitor in the 2020 NGA Student Case Competition in San Diego where Western placed first against 13 other universities.

He recognized his professors, Dr. Russell Zwanka and Bob Samples, for playing important roles in his success.

“I was beyond thankful to receive this scholarship,” Wyand says. “Students from all over the country apply, and the process is very competitive. Receiving this scholarship removes a large portion of the financial burden associated with college."

National Grocers Association Foundation

The NGA Foundation seeks to position the industry as an employer of choice for college students and is committed to supporting students planning careers with independent grocers. Since 1990, NGA and its affiliates have awarded over $1 million in scholarships providing the critical resources needed to invest in future leaders. 

For more information about WMU food and consumer package goods marketing, visit the program online.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.