Alumni News

Western Express 5/24/13
Western Michigan University news and update highlights from around the web for May 17 - 23, 2013. This week's campus photo

Outstanding Leadership
Michael Nienhuis (BS '09, Mechanical Engineering; MS '12, Mechanical Engineering) has been honored with the SAE International

Western Express 5/17/13
Western Michigan University news and update highlights from around the web for May 10 - 16, 2013. This week's photo features

Best of the Best
Michael Debs (BBA '80, Accountancy) loves to the solve the problems that pop up during any average day. Accounting can be

Rising Star
After leaving from WMU, Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller (BBA '03, Finance) was elected shareholder at Sommers Schwartz, P.C. in Southfield, MICH.—where she is the youngest elected shareholder in the firm.

Community Health Chair
Rev. Dr. Michael C.R. Nabors (BS '82, English), senior pastor of Detroit’s New Calvary Baptist Church since 1997, has been appointed Gateway Community Health’s (GCH) Board Chairman

Western Express 5/10/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for May 3 - May 9, 2013. This week's photo features the alumni relations

Business Intelligence
Matt Mace (BBA '98, Computer Information Systems) has been identified as one of the Top 40 Business Leaders Under 40 in West

Amazing Race Winners!
In late January, the Battaglia brothers embarked on an unlikely journey– in the CBS hit series The Amazing Race

Western Express 5/3/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for April 26 - May 2, 2013. This week's campus photo features

A Celebration of Life
In late April, members of the Kalamazoo Community gathered to remember a WMU alumna. Anastasia Schauer's (BSN '09, Nursing)

MyWMU Digest Vol. VII
The photo features (left to right) Bill MacMillan (BS '67, History), Detroit Tiger's President Dave Dombrowski (BBA '79, Accountancy), and Jim Karagon (BA '67, History; MA '73, History) at the Detroit Tigers minor league vs. WMU Broncos baseball game in Lakeland, Florida on March 5, 2013

Western Express 4/26/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for April 19-25, 2013. This week's campus photo features Read Fieldhouse, the site of the Spring 2013 Commencement Ceremonies—Saturday, April 27. Read Fieldhouse, or the Herbert 'Buck' Read Fieldhouse was constructed in 1957 and is roughly

Organize Anything
Chris Nylen (BBA '85, Marketing) knew he wanted to do something other than work in the banking industry, and the the idea finally came to him as he prepared for his MBA. He only ended up taking one class—the class that taught him how to develop a website for his organization and storage business

They 'Can'
Andrew McLean (BA '05, Media Studies) and his partner Scott Richards are launching a new company—the first of its kind in the state

Broadway Director
David Alpert (BA '06, Theatre Studies) has been working on an impressive resume since leaving WMU, most recently serving as an associate director for The Trip to Bountiful. The Broadway show opens April 23 and features a star-studded cast including Cicely Tyson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Vanessa Williams

Western Express 4/19/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for April 12-18, 2013. This week's campus photo features

Engineering Excellence
Eaton, a global technology leader, has announced that in addition to an $8,000 gift to student engineering teams, several employees will personally mentor the Sunseeker solar race team, the Formula SAE team, and the SAE Baja team. All three teams design and develop vehicles to compete against other colleges

First Pitch
Katie Eberling (BS '11, Early Childhood Education) had an opportunity most people dream about last weekend

Economic Expert
Shalom Williams (MA ’05, Applied Economics) works for the Bureau of Labor Statistics as an economist— he is also the national

Western Express 4/12/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for April 5 - April 11, 2013. This week's campus photo features the clock tower on Kanley Memorial Chapel. At night, the tower is illuminated. Completed in 1953, the chapel was made possible by a gift from the William Kanley Estate

Helios Solar
"I'm most proud of the fact that we're able to build economically viable solar installations for our community," said Josh Cook

Western Express 4/5/2013
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for March 29 - April 4, 2013. The above photo features the WMU seal, which was adopted in 1957 when WMU officially became a University. WMU art professor John Kemper sketched out the seal on the back of his

Xoma CEO, Bronco
John Varian (BBA '80, Accountancy; Lee Honors College) decided to transition to the biomedical field because he wanted to do

Western Express 3/29/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for March 22- 28, 2013. The above image features a collection

Vintage 60's Broncos
“We had no idea back in the late 60s when we started connecting that we would still be doing so 50 years later,” said Ann McMinn. Every two years they gather somewhere, usually in the Midwest, to catch up, share memories, and have fun. The Vintage 60’s Broncos have been celebrating reunions, officially, since 1977

A Powerful Mission
Jeanne Powers is committing to something big. Beginning May 11, she will embark on a 3,415 mile journey— cycling all the way from

Western Express 3/22/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for March 15 - March 21, 2013. The photograph above features the historic marker in front of The Oaklands, near the heart of West Campus. Originally constructed as a private residence, the Oaklands became a residence for WMU

Alumna, son, in D.C.
Ann Gaudard Weeby (BBA '06, Marketing), along with her 7-week-old son traveled to Washington, D.C. this week to campaign for

Jennings Says Goodbye
Greg Jennings said farewell to the Packers in a full page ad thanking fans for their support during the seven seasons he spent

Directing March Madness
March Madness kicks off March 19 and at the helm of everything—is a Bronco. Ron English (BA '77, Communication Arts & Sciences) is the Director of the Division I Men's Basketball Championship. When people think about March Madness, they know that sometime in mid-March they'll be filling out brackets in anticipation

Gagne Honored by CCHA
Wayne Gagne (BS '87, Physical Education) is one of 12 players selected for the CCHA's All-Time First Team. In honor of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association's final season, top performers were chosen from across all 42 seasons as part of their 'Celebrate the Legacy' initiative

Western Express 3/15/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for March 8 - March 13, 2013. This week's photo features

Welcome Back!
WMU welcomes an alumnus back to campus— Christopher Tremblay has been named WMU's associate provost for enrollment

Another "Big Loser"
Jeff Nichols (BBA '10, Sales & Business Marketing) will appear in the final episode of The Biggest Loser on Monday, March 18.

