Ismael Ahmed, associate provost for Integrated Learning and Community Partnerships, believes UM-Dearborn is the first institution nationwide to establish such a minor. “This is really the only minor that stands on its own in the entire country, so it’s historic,” Ahmed said. “The more cultural competence people have, the more they can work with, do business and live with people in the community. It’s a great opportunity.”

Sally Howell, assistant professor of Arab American studies and history, said she’s already fielded plenty of excitement from students. “The news that we have the minor has already made a big difference,” Howell said. “It’s a mix of humanities, social sciences and behavioral sciences. We’re also going to try and provide some engaged learning classes to coincide with the University’s metropolitan vision. Students will come out of this with a much better idea of Arab American culture and history.”

Bawardi, assistant professor of Arab American studies and history, introduced Arab American studies courses at UM-Dearborn five years ago, two of which will be core offerings for the minor. “Whereas the existing courses attempt to address the breadth of the Arab Americans' complex experiences, the minor will allow us to address specific strands of Arab American life in separate courses, including strengthening links with local institutions and, I hope, translations of untouched Arabic language works that could unlock neglected historiography,” he said.

Student demand, paired with the University’s diverse community, prompted the minor’s inception. “The UM-Dearborn student body is unique in its ethnic composition, providing a sizable pool of potential Arab American studies minors of both Arab and non-Arab backgrounds,” according to the program proposal.

Bawardi contends the Arab American studies minor can benefit students pursuing majors across the board. Whether they’re studying to become a lawyer or an accountant, the minor will help students prepare for a diverse workplace, he said.

Ron Stockton, political science professor, agrees. “This minor will be of great interest to certain types of people, for example, teachers,” Stockton said. “A teacher with Arab American students, or even a teacher with no Arab American students, would find it valuable to know about this community. My own hope is that more non-Arabs sign up for this minor than Arabs. That would be a great success for us as an educational institution.”

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 90 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

“This year we are saw a substantial change in the outlook of technology leaders,” said Tim Davis, director of iLabs. “There is an expressed confidence and optimism about the direction and growth of their companies. This is reinforced by a positive view of Michigan as a place that is not just increasingly friendly to business and technology interests, but cultivates an environment where industry can grow.”

A total of 55 Michigan-based technology business leaders participated in the survey, which was conducted throughout the fall of 2011 in collaboration with the Detroit Regional Chamber, Automation Alley and the MIT Enterprise Forum – Great Lakes Chapter.

Over half of those surveyed indicated that a majority of their revenues come from Michigan and that they plan to expand their workforces this year to meet increases in sales. When these businesses do hire additional employees 47% plan to recruit locally with 59% indicating they benefit from access to skilled college graduates.

Michigan universities are doing a good job of preparing graduates, according to the survey, with 60% of those surveyed acknowledging that graduates are business-ready with strengths in technical and critical thinking skills. More than a third of executives also indicated that they benefit from access to Michigan’s research universities.

As in previous years, a majority of executives, 75%, agreed that shifting the Michigan economy, from one that is manufacturing-based to knowledge-based, is necessary for the State’s long-term success. These executives also believe in Michigan, with nine out of ten of them planning to remain located in the state for the next 12 months.

For more information from the 2011 Technology Climate Survey or iLabs click here.
 
Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 90 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.
###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
313-593-5542 / bethmar@umd.umich.edu

Nearly 1,300 transfer students applied to UM-Dearborn this semester, also a record for the University.

“We are particularly pleased with the increase in new transfer students this semester,” said Stanley Henderson, vice chancellor for enrollment management and student life. “The increase represents a vote of confidence in UM-Dearborn from students who began at another school and see us as the right fit to finish their education. We are ready to ensure they have the quality experience they expect.”

This semester’s new batch of transfer students come from 60 different colleges and universities, including many from Henry Ford and Oakland community colleges.

Transfer students from HFCC increased by 16 percent, while transfers from OCC jumped by 13 percent. Combined, the two local community colleges generated nearly 200 new transfer students at UM-Dearborn this semester.

