2024 WMU News

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.

Some campus services on reduced hours during spring recess 2024

Faculty, staff, students and the public are encouraged to call ahead to make sure a particular office is open. Daylight saving time begins Sunday, March 10; classes resume beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 11.

Moving into the next phase for voice-activated technology accessibility

In 2022, Dr. Hope Gerlach-Houck was part of an interdisciplinary group of researchers from Michigan State University that first received funding for the project to make voice-activated AI more accessible to those who stutter or have other speech differences. They recently learned that they have received an additional $5 million award to continue the next phase of their work over the next three years.

TIME ranks Western as a ‘Best College for Future Leaders’

According to TIME, an elite diploma signals at least two things to prospective employers: survival of a difficult admissions process and a high likelihood of intelligence. For many companies, hiring from these institutions is also an investment in pre-vetted talent and established connections. 

Luke Thelen’s career looks 'pitcher' perfect

Luke Thelen is taking the accounting field by storm. Originally from Caledonia, Michigan, the graduate student in accountancy at Western Michigan University is following his passions for numbers and baseball and is sure to be a team player, on and off the field.

International MBA student finds dual-enrollment program the key to her success

Seethal Albert is embracing the unknown during her time at Western Michigan University. Originally from India, Albert is an international student in her second year of the MBA dual-enrollment program between Christ University, Bangalore, and the WMU Haworth College of Business, using her love of business to drive her to success.

Black mason broke barriers, laid first building blocks for learning at Western

Dr. Karika Parker, B.A.'02, M.A.'07, Ph.D.'22, a postdoctoral fellow with the Lewis Walker Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnic Relations, uncovered the lead role Albert White played in constructing Heritage Hall and considers it her "life's work ... to make sure everybody knows (his work) and to celebrate him even beyond Black History Month."

Dunbar Hall to open with innovative learning, technology at center of complete redesign

A grand reopening event is set for Thursday, April 25, at 1:30 p.m. and will include a rededication ceremony followed by a reception, performances by the College of Fine Arts Jazz Combo and guided tours led by student ambassadors from the colleges of Arts and Sciences and Fine Arts.

Humor and a whole host of animals: WMU expert explains what to watch for in Super Bowl ads

Roughly 125 million viewers are expected to tune in to Super Bowl LVIII. WMU executive-in-residence in advertising and promotion Greg Gerfen tells us we can expect "humor and a whole host of animals, celebrities and superstars" in commercials during the big game.

Marketing, mobility and memories: Marco Azzopardi is making the most of his time at WMU

Through his internships and academic experiences, Western sophomore Marco Azzopardi has a jumpstart on a career in sales.

History made: Merze Tate College, Black women leaders honor Tate's legacy

In 1927, Merze Tate became the first Black student to earn a bachelor’s degree from WMU. She went on to become a scholar, world traveler, journalist, author and advisor to world leaders.

Ethics lectures topics range from loving strangers to AI policy

Western's ethics talks during spring semester are all free and open to the public.

Graduate student endeavors for social change through communication

For Western Michigan University graduate student Daniel Ebo, studying communication wasn’t always the plan — in fact, it just so happened to be the best chance he ever took.  Now, Ebo is delving into communication-based research, focusing on the impact of social media on social change by exploring the relationship between news organizations' tweets and the actions taken by audiences in response.

WMU celebrates upgraded fashion labs and technology

The upgraded labs feature technology to make students more proficient and introduce them to digital print making.

WMU professor’s research shows social connection leads to success in health goals

What if you could harness the power of social media platforms to help you reach your goals? Dr. Jiahe (Carrie) Song, associate professor of business information systems at Western Michigan University, has recently published research that delves into this question, with interesting applications for both consumers and health care providers.

WMU provost again named among top 200 education scholars in the nation

Provost Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig has consistently appeared for over a decade on the prestigious list, which positions him within the top 200 university-based scholars nationwide who have influenced educational practice and policy over the past year.

Mentors and memberships: Becoming an engineer and a leader

Finding and becoming a mentor while studying to become an industrial engineer, Western student Rachel Millett has taken on leadership roles on campus and is ready to start her career in a field experiencing explosive growth.

Ethics Center announces book clubs for spring 2024

Selections highlight ethical questions regarding body size, plagiarism, cancel culture and the place of the virtues in living a good life. All discussions take place in person on Western Michigan University’s Main Campus.

New graduate certificate will hone skills to navigate successful organizational transformation

Launching fall 2024, the certificate caters to both online and hybrid learners, empowering them with the skills and knowledge to navigate and lead successful organizational transformation.

Delia Dohm’s curiosity guides her to success as the first WMU student in new co-op program

Delia Dohm, a supply chain management student at Western’s Haworth College of Business, had the opportunity to intern with Perrigo through a new co-op program at WMU. As the first student to go through the program, Dohm has had a unique educational journey while also obtaining valuable work experience.

Spring 2024 career fairs connect Western students with hundreds of employers

The biggest spring event is the annual spring Career Fair in February, which focuses on those seeking employment in such areas as aviation, business, health care, integrated supply chain management, IT and liberal arts.

WMU board to welcome new trustees, elect leadership Thursday

Appointed to the University's governing board by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer earlier month, James L. Liggins Jr. of Kalamazoo and Kara Wood of Grand Rapids will be taking the oath of office.

WMU closes until 10 a.m. for icy conditions

Classes will have a delayed start at 10 a.m. Any class that starts before 10 a.m. is canceled.

Mallinson Institute for Science Education celebrates 20 years of global scientific literacy

The Mallinson Institute for Science Education at Western in 2023 marked a significant milestone as the institute celebrated its 20th anniversary, a testament to its dedication in shaping the future of scientific fields worldwide.

Fort St. Joseph celebrates 25 years of archeological education

As the Fort St. Joseph Archaeological Project passes its 25th year, the work isn't just about unearthing artifacts; it's about the people behind the discoveries and the enduring impact on both history and lives.

International grad student takes big steps in the right direction

Hellen Yaa Agbevey is taking her first steps toward professional success. Originally from Ghana, Africa, Agbevey is a graduate student in WMU Haworth’s Master of Science in Finance program and on her way to achieving her goal of becoming a financial analyst.

CEHD students explore India through interdisciplinary study abroad

This immersive program offered firsthand cultural experiences through visits to schools, nonprofits and Fortune 500 companies across the country.