Western Express 3/8/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web for March 1 - 7, 2013. The above photograph was taken inside

MyWMU Digest Vol. VI
Another Batch of Bronco updates and news. See what your fellow Alumni are up to and share your own story

Share your Benefit!

The MyWMU Concierge Card offers benefits and services to card holders— do you have a benefit or service to add?

Welcome Home
Soldiers in the 507th Engineer Battalion of the Michigan Army National Guard, including several Western Michigan University ROTC alumni, will return to Kalamazoo from Afghanistan Saturday, March 9. Community and campus members are encouraged to greet them at 3:30 p.m. at Portage Northern High School

Western Express 3/1/13
Western Michigan University News and Updates from around the web for February 22 - 28, 2013. The above photograph is a view of

Western Express 2/22/13
Western Michigan University news and updates from around the web, February 14 - 21. The first MyWMU Winter Carnival and Special Olympics Polar Plunge brought students and community together on Saturday, February 16. Click on the link in this post to view photos of the carnival and some very brave plunge participants

Alumni Only
Workster and Quicken Loans are hosting a career expo in Detroit on Friday, March 1 and only the alumni of several universities

Emerging Leader
Acumen Fund, a pioneering nonprofit global venture firm is working to change the way the world tackles poverty by investing in social enterprises, emerging leaders and breakthrough ideas. Recently, 20 young professionals from Pakistan were chosen by the fund for their dedication to transforming Pakistan into a poverty free society

Psychology Expert
Sara Van Wormer (BS '98, Psychology) is yet another Bronco chosen by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder to sit on a state board

In the Bay Region?
The Great Lakes Bay Region! A group of dedicated alumni in your area want you to join them. (Pictured left to right)

Alumni Advocate
John Knowles (BA '03, Comparative Politics) has recently become the new executive director for development and alumni relations at Florida's first law school, Stetson University College of Law. Knowles has also served as a WMU Alumni Association Board Director for seven years. In early 2011, Gulfshore Life magazine

Compassionate Developer
Jim Farnsworth is an oil man—but don't start picturing stereotypes. Farnsworth is the President and COO of Cobalt International Energy

A Different Kind of Trilogy
"I've always had a strong passion for storytelling," says Dominic Riggio. "At a very young age, I was fascinated how still pictures on a comic book page could transform into a vivid movie in the reader's mind. I still have that childlike appreciation for the art form today. One day in 2010, while driving to a meeting, the story came to me

Women on the Move
Betsy Sundalius was recently recognized by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers with a ‘Women in Manufacturing STEP’ Award

Seeking New Directors
The Western Michigan University Alumni Association Board of Directors is seeking new members for a three-year term (beginning July 1, 2013 and ending June 30, 2016).

New Legacies
When the relative of a WMU Alumni makes the decision to attend WMU, it is a major compliment to the University— and a legacy. That is why the WMU Alumni Association established the Legacy Scholarship, intended only for the children, grandchildren, stepchildren, step-grandchildren, and siblings of WMU alumni. The scholarship awards $1000 to first time enrolled Broncos (entering WMU in the Fall only).

This year, the board will select up to 100 recipients from the pool of applicants. The deadline to apply for a Legacy Scholarship is Friday, February 24.

Get Wicked
Wicked is coming back to Western this Spring, and Concierge Card holders (as well as WMU Faculty and Staff) have the opportunity to snag some tickets before they go on sale to the public. Wicked arrives Wednesday, April 24—the final performance at WMU will be Sunday, May 5

Outsourcing is In
Jamar Cobb-Dennard graduated from WMU only ten years ago, but he's already made a name for himself. The Indianapolis Business Journal named Cobb-Dennard one of their 2013 Forty under 40. He is the owner of Outsourced Sales Force, a company he started after hearing about the same challenge from

Memory Maker
Bob Sasena (BBA '80, Marketing) is an independent sales representative for Jostens Memory Books. This month, he will receive

Amazing Race Brothers
Does the name Anthony Battaglia ring a bell? He played Hockey at WMU from 1998-02— but in February Battaglia and his brother, Bates, will appear as a team on the 22nd season of CBS's The Amazing Race. Anthony spent a season with the Kalamazoo Wings in 2008-09 and is currently on the roster for the Huntsville Havoc

Connecting Community
Katie Brisson (BA '94, Sociology) has been named Vice President, Program, at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan

A Leader in Dignity
Lloyd Dean (BS '72, Sociology; MA '78, Educational Leadership) is CEO of San Francisco-based Dignity Health. He's friendly with the President of the United States—and with the President of the San Francisco Giants. He is responsible for a complete fiscal turnaround of his company, sits on the board of Wells Fargo—and

Success and Safe Water
Wendell Christoff is owner and vice chairman of Litehouse Foods, a successful dressing company in the Grand Rapids area that boasts

Going to the Super Bowl!
In less than two weeks the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers will go head to head in the Super Bowl. In case you're feeling a little left out, fear not, for as WMU Athletics has pointed out—there are many Bronco ties in Super Bowl XLVII. Most notably, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh

A Secret to Success
Bud Brian (BA '66, English) loves to work with people and grow businesses. That's why he decided to re-enter the business world after

She's at it Again!
"The Doritos Crash the Super Bowl Contest is the biggest commercial contest there is. Having the chance to have my work air in the Super Bowl for more than 100 million people is a life-changing opportunity. It's awesome that Doritos enables young filmmakers to have a chance to show their work on the biggest stage there is..."