“Two consecutive semester record-breaking transfer classes indicate that UM-Dearborn is a strong transfer destination,” said Christopher Tremblay, assistant vice chancellor for enrollment management. “I commend the Office of Admissions and Orientation for their strategy, recruitment techniques and personal touches that makes enrolling so inviting and efficient.”

And transfer students aren’t the only ones on the rise. Graduate enrollment for the Winter semester increased by 3 percent and applications also were up 16 percent.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education. A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

DEARBORN / Jan. 17, 2012 – UM-Dearborn senior Gabrielle Boyer painted the walls at Ann Visger Elementary School in River Rouge because she believes volunteerism is essential to community growth.

Celeste Alexander, a freshman, splattered white paint on the walls alongside Boyer because she believes giving back is essential to personal growth.

Freshman Fatimah Charles planted seeds around Walter White Community Center in River Rouge because she wanted to spread hope. And Shani Allison (’10 M.S.) scrubbed desks at a nearby school simply because she likes to volunteer.

These are just a few of the reasons why hundreds of UM-Dearborn students, faculty, staff and alumni woke up early Monday to volunteer at various sites throughout metropolitan Detroit. The campuswide volunteer effort stems from the University’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service that honors the civil rights leader.

Hundreds gathered at the University Center’s Kochoff Hall Monday morning for breakfast and to meet up with their volunteer teams. UM-Dearborn Chancellor Daniel Little addressed the volunteers and thanked them for their service to the community.

“The work that you’re doing today, giving of your own time, your own energy, your own hearts, to serve our community … you are honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and you are building a better community,” Little said.

Rula Aoun (’11 B.A.) played her part in building a better community as she cleaned out lockers at Ann Visger. “I live a very privileged life and I’m very content and happy, and there are other people who don’t get to live such an advantaged life and don’t get to have clean schools … so I just felt like it was very important to play my part and help out in the community and do what I could,” Aoun said.

Ashanda Horton, a sophomore, joined Aoun and scrubbed lockers at the school. “MLK Day is important to me because he helped get a lot of people freedom and I believe we need to keep that in mind as the years progress, and it’s important to give back to the community,” Horton said.

After scrubbing floors and painting walls, members of the campus community returned to Kochoff Hall for lunch and musical performances.

To view a photo album from with pictures from sites across southeast Michigan visit Flickr  or Facebook.

Click here to see why some students and alumni decided to volunteer.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education. A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

DEARBORN / Jan. 17, 2012 – Hundreds of trucks, vans and sedans canvass University of Michigan-Dearborn’s parking lots on a daily basis. And in 2011, those vehicles exited campus with their rightful owners. Not a single motor vehicle theft was reported to UM-Dearborn’s Department of Public Safety last year.

The same can be said for assaults, robberies and burglaries, according to the University’s 2011 crime statistics.

“Zero – that’s a hard number to meet,” said UM-Dearborn Police Chief Rick Gordon.
Especially when it comes to motor vehicle thefts, he said. Three such thefts were reported on campus in 2010, with another 11 in 2009 and eight a piece in 2007 and 2008.

Larceny complaints also are on a gradual downswing, as the department received 36 larceny complaints in 2011, many of which involved electronic devices. Gordon said popular items include iPods, GPS units, laptop computers and cellphones, some of which were taken from the Mardigian Library when left unattended. But 36 thefts is a far cry from the 62 reported larcenies in 2009.

Gordon, in part, credits the dwindling crime statistics to increased patrols on campus.
“We want to make ourselves more visible so people think twice before committing crimes on campus,” he said. “We put a real emphasis on high visibility.”

Public safety officers patrol campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Alex Mich, a UM-Dearborn senior studying history, can confirm that.

Mich works at the University’s Wellness Center and often sees patrol vehicles on campus, even when he punches in at 6 a.m. It’s just another reason why Mich said he feels safe on campus.

“Certainly, with their presence, it’s going to curtail crime quite a bit,” Mich said. “I feel just as safe as I have been before, but it’s nice to know there has been an improvement.”

