February 2024 WMU News

HR student Victoria Loikits finds her passion in impacting others

As she prepares to graduate in spring 2024, Victoria Loikits says she is  grateful for the self-discovery opportunities she encountered at the WMU Haworth College of Business. It is because of the opportunities available to her that she has found such success early on in her career.

Adjunct jazz professor Duane Davis wins prestigious Ellis Marsalis, Jr. Educator of the Year Award

Duane Davis, who has been part of the Irving S. Gilmore School of Music for over 30 years, was lauded for his immense contributions to jazz education.

Internships, student organizations and more: Keaton Peyser is soaking up all he can at WMU Haworth

The WMU Haworth College of Business student  is currently working as a supply chain intern at Parker Aerospace where he is responsible for performing ad-hoc analysis to support the production planning team and reducing on-hand inventory.

Grad student knows the rewards of studying abroad at WMU

Since Francisco Viana de Sousa Santos began his graduate degree at WMU Haworth, the intricacies of his chosen field are starting to come together and form a solid, coherent skill set that he can use throughout his future career in finance.

Western students roll out 'Wild Wheels' for wheelchair users to express themselves

The wheel enhancement covers are available to purchase during the Kalamazoo Art Hop March 1-3 at The Spirit of Kalamazoo downtown.

WMU public health, Unified clinics faculty forge ahead with experiential learning grants

The grants include two that are focused on programs at the WMU Unified Clinics, which is home to eight separate clinics led by faculty from the College of Health and Human Services.

Grow Your Own student applies literacy skills in elementary school

Funded by the Michigan Department of Education, Grow Your Own supports 80 school districts in the state by providing school employees seeking initial certification or additional endorsements with a tuition-free education.

Event management alum brings first-of-its-kind tater tot festival to Grand Rapids

Kendall Soto, an event management graduate, is a general manager of the team organizing this unique festival on Saturday, May 4.

CEHD faculty awarded three WMU grants to enhance experiential learning programs

College of Education and Human Development faculty secured grants to launch and enhance experiential learning programs, known for connecting classroom knowledge to real-world application.

WMU center receives highest level of accreditation

WMU's Center for Disability Services and Adult Wellness Programs received three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

Sport management alum finds success with Indiana Pacers

Alumnus Tony Bellissimo is creating memorable experiences for fans through the game of basketball.

From climate change to food waste, WMU mechanical engineering student brings her ideas to life

Whether addressing climate change or the food waste crisis, designing for fashion shows, or pursuing a degree and career in a challenging engineering field, Renee Cilluffo has found opportunities to succeed in all these endeavors right on WMU’s campus. 

Not just an act: Theatre professor takes center stage

All the world’s a stage, and theatre assistant professor Kate Thomsen is making the most of it, teaching courses while also starring in a hit comedy written and directed by famed actor Jeff Daniels.

Alumni classnotes, winter 2024

From book publications and retirements to prestigious awards and appointments, Western recognizes alumni achievements and announcements submitted during winter 2024.

In Memoriam, winter 2024

Western alumni and emeriti who passed away and were reported during winter 2024.

‘Movement is medicine’: Changing the fitness mindset

As you settle into a cozy nook with your favorite beverage, mood lighting and tunes or your favorite show, you might not expect your next move to be a workout. “Integrating movement into daily habits is a subtle yet effective way to foster a more active lifestyle," says Dr. Timothy Michael, professor of exercise science.

Propelling the next generation of engineers: WALI gives students a shot at space exploration

The Western Aerospace Launch Initiative (WALI) is preparing more than a satellite to launch into space. Engineering students of all levels are also getting incredible career experience.

Why I Give: Barry Zurell Roberts

“I couldn’t have completed my degree without financial assistance … so my hope with this gift is to ensure that more students like me receive the resources they need to graduate. WMU was integral to my life and I’m grateful I can help the University continue its mission.” —Barry Z. Roberts, BS ‘84

Doctoral student launches new program to support justice-involved

The newest classroom for WMU students is not where you may suspect: inside the Lakeland Correctional Facility. A doctoral student is harnessing the transformative power of higher education for the incarcerated.

Women who rise from the waters—and an author’s rising acclaim

"The Waters" weaves a narrative that draws inspiration from the women in Bonnie Joe Campbell's life, and it clearly captivates readers as it's earned recognition as one of Oprah's most-anticipated books of 2024 and secured a coveted spot on a TODAY show book club.

Western's own rocket man turns sci-fi dreams into reality

From developing asteroid-mining technology to supporting space travel, Greg Neff has a resume that’s out of this world.

WMU Department of Public Safety retains highly prized accreditation distinction

WMU DPS met the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission's (MLEAC) "best practice" standards to achieve accreditation.

Accounting student grows with the WMU Haworth community

Jake Passinault is making everyday count at Western by taking his education in stride as he prepares to enter the professional accounting world. With support from the Haworth College of Business faculty, Passinault is exceling as he masters the use of spreadsheets and prepares for his future endeavors. 

WMU department changes name to World Religions and Cultures

After over 50 years as Western Michigan University’s Department of Comparative Religion, the department has a new name that reflects its diverse course offerings: the Department of World Religions and Cultures.

Students empowered to erase stigma, embrace self care during Mental Health Week

Mental Health Week runs Feb. 19-23 and will include activities focused on helping students relax and get acquainted with mental health resources across campus.

Western joins Michigan universities in collaborative to spur innovation across state

The Michigan University Innovation Capital Fund and Consortium aims to drive economic development by supporting cutting-edge research and technology transfer from Western and other public universities across the state.

WMU faculty secure grant to create curriculum on media, news literacy for state libraries

The project for WMU's Amy Bocko and Sue Ellen Christian is one of 31 selected for funding through the Institute of Museums and Library Services' Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program.

Foundation awards $70,000 to WMU clinic for pediatric hearing initiatives

The funding will be used to bridge the gap to provide children with accessible, comprehensive early diagnostic and rehabilitative services that may otherwise be cost prohibitive.

Zagalo-Melo named president-elect of Association of International Education Administrators

Dr. Paulo Zagalo-Melo's leadership term extends from February 2024 to February 2027.

WMU business college once again secures gold standard in accreditation

The Haworth College of Business received a renewal of its accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. Less than 6% of business schools worldwide have obtained AACSB accreditation—and WMU Haworth is one of them, making it an excellent choice for students seeking quality education that is a good investment of their tuition dollars.