Promoting Art
Emily Holtrop was recently appointed to the role of Museum Division Director-Elect for the National Art Education Association

Chill Out (and Warm Up)
WMU is adding a little excitement to the long, cold winter months. The Office of Development and Alumni Relations is planning the first ever MyWMU Winter Carnival for February 16. All events will take place near Goldsworth Valley Pond and the Intramural Sports Fields on WMU's west campus

MyWMU Digest Vol. V
Another great batch of Bronco updates and comments in the newest MyWMU Digest post. Read about Dr. Thomas A. Burkman, Carissa Marks, Thomas McKee, Jan Scales, and Darren Timmeney. Do you have a story or memory you'd like to share with your fellow alumni? Click here to submit it to us, and don't forget to share a photo as well!

Boerma Joins WMU
Scott Boerma (BM '86, Music Education) is joining WMU in his 'dream job.' The new Director of Bands will be responsible for all

OtterBox Making Rank
OtterBox is the #1 selling case for smartphones—and it's a great place to work according to FORTUNE Magazine. The company was ranked the 7th best place to work in the United States on the Great Places to Work annual 2012 Best Small & Medium Workplaces list. It isn't the first time OtterBox has been ranked

Rhodes—Almost
In November, Mitch Zajac (BS '12, Mechanical Engineering) had an exciting month. In case you don't recognize the name, here's a reminder. Zajac was a linebacker on the Bronco Football team for four years

Business Students on Top in D.C.
While most students were still enjoying a break from academics in between semesters, a team of WMU students took the top spot at a national competition in Washington D.C.—and helped at-risk youth at the same time. Nine advertising and promotion students from the Haworth College of Business competed in the EdVenture Partners’

Sportuality
Jeanne Hess (MA '85, Physical Education), who coaches volleyball at Kalamazoo College, is author of the new book Sportuality

2012: A Year in Review

2012 was full of exciting moments—a great year to be a Bronco. Throughout the year we are grateful to those who have helped make our progress possible. We are deeply thankful and extend to you our best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year.

Hercules on Joffrey
Bob Hercules (BA '79) has a new documentary film— Joffrey: Mavericks of the American Dance, and it will air on PBS American Masters

New Football Coach is Limitless
Western Michigan University announced its 15th football coach on Tuesday—the youngest coach in the FBS. P.J. Fleck's coaching approach has been described as having limitless energy, limitless possibility, limitless passion, limitless enthusiasm, limitless drive, limitless achievement, and limitless opportunity

December 2012 Commencement
Some 1,900 Western Michigan University students made the transition to Alumni status during three commencement ceremonies on Saturday, December 15. In total, 1,931 students received degrees. 1,445 at the bachelor's level, 447 at the master's level, one at the specialist level, and 38 at the doctoral level

Mr. & Mrs. Mullett
Clare and Pat Mullett are another great Bronco couple. After graduating from WMU, Clare went to work for Uniroyal and became manager

On the Great Wall
Julie Royal-Ferris and Scott Ferris recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary—on the Great Wall of China, rocking their Bronco

East Hall to Become New Alumni Center
With the proposed private development of Western Michigan University's historic East Campus at an official standstill, WMU officials have decided to focus all preservation efforts on renovating the institution's birthplace, East Hall, making it an alumni center that will once again put the building into play as a central part of campus life

Warm Wishes from Business Broncos
The Haworth College of Business decided to say Happy Holidays in a special way this year, with a video featuring Business Broncos from near and far. The video card includes Broncos from Michigan to all the way down under, future leaders, future Broncos, and many more

Bringing Light
A three-minute film about a tiny molecule that lights up brain tumors so neurosurgeons can better distinguish cancer from normal tissue

NationaLease VP
M. Jeffrey Spence (BS '96, Economics) has been appointed the Vice President of National Accounts at the largest full service

Fashion on Campus
The co-founders of one of downtown Kalamazoo's most popular retail stores for women's clothing will be the next presenters at WMU's Entrepreneurship forum—and one of them is a Bronco. Patti Reinholt and Susan Terranella-Hoffman (BBA '02, Marketing), co-founders of Cakes Boutique

A Therapist and Novelist
Catherine Richmond is an Occupational Therapist, and a published novelist. She began writing her first book in 1991, and is currently working on her third. Her first novel was published after she won a contest with Thomas Nelson, a Christian books publisher. 'Spring for Susannah'

Leaders at Breakfast
Two local leaders with the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency will be the speakers for the Keystone Community Bank

Bigelow & Hoekje Memories
We asked you to share your memories of life at Hoekje and Bigelow. Read through the stories below and then share your own story

Thank You!
Happy Thanksgiving to all of our Broncos and Friends! Near or far, your pride and dedication to Western Michigan University help to continue a great legacy on campus. Watch this year's Thank You video to see what some of our best Bronco students are thankful for this season

Fighting for Child Advocacy
Dannielle Kostrab-Boyd (MSW '99, Social Work) Child Advocate Center program coordinator at Sexual Assault Services of Calhoun County (SAS) is the recipient of the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence’s ‘2012 Seedling Award.

Noteworthy Achievements

Meritor, Inc. is a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets and they have just honored a WMU Alumnus with a lifetime achievement award.

Air Force Coach
After spending 12 seasons as a student-athlete and coach at WMU, Jake Moreland (BBA '00, Marketing) has been named the new tight ends coach at Air Force.