And although officers often can be seen driving through campus, they also are required to leave their vehicles and walk through academic buildings to expand their presence.
“They’re on foot all the time,” Gordon said.

Gordon said officers often approach students at the library to remind them about protecting their valuables if they decide to step away from their workstation.
“These students just have to make sure their stuff is secure,” he said.

The department works closely with the City of Dearborn’s Police Department on certain investigations, and Gordon also emails public safety advisories across campus when officers detect an ongoing crime trend.

“If things crop up, like an epidemic of a certain vehicle being stolen, we put an advisory out for that,” he said.

The department’s increased visibility and mission to ensure campus safety played a role in UM-Dearborn being named the third-safest campus in Michigan in 2011, according to StateUniversity.com. The website devoted to providing information about colleges and universities throughout the country also named UM-Dearborn the third-safest campus in Michigan in 2010.

The University received a safety rating of nearly 96 percent based on various crime statistics from 2011, including burglary, larceny and aggravated assault. The only two institutions ranked ahead of UM-Dearborn, in regard to safety, are Oakland Community College and Delta College, located near Saginaw, Mich. To see where other colleges and universities in Michigan rank, visit www.stateuniversity.com/rank_by_state/safety_score_rank/MI.html.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education. A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.
###

Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
313-593-5542 / bethmar@umd.umich.edu

“We are pleased that the College of Business continues to receive national recognition for its strengths in graduate business education,” said Lee Redding, interim dean, UM-Dearborn College of Business. “These rankings remind us that our business faculty excel in their fields of expertise and that they continue to be praised for their roles as educators. The rankings also speak to the quality of our admitted students as they are well prepared to make immediate contributions to their employers upon graduation.”

U.S. News& World Report looked at several factors to determine which online business programs are the best, including selectivity, faculty credentials, student engagement and level of accreditation, and the variety of technological outlets available to students. Universities must offer master’s degree business programs with course content at least 80 percent accessible to students online. For a complete list of rankings click here, to review the ranking methodology click here.

In a separate ranking the publication identified the College as a 2012 Best Business School. The Princeton Review also recognized the College as a Best Business School.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Business is home to several nationally recognized programs where students gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside faculty members and business professionals in a variety of areas. For information about the College of Business' graduate programs (online and on campus) visit http://cob.umd.umich.edu/grad.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education. A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
313-593-5542 / bethmar@umd.umich.edu

AACSB Accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in business education. Founded in 1916, AACSB is the longest serving and largest global accrediting body for business schools that offer undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in business.

“I’m pleased that the College of Business has been recognized again for the rigor, relevance and quality of its undergraduate and graduate programs,” according to Lee Redding, interim dean, College of Business. “AACSB accreditation is a notable achievement for the College and reaffirms the quality of our faculty, staff and students and the overall learning environment at the College of Business.”

UM-Dearborn’s College of Business is home to several nationally recognized programs in which students gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside faculty members and business professionals in a variety of areas. The College welcomes more than 1,350 undergraduate and 640 graduate students from 28 states and 14 countries and was recently recognized by both U.S. News and World Report and Princeton Review as a Best Business School.

"AACSB commends each institution for their exemplary work in maintaining the highest honor in business school accreditation," said Jerry Trapnell, executive vice president and chief accreditation officer of AACSB International. "Schools must not only meet specific standards of excellence, but their deans, heads of business units, and academic and non-academic staff must make a commitment to ongoing improvement to ensure that the institution will continue to deliver the highest quality of education to students."

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
313-593-5542 / bethmar@umd.umich.edu

“The slight drop, is largely due to a rebound in Small Business Administration loans, which offset a drop in the number of workers reported in science and engineering,” according to Lee Redding, associate professor of business economics and director of the Innovation Index at the College of Business.

The Innovation Index tracks economic innovation in Michigan based on calculations of employment of “innovation workers,” trends in venture capital, trademark applications, incorporation activity, small business loans and gross job creation. For the second quarter, three indicators dropped, while three advanced which let to the slight overall decrease.  

