Kalamazoo Times

A new scholarship has been established at Western Michigan University (WMU) to support first-generation college students. The initiative is a result of collaboration between the WMU chapter of the American Association of University Professors (WMU-AAUP) and President Russ Kavalhuna.

Andrew Hennlich, president of the WMU-AAUP chapter, stated, “The WMU/AAUP Scholarship for First-Generation Students advances our belief in public higher education as a transformative force. We are proud to stand with our campus partners to help Western students achieve their goals, both as scholars and as engaged citizens.”

The scholarship will offer up to three awards of $5,000 each. Eligible recipients must be the first in their families to attend college, demonstrate academic success at WMU, and show a commitment to advancing justice, peace, democracy or health through education.

President Kavalhuna commented on the partnership: “This initiative is what Bronco teamwork is all about, creating opportunities for students together. I’m especially grateful to the WMU-AAUP membership for their spirit of partnership and shared conviction that education is a force for good. When we unite behind our mission, we multiply the impact we can have on our students and community.”

Funding for the scholarship includes $4,500 from WMU-AAUP—approved by its executive committee—and $10,500 in personal contributions from President Kavalhuna.

The launch of this scholarship follows recent agreements between WMU-AAUP leadership and university administration on issues such as research travel funding and stipends for protective eyewear for eligible faculty. These efforts reflect ongoing cooperation aimed at supporting both faculty and student success.

Information about how to apply for the scholarship will be available soon on both the WMU and WMU-AAUP websites.

For more information about news and events at Western Michigan University, visit WMU News online.