Hoekje & Bigelow to Close
When students move out of Hoekje and Bigelow Halls at the end of the Spring semester, the doors will close for good. Both residence

Outstanding Leader
Diana Hernández (BA '85, Communication; MA '05, Family and Consumer Sciences), Western Michigan University's director of the Division of Multicultural Affairs, was one of five from Michigan to receive an outstanding Hispanic leader award

MyWMU Digest Vol. IV
More great updates and stories from Broncos just like you—from PE teachers to assistant principals and a new union president, Broncos are on the move

WIDR Turns 60!
WIDR celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. Radio has changed a lot over the years, but somethings remain consistent, one of them: WIDR at WMU

In Search of New Brews
Fred Crudder is beverage director for Taco Mac, a restaurant with over 25 locations across three states. Tacos? Maybe. Beer, sports, and chicken wings? Definitely. Recently, Crudder was featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for his 'unusual job,' which is to seek out

Pursuing the Dream
Joshua Weiner (BA '99, Communication Studies) is the co-writer and co-producer of 'High Road,' a character-driven film with some

Executive Chef — at School
Shaun Robinson (BS '97; MS '05) loves his job, and he's great at it too. As an Executive Chef for Chartwells at Kalamazoo Public Schools, Robinson is responsible for a number of tasks. "I train staff on culinary and safety skills to implement our menu and ensure it is executed properly. I am also in charge of

Technology All Star
Tonya Noble (BS '96, Electrical Engineering) is an Senior Engineering Manager at Boeing's Defense Services, and her accomplishments in this position recently put her in the spotlight. The Lee Honors College Graduate and Alumni Association Board Member received the Technology All-Star Award

30 Years Later
In July, Susan Stapleton, Dean of Graduate Studies, was contacted by a graduation auditor about former student and alumna

Mainline Energy Consultants
Estes Parker (BS '06, Mechanical Engineering) and Dan Baggiani (BS '07, Civil Engineering) are co-founders of an energy consulting firm in Pennsylvania. They founded the firm in 2011 after working in the industry for several years. "We were having many difficulties being able to offer the type of services

2012 WMU Ornament

Sailor of the Year
Greg Gaylor (BS '05, Aviation Flight Science) instructed flight for WMU's College of Aviation, but in early November, he was honored at the Annual USO "Spirit of the USO Award" Gala. EOD2 (EWS) Gregory F. Gaylor is attached to EODMU Three, Naval Base San Diego, California. EOD2 stands for Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Up in the Air
Ken Dombrowski has had just about every job in the airline industry, from fueling to flight attending, flying, and now managing a shuttle

On Jeopardy
If you missed Stephanie Jass (PhD, American History) mastering the buzzer on the T.V. Game Show Jeopardy on Monday night, tune in on Tuesday (October 9) to see if she can do it again. Jass actually competed in late July, but her first episode aired on Monday October 8

Alumni of Distinction
During Homecoming weekend, many alumni were honored by their respective colleges, but two alumni were honored with the

Homecoming #89
Homecoming #89 is Saturday and as usual—there's plenty going on. Get pumped up for Homecoming Saturday at Friday night's Downtown Pep Rally. At the conclusion of Kalamazoo's Art Hop, the Bronco Marching Band, cheer and dance teams, and the WMU Football Team will march the length

Michigan Sports Hall of Fame
WMU Athletic Director Kathy Beauregard (MA '81, Athletic Administration) will be honored with the prestigious Gerald R. Ford Award by the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. Previous recipients of the award include Mike and Marian Illitch, Peter Karmanos, and Dennis Archer (BS '65, Special Education) among others

Holistic Health Turns 30
The Holistic Health Care Program at WMU was one of the first programs of its kind in the nation—established in 1982. Since then the

WMUsic Spectacular!
A showcase of talent from WMU's internationally recognized music program will perform for the benefit of Student Scholarships on

Three Musketeers Take Over!
The Three Musketeers are taking over campus mid-October, and the swash-buckling swordplay is not to be missed! The student production begins October 11 and runs through October 21 at Shaw Theatre

Getting the Most?
Among the many benefits and services associated with the Concierge Card is an alumni rate discount for home and auto insurance with Liberty Mutual

SpeechHero
SpeechHero is an iPad app that allows children with Autism, Down syndrome, or Asperger syndrome to communicate more effectively. The alternative, augmented communication devices, are often thousands of dollar—or more—and require special training or certification. As a student at WMU, Aynna Lloyd

A Global Gathering
In late September, the Fetzer Institute hosted an international event in Assisi, Italy—The Global Gathering— which brought together over 500 thought leaders and Advisory Council Members from around the world. The purpose of the gathering was to address compelling questions related to the power of love and forgiveness in the world

Zhang Collections Center
In mid September, WMU Leadership gathered at the site of what will become the structure that houses the archives and regional

A New Tradition
The ultimate pre-game Bronco party, the Corral Entertainment Village, is back for its second year. This Saturday, September 22, join us at 10 a.m. (four hours before kick-off) at the Robert J. Bobb Stadium for live music, great food, and Bronco fun. The kid's area will feature free carnival games including a bouncy obstacle course

Outstanding Principal
Derek Wheaton has been named Michigan's 2012 National Distinguished Educator by the National Association of Elementary Principals

A Creative Voice, Found
Mary Hatch (BS '70, Secondary Education- Art; MA '72, Painting) taught briefly—three years to be exact—helping students to find their creative voice. She's also taught classes at Kellogg Community College and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Although she felt well prepared for teaching, she returned to the studio to focus