Positive indicators in the second quarter 2011 Innovation Index were Small Business Administration loans, which were higher than in the second quarter of 2010, providing hope that some of the advance is sustainable, trademark applications, which continued an increase that began in 2006 and venture capital funding in Michigan. Negative indicators included innovation workers, as the percentage of workers employed in science and engineering was down for the second consecutive quarter; gross job creation which fell slightly below gross job losses for the quarter and incorporations and LLC filings, which are traditionally high in the first quarter and fall as the year goes on.

The next UM-Dearborn Innovation Index report, due in late February, will contain a detailed report of third quarter activity with preliminary indications for the forth quarter of 2011. Redding collaborates on the project with economist Anne-Louise Statt.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 90 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
313-593-5542 / bethmar@umd.umich.edu

French fries. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Even pizza. All foods that generally are feasted on by hand, the UM-Dearborn student and Iraqi native used a fork.

“We were the cleanest and quietest kids, in fear we’d be deported,” he said. “We were forced to conform more than we were used to.”

Al-Wishah, along with six other UM-Dearborn students and alumni, recently shared his immigrant memoir as part of an ongoing project led by political science Professor Ron Stockton.

All seven of them shared their stories Nov. 14 at the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters building. Stockton recruited a group of 40 UM-Dearborn students and alumni who relocated from their native countries to the U.S. He then asked them to write a letter to their descendants in the year 2100, telling them about their experiences as immigrants coming to the U.S.
Maryann Rafka, a UM-Dearborn student who came to the U.S. from Syria, and others relished the experience of telling their stories.

“It’s one of the best things I’ll probably ever do,” she said.
Damir Vucicevic agreed. The UM-Dearborn student came to the U.S. from Yugoslavia in 2000 and admits he had mixed feelings about the move, especially following the NATO bombing of Serbia. But Vucicevic had family who relocated to the U.S. and reassured him the move would be beneficial.

However, no encouragement could prepare Vucicevic for the routine hospital check-ups.

In fact, Vucicevic, who’s open about his fear of needles, passed out shortly after his first time giving blood. But hospital visits aside, Vucicevic eventually settled in, met plenty of friends and adapted to U.S. culture.

“It went up from there,” he said. “I met some of the most wonderful people here.”

Maissaa Dakhlallah, a UM-Dearborn student who moved to the U.S. from Congo, also has adapted to Western culture, but said she continues to struggle balancing the two.

“I’m kind of like playing tug of war with myself,” said Dakhlallah, who’s of Lebanese heritage.
Dakhlallah said her culture doesn’t condone dating and preaches strict curfews, something she struggles to grasp because her friends aren’t subject to the same ideals.

“Dive into American culture, but don’t drown in it,” she said.

The seven students and alumni, including Cynthia Munoz, Nahia Rmeiti and Eva Gogola, don’t receive academic credit for their immigrant memoirs, and Stockton leads the project on a volunteer basis. Stockton remains committed to the project because of the personal benefit he gains from listening to the stories.

“These are some of the most thoughtful people I have ever encountered, and this is one of the most rewarding projects of my career,” he said.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###


Contact: 
Beth Marmarelli 


UM-Dearborn


313-593-5542


bethmar@umd.umich.edu

Monday through Friday, students often are studying in the classroom or playing sports on the field. But about 40 percent of those students aren’t proficient when it comes to understanding the English language. That language gap often poses a problem in the classroom.

UM-Dearborn works to erase that gap. Martha Adler, along with fellow UM-Dearborn faculty members, continues to work with Dearborn Public Schools’ teachers in an effort to help develop their awareness of the relevance of language to specific disciplines.

“Dearborn has one of the highest populations of English language-learners in Michigan,” said Adler, associate professor of education. “Many of the problems students have when they hit concept areas is the language, not necessarily the concepts. We have kids who can barely speak English, but are great at geometry.”

Adler encourages Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP), a research-based model that helps teachers plan and deliver lessons that allow English learners to acquire the necessary knowledge as they develop English language proficiency.

