Celebration planned for 2024 Experience-Driven Learning Grant awardees

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University students don't wait to go out and change the world; they excel in opportunities to put what they're learning into practice. The institution is ramping up the impact of experiential education with the new Experience-Driven Learning Grant program.

The University will celebrate the inaugural cohort of Experience-Driven Learning Grant recipients on Tuesday, April 9, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the WMU Student Center ballroom with brief remarks followed by a reception and opportunity to speak with project team members.

Comprising collaborators from a diverse array of disciplines representing nearly every academic college, the 22 faculty-led projects will create or grow programs to enhance students' educational experience and help them further cultivate the skills, knowledge and confidence they will need to help lead our world after graduation.

"We will continue to set Western apart with high-quality, transformative learning opportunities that prepare students with a holistic perspective," WMU President Edward Montgomery says. "These projects will amplify Western's already formidable strength in applied education, enriching our students' learning and preparing them for their professional pursuits."

Projects range in topic from innovation and emerging technologies to community building and service-learning. Students will have opportunities to run a purpose-driven coffee company, explore artificial intelligence platforms to build in-demand skills, engage in expanded undergraduate research programs and gain experience in public health and teaching careers, among many other opportunities.

"I know from my own experience that working across disciplines provides an opportunity to see things from angles one might not usually get to see. The more minds come together, the more expansive the possibilities become," says Jacklyn Brickman, assistant professor of kinetic imaging, who is a co-collaborator on the IDEAS Collaboratory—a project that will engage students in scientific research and the creation of art.

Ninety-three percent of Western students participate in experience-driven learning before graduation—from internships and co-ops to service-learning, undergraduate research and capstone projects. The Experience-Driven Learning Grants aim to increase accessibility so that all students participate in experiential learning in alignment with the University's Strategic Plan.

"These transformative experiences are in our DNA," says Montgomery. 

Each project received between $5,000 and $50,000, supported by investments from the Empowering Futures Gift, Office of the President, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, University Advancement, Office for Business and Finance and Division of Student Affairs.

Learn more about all of the Experience-Driven Learning Grant projects online.

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