Our Brewing Company
Dane Sexton (BBA '98, Food Marketing) has built a financial planning practice at Morgan Stanley for the last 14 years, but he's about to embark on a long-time dream… to open a Micro-Brew Pub. Our Brewing Company is slated to open in late October, but the idea has been around much longer

Making WMU Mobile
"This was a great real-life work experience for me," said Lance Danzy, Computer Science major. Danzy is among a handful of students

Archer to be Honored
Dennis Archer (BS '65, Special Ed; WMU Board of Trustees; WMU Distinguished Alumni-1982) was honored in mid-September during a sold-out gala for a lifetime of work as an advocate for the benefits of diversity. The gala will be held in New York City at the Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall

It's All About Networking
Johnson Controls has a program called Blue Sky Involve—which encourages employees to reach out to non-profits or other groups with leadership development. Employees may apply once a year with an organization in mind, and the organizations selected receive $1000. Good news for the College of Aviation

School Leader
Eugene Thompson is currently the vice chair of the Arizona Early Childhood Development and Health Board (First Things First)

A Minute with Scott Puckett
Scott Puckett took a minute to talk a little bit about his Bronco Family, Bronco Pride, and the development of WMU’s Mobile App

MyWMU Digest Vol. III
Read about the most recent Bronco updates, and don't forget to share your own story below. Updates from Darren Kecskes, Sarah Leese, Carrie Pickett-Erway, Tom Vance, Keith G. Vandenbussche, and Stacey VanLeeuwen.

Homecoming #89
Homecoming #89 is Saturday, October 6. This year the Broncos will take on the University of Massachusetts at 2 p.m. but there's plenty to keep you occupied before kick-off

Discovering Mystery
Ronald Sharp is the first-ever winner of the Discover Mystery™ Award, sponsored by Poisoned Pen Press, for No Regrets, No Remorse

Vote for Miss ISOC
Katie Fricker has worked successfully in the printing industry since graduation, while continuing her passion for snowmobile racing

The Broncos Stampede on Wednesday
5 years ago, a group of Grand Rapids-based Bronco alumni began a tradition of ringing in the new school year and football season with a modest party. The event has slowly grown into a can't-miss pep rally, complete with with free food, drinks, and transportation for all.

A Pilgrimage to Bermuda
In early June, Jeffrey S. Johnson departed for the Islands of Bermuda on a voyage to present the government of Bermuda with a Bronze

A New Dean
Dan J. Martin (BA '76, Communication; Music Theatre Performance) now has the prestigious distinction of being able to call himself

HireStarts— Two Business Broncos
Chase Bonhag (BBA '12, Sales & Business Marketing) and his friend, Tyler Bailey—currently a film student at WMU— founded HireStarts in the fall of 2011. It is an online social network, currently free of charge, designed to connect employees with students who are looking for entry-level jobs or internships

Crews — Back in the News
Terry Crews is back in the News— and he's been busy. Since the former Bronco football star played the boot camp Instructor in Bridesmaids, Crews has starred in The Expendables 2 and scored a spot on the new HBO series The Newsroom. Crews is also in talks to develop a spin off of the movie Idiocracy

40 in 40
Title IX is 40 years old—the legislation created equality for women's sports in academic environments. In the last 40 years, participation from women in athletics has risen, and attitudes about women in sports have changed. To commemorate the landmark changes that began 40 years ago, the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics is

Proud Broncos
Patricia Fresard (BBA '79) studied Advertising and Promotion at Western Michigan University, but after leaving she went on to be elected

mophie on Campus
mophie(™), the portable-power trailblazer and developer of the globally renowned juice pack for smartphones—most notably the iPhone—announced the exciting expansion of its facilities to Western Michigan University's Business Technology and Research Park

Humanitarian Broncos
Four Broncos recently returned from Oditel, Uganda. Although the humanitarian trip was not organized by WMU, all four Broncos had a great time talking with villagers about WMU

Future Air Traffic Controllers
Western Michigan University is one of only 36 schools in the country—the only one in Michigan—to participate with the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AC-CTI). The program allows Aviation majors to get a jump start on careers as Air Traffic Controllers. Four recent Alumni of the College of Aviation

BioHealth Innovations
Scott Dagenais (BBA '78, Accountancy), Senior Vice President and Regional President Baltimore for M&T Bank Corporation, has been named to the BioHealth Innovation, Inc. Board of Directors

MyWMU Digest Vol. II
More great updates from more great Broncos! Promotions, Bronco Love, and Special Honors for Broncos who graduated from 54 all the way 2011

The Mallinson Legacy
This fall, the nation’s largest doctoral program for science education will reach its 10-year anniversary—the George G. Mallinson Institute for Science Education offers graduate and doctoral degrees at WMU. The Mallinsons established the science education graduate program in the 1960’s and

Remembering a Friend
The group of friends met their first year at WMU in Garneau/ Harvey Halls of Valley II. In their second year, they all lived on the same floor of Valley I. Throughout their years at WMU, they lived close to each other—that proximity remains although some of the friends have moved across the country, and across the Atlantic

25 Years, 11 WMU Degrees
The team at LVM Capital has 12 employees—and 11 degrees from Western Michigan University. Headquartered in Portage (Michigan), LVM Capital is an independent wealth counsel and financial management firm. Founded in 1988 by Russ Leonard and Craig VanderMolen (MBA ’79), the firm has evolved from

Hosting an Event?

