2024 WMU News

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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. 

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.

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

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

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.

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.

“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

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.

"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.

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

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

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.