Matt Schleif, a social studies teacher at Edsel Ford High School, said working with UM-Dearborn faculty members has helped him decipher which teaching methods most benefited his students learning English as a second language.

“As a graduate from both the Dearborn Public Schools and UM-Dearborn, I love being involved in this effort that is benefiting not only the students in our classrooms, but also supporting and educating our educators here in Dearborn,” Schleif said. “I was part of the initial group of teachers five years ago that started the program and I am asked every year whether or not I have the time to continue to participate. Without hesitation, I have always said ‘absolutely yes’.”

And it’s not only the teachers who are applauding UM-Dearborn’s collaborative efforts. Fordson High School already is seeing a positive impact, said Principal Youssef Mosallam.

“Working with Martha and the University has been a phenomenal experience,” Mosallam said. “The team work and collaboration with Martha has really focused on developing teachers that can reach out and help students. If we want to continue developing great teachers and having our students continuously excel, we need to continue dialogue and collaboration between the University’s educational programs and the school districts.”

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###


Contact: 
Beth Marmarelli 


UM-Dearborn


313-593-5542


bethmar@umd.umich.edu

“Businesses are the engines of growth and development in today’s economy with government establishing the rules and environment to make this happen. A collaborative and constructive dialogue between business and government is the only way we can balance the needs of businesses and society at large to provide for a peaceful and harmonious coexistence,” said Pavan V. Muzumdar, managing director, Pieris Capital, LLC and one of the entrepreneurial reviewers for the study.

In addition, 37 other communities across the State that performed well in eCities 2011 have been identified as five and four star communities.

Five-Star Communities
* denotes top performer

Four-Star Communities
* denotes top performer

The eCities research surveyed more than 100 communities in the State of Michigan who are home to 36% of Michigan residents and 44% of its college graduates. These communities also had more than $1 billion in commercial construction last year and more than half of them share services with other communities.

“We are pleased to have participation from so many communities throughout the state in eCities 2011,” said Davis. “The focus of this project is assisting local communities by identifying best practices and methods that they can implement which will aid with job growth strategies, economic diversification, and development of entrepreneurs.”

The communities will be honored at a ceremony at UM-Dearborn on Wednesday, Nov. 16, with Martin Dober, senior vice president of entrepreneurship & innovation, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, providing the keynote address at the event.

The annual eCities research project, which began in 2007, uses data supplied by the participants as well as other public records to assemble a six-factor, 32-item index of entrepreneurial activity, looking at such factors as clustering, incentives, growth, policies, community and education. The study focuses on entrepreneurship because of its importance to expansion and diversification of Michigan’s regional economies and the impact small businesses have on job creation. To date, 138 communities across Michigan have participated in the study.

About University of Michigan-Dearborn

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education. A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.
###

CONTACTS:
Beth Marmarelli
bethmar@umd.umich.edu
313-593-5542

“Academia’s role in the economy is rapidly changing,” said Daryl Weinert, program principal investigator and executive director of the University of Michigan’s Business Engagement Center.  “It’s critical that we recognize businesses as clients and be responsive to their needs.

The Michigan Corporate Relations Network, or ‘M-CRN’ will create partnerships that will connect industry to critical university assets that can contribute to their growth and productivity and, at the same time, enhance the teaching and research at our universities.”  

Six of the 15 public universities in Michigan including Michigan State University, Michigan Technological University, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Wayne State University and Western Michigan University were chosen because of the broad research and geographic footprint they represent. Collectively, they represent more than $1.8 billion of research expenditures, which is 98 percent of the academic research done in Michigan in 2009; 99 percent of all patent activity among Michigan universities; and over 160,000 students across the state.

“Michigan is one of the top states in the nation for research and development with more than $16 billion in industrial R&D and close to $2 billion in university research,’’ said MSF chairperson Michael Finney, president and CEO of the MEDC. “Companies like Google, Facebook and Dell were born on college campuses and we want to keep helping our leading universities turn the latest developments into jobs."

The M-CRN will use more than $1.8 million from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and the Michigan Strategic Fund Board.  The overall program funding will exceed $3 million after realizing an industry match of