If you're hosting an Alumni event, we can help you by putting it on the MyWMU.com Calendar of Events

Experience & Exposure
The Lee Honors College has established a set of new "courses" revolving around a simple concept—student learning through exposure and experience. The Study in the States program offers students in the LHC the opportunity to experience a set of diverse activities for the cost of a three credit-hour course

Be An Ambassador
An ambassador is someone who represents or promotes a specific activity. As an Alum of Western Michigan University, you have the opportunity to do just that for your Alma Mater

Best Brief
Attorney General Bill Schuette announced the Attorney General's Solicitor General Office received the National Association of

Olympic Connections
Mary Lobbestael is responsible for BMW's entire promotional portfolio—including development and execution of BMW's Olympic partnership

Sportsmanship Award
The 2012 Solar Race has come to a close with WMU in eighth place, just 8 minutes after the winner. The Bronco team also captured the event's annual Sportsmanship Award

Military Broncos
This husband and wife have a touching story, but one that is not unique to our time in history. Ryan (BA '10, Political Science) and Ashley met

Moku Hanga
The Georgia Review is recognized as one of America's premier journals for arts and letters. The Summer issue includes a series of woodblock

LaughFest Director
Joanne Roehm (BA '04, Music; MPA '10, Non-Profit Leadership & Administration) is involved with some funny stuff. She was recently appointed

VP of Development
Liza Keckler (BA '98, Broadcast & Video Production) has been named the Vice President of Development for Screaming Flea Productions, Inc. in Seattle

In the Times
If you watch the Showtime comedy Episodes, you may have noticed Kathleen Rose Perkins (BFA '95, Music Theatre Performance) as

Deputy Surgeon General
Major General Richard A. Stone (BS '73, Biology) is currently serving as Deputy Surgeon General for the United States Army

Vote for Pete
The Washington Redskins turn 80 years old this year, and to celebrate, the team is expanding their list of 70 greatest players to 80

Bronco Ninja
Jacob Siler recently appeared on American Ninja Warrior, a television program that boasts the toughest obstacle course in the World

Little Star Broncos
Little Star Center is an organization based in Indiana that provides structured, sensory-friendly facilities where children with autism receive individualized therapeutic intervention. In 2011, the Autism Society of Indiana honored Little Star Center with an Excellence in Direct Care Award. It's no surprise that

Automotive Pioneer
David McKee began his tenure with Ford Motor Company as an industrial psychologist developing psychometric techniques

Dancing Funny Man
Matt Baker (BFA ’08, Dance) was recently interviewed by Dance Spirit Magazine to talk about KEIGWIN + COMPANY (K + C), a

Lance Corporal Ongiyo
Douglas O. Ongiyo (BS '08, Aeronautical Engineering) had the ability to pursue a career in engineering when he graduated, but instead, he

Jet Packing
Flying cars and jet packs used to be a thing of the future—well, ladies and gentlemen, the future has arrived. In 2001

Award Winning Alumni
Recently, several Bronco Alumni have been recognized for outstanding accomplishments in their every day lives. Congratulations to James Grepling, Melinda Moustakis, Taylor Smith, and Joanne duBois Sweedyk

President Dunn Visits Malaysia
President John M. and Linda Dunn traveled to Malaysia in June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of a partnership between WMU and Sunway College near Kuala Lumpur. Over the years, this partnership has resulted in hundreds of international students at WMU, and changed the face

Therapeutic Writing
In 2006, Rachel Eagly had a beautiful baby boy, a good job, and no intention of writing a children’s story. However, one incident changed

Patriotic Broncos
Lest We Forget is a nonprofit organization that strives to encourage patriotic behavior in the Berrien Spring community—and it was founded by Broncos. Alumnus, Don Alsbro (BA ’63, Social Science & Specialist of Education ’79) spearheaded the movement that grew into Lest We Forget.

Bronco Dads and Kids

Broncos on the Green
WMU junior and Bronco women’s golfer, Melissa Beurmann, is following in her father’s footsteps in more ways than one.

Jennings is "On Par"
The 5th Annual Greg Jennings Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament took place in early June at the Kalamazoo Country Club

In The Spotlight
If you watched the Tony Awards Sunday night, you may have noticed Godspell star and WMU alumna, Hannah Elless (BFA '09, Musical Theatre Performance), in the spotlight for a moment. In a special performance by the cast of Godspell, you can see Elless choosing none other

Hollywood Bronco
While attending WMU, Shannon Kane was a Gilmore Scholar for Dance, so we already know she's talented, but now

In the Land of Elephants
In Kandy, Sri Lanka there is a festival called the Esala Perahera that dates back at least 600 years—and a Bronco has captured it

BuildOn: A Movement
Marc Friedman (BBA ’82, Marketing) is Chief Operating Officer (COO) and co-founder of buildOn – an international nonprofit that focuses on building schools in developing countries across the world and helping at-risk youth in the U.S. connect with volunteer service opportunities.

Showcasing Bronco Talent
This year, the Walmart Annual Shareholders Meeting featured the talents of several Broncos in their global celebration.

Hockey Alum on Team USA
Jerry Kuhn (BBA ’11, Management) did great things in his Bronco hockey uniform. In the 2010-2011 season he helped WMU reach the CCHA Champtionship for the first time since 1986 and made 35 saves in the NCAA Midwest Regional Semifinal.

Taking a Bite
Richelle Mead (M.A. ’01, Comparative Religion) has staked her claim to the immortal race with her six-part “Vampire Academy” saga.

Providing Unlimited Care
Greg Kirk (BS ’02, Physical Education) is the president of Fitness Therapy Unlimited (FTU) – a rehabilitation program that focuses on the whole body, not just the physical injury. Fitness Therapy Unlimited is based on health and wellness and less on clinical settings.

Normal Railroad
One of the most iconic images associated with Western Michigan University is the trolley

ROTC Grad Top in Nation
Recent Western Michigan University ROTC graduate, Lt. Justin Soeder (B.S. ’12, Electrical Engineering) is receiving the Major Gen. Robert E. Sadler USAF Award.

Capital Internship Reunion
Alumni of the Capital Internship Program gathered on May 30 at the Boji Tower in downtown Lansing to celebrate the program's impact during the last 35 years. As of spring 2012, internship coordinator and former Political Science Department chairperson Dr. Dave Houghton has helped more than 880 students

Bronco Books & Summer Reads
Summer is here, and it’s time to sit back, relax, and open up a good book. There are a lot of Bronco Authors out there, so we put together a list of some great Bronco reads. Academic, thriller, college preparation, whatever you’re looking for, these reads are sure to be interesting

MyWMU Minute: Margean Gladysz
Margean Gladysz is a great Bronco. Aside from being the first female to graduate from the Industrial Engineering Program at WMU, she has been a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors for eight years, traveling from New Jersey for bi-annual meetings

MyWMU Digest Vol. I
Broncos are always on the move, and always have something interesting to say—read about updates, achievements, and more in the current MyWMU Digest

Gridiron Great
Bronco Football great and Detroit Lions tight end Tony Scheffler has been honored as an unsung hero by the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund

An All-American Girl
Many of us may have seen ‘A League of Their Own,’ the hit movie about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL)—a league

Help Howard Celebrate his 100th
Howard Chapel (BS '37) may not be WMU's oldest living alum, but he's certainly passing a major milestone on Saturday. Chapel will turn 100 years old—in the same year he celebrates the 75th anniversary of his graduation from WMU. Chapel, known as 'Coach' to his neighbors and friends has done a lot in 100 years

Industry Road Trip
A group of WMU students toured industry-leading companies throughout the state of Michigan during their spring break, on the

Happy Mother's Day
In honor of Mother’s Day, we have been collecting Bronco Mom Stories. Below you’ll find a few of our favorite gems—read them, and

Alums Throw First Pitches
At Friday's Bronco Baseball game, up and coming country music star Frankie Ballard Jr., and Detroit Lions tight end Tony Scheffler will be

Be a Part of The Goldman Story
If you came down to the Park Trades Center on Friday for the MyWMU Experience, Be a Part of the Art, you saw something a bit unconventional —a giant projection of the WMU Goldman on the side of the building. Every superhero needs a dramatic entrance and this is only the beginning for the WMU Goldman

Boeing Sponsors Student
Guilherme Bastos, an Aeronautical Engineering and study abroad student from Brazil, has been chosen by Boeing to participate in an 8-week externship this summer. Representatives from Boeing traveled to WMU’s Parkview Campus in April to greet Bastos, Ken Shead and Tonya Noble (BA ’96, MA ’00)

Broncos Go Big
A handful of talented Broncos are leaving Western Michigan University, but where they're going will be the focus of the conversation

A Century of Knowledge
WMU Archives and Regional History has holdings that total over 28,000 cubic feet – making it the largest facility of its kind in southwestern Michigan and one of the largest in the nation. More than a century’s worth of knowledge is housed in the WMU Archives that allows the Western and Kalamazoo communities to research, learn and discover a plethora of new information daily

A Librarian Honored
Laura Sherbo (MLS) has been honored by the Association of of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA—a division of the American Library Association) with a leadership and Professional Achievement Award. Sherbo is a branch library services program manager at the Washington State Library, and was honored because of her work in library services for incarcerated populations

An Ultimate Experience
In a matter of days Mark Worsfold will make the transition from WMU student to alumnus and he's already got a pretty unique opportunity waiting

29 Degrees
Kalamazoo native Michael Nicholson has 29 degrees (12 from WMU), and he's working on number 30. ABC News recently released a story about him, which has since been picked up by Huffington Post, Gawker, and several other news outlets. The Kalamazoo Gazette first reported the story in 2009, when Nicholson had 27 degrees

Welcome New Alumni
On Saturday, 2,737 students became the newest alumni of Western Michigan University. In total, the University conferred 2,181

Event Features Alum Brewers
Experience the diversity of Michigan’s craft brewing industry—WIDR Sliders & Brew is the only tasting event in town that features

MyWMU Minute: Tim Chilcote
Tim Chilcote (BA '03), Social Media Manager at Fluency Media. "I’ve been all over the place. It’s funny, when I told people I was majoring

Bronco Biggest Loser
He participated on NBC’s The Biggest Loser. He lost 96 pounds—and maintained it. He completed a marathon. He's a Bronco— and he’s coming to WMU to share his life-changing experiences. Mike Danley (BS '71) was eliminated from The Biggest Loser, but his real success story is about

Women Network & Make an Impact
Women who attended the event were eager to learn more about the scholars— and more than generous in their efforts to help out. More than 300 pounds of household and personal care supplies, dozens of gift cards, and more than $700 in cash were raised for the Seita Scholars

Mime-Matics
A two-time WMU alum is taking math out of the classroom and putting an entertaining spin on concepts such as estimation, tiling, and infinity

Notable Science Grads Return
"This event is meant to show current students, whether in high school or college, how our graduates have overcome hurdles to get to where they are," Dr. Huffman, associate professor of chemistry, says. "It is a way to inspire them and motivate them to press on and help them

Beauregard Honored Again
WMU Athletic Director Kathy Beauregard (MA '81, Athletic Administration) will be honored yet again, this time by

MyWMU Minute: Candace Beeke
A MyWMU Minute with Candace Beeke, editor of the Houston Business Journal, the largest of the 40 markets, by population, in which

Transportation Leader
The man who managed the reconstruction of the Lodge Freeway, and the construction of the award-winning I-94 Tied Arch Bridge has been nationally recognized for his contributions to advancing innovation and efficiency in the transportation industry. Gregory Johnson received

MyWMU Minute: Craig Daitch
A MyWMU Minute— Q & A Session with WMU Alumnus Craig Daitch, a Digital Communications Manager at Ford Motor Company. "I have a Bachelor

Eco Chic
Just 12 years after completing her degree, Karen Behnke (BS '79) received a Distinguished Alumni Award (1991) from WMU

A Broadway Debut
Hannah Elless (BFA '09, Musical Theatre Performance) recently made her broadway debut in the revival of Godspell!

A Friendship Award
A WMU Alumnus was recently honored with an award from the Government of Kazakhstan—the highest honor that country bestows to

Happy WIDR Week
WIDR celebrates 60 years—providing even greater reason to participate in WIDR Week... What do WIDR and Food Network have in common?

Tennis Pro of the Year
Kirk Anderson (BS '73; MA '85, Physical Education) has been named Professional of the Year by the Professional Tennis

Northern Expeditions
David Zuhl (BBA ’79) and his wife, Kris (BBA ’85), own Expeditions North. During the winter, the Zuhls live in Michigan, but during the summer they really like to get away. The Zuhls own a fly-in fishing lodge on Nagagami Lake in northern Ontario. The 13,000-acre lake

WMU Love Stories Part V
We asked for your love stories, and the answer was loud and clear! There was plenty of Bronco Love to go around, but unfortunately, we could not feature all the amazing stories we received.

A New Pedestrian Mall
At one point in time, West Michigan Avenue ran through campus, but in 1973, the University closed the road and rerouted traffic by opening an extension at Howard Street. That area of campus will once again see a major change this coming summer. The entire strip of campus south of the new Sangren Hall (from the flag poles to the Administration Building) will be transformed into green space.

Lifelong Learning for Alumni
Interested in learning about Genealogy, Egypt, Poetry, or Women Workers of World War II? If the answer is no—there are plenty of other choices, but if the answer is yes—you’re in luck.

Wyoming's Top Geologist
Thomas Drean (BS ’74, Geology) has been named the new Wyoming State Geologist by the Governor of Wyoming.

Discovering Merze Tate
Sonya Bernard-Hollins (BA ’93, English, Community Journalism) is a freelance writer and journalist for local, state, and national newspapers and magazines. She also enjoys spending time digging through archives—and has focused on one outstanding historical figure who also happens to be a WMU alumna.

Not So Common Courtesy
Mitzi Taylor (BA ’93, Organizational Communication; Marketing) didn’t initially set out to raise awareness about manners with her career—but that’s exactly what she’s accomplished with her book Not So Common Courtesy.

A Stunning Debut
Brett Rigby (BFA ’07, Theatre) has been advancing his education since he left WMU, including studying under award winning musical theatre

'Colors of Life' on Display
Susan Teague (’76) received her bachelor’s degree in art from WMU—but the professional artist’s work is currently on display at the College of Health and Human Services. Colors of Life can be viewed in the second floor art gallery now through March 12.

WMU Love Stories Part I
“I was a food server in the Burnham cafeteria, refilling the cereal right before close when a striking beauty filled her bowl. It was love at first sight. Our first date was a couple weeks later, followed by three wonderful years on campus...

WMU Love Stories Part II
I met my fiance Shawn at WMU. We were both members of the same co-ed service fraternity. We officially met when he pledged in the spring semester of 2005. While I was not exactly crazy about him at first, I eventually found out that Shawn had many layers and was a a funny guy“I met my fiance Shawn at WMU. We were both members of the same co-ed service fraternity. We officially met when he pledged in the spring semester of 2005. While I was not exactly crazy about him at first, I eventually found out that Shawn had many layers and was a a funny guy...

WMU Love Stories Part III
I met my husband, Sam, at WMU in 1969 at the cafeteria for Bigelow and Henry Halls. Our first date was a concert at Miller Auditorium and the show was Stan Kenton and Peter Nero.

WMU Love Stories Part IV
At the start of our sophomore year (2000) there was an activity in Eldridge Hall called the “Cinderella Dinner.” The girls from one floor sent their shoes up the elevator to the guys on another floor. Each guy picked a shoe and rode the elevator back to the girls’ floor, where they matched the shoe they selected to the respective girl and had dinner with her in the cafeteria.

Gone but Not Forgotten
There are many in the WMU community who have made us proud with their dedicated service to our country, but unfortunately, not all of them will make it back home.

Trent Returns to WMU
Tererai Trent (Ph.D ’09, Evaluation) was named by Oprah as her all-time favorite guest last spring. Recently, Trent returned to WMU to talk about her life and the education she received at WMU.

Run Across Palestine
Meryl Marsh (BA ’04, Music) is running across Palestine—that’s right, for 5 days and 129 miles, Marsh is running from the West Bank of the Palestinian Territories, from Hebron to Jenin, to show her support for sustainable community development in farming regions across the world.

The Cat's Pajamas
Nathaniel Adams (BA ’08, Music; Lee Honors College) is a lead/ tenor singer in a vocal band that’s been getting a lot of attention lately

The People's Choice
Erin Lamont (BA, Dance, BBA, Marketing) is at it again—more accurately, she never stopped

Popular Brewery has Bronco Roots

Leading Actress

Pro-Bowl Broncos

Gun Lake CEO Returns to WMU

Flying Wild Alaska

Same Sweet Girls

Astrology in the Middle Ages

How to Get to Sesame Street

Bronco on Letterman

Imagining Atlantis

Former Bronco— Buzz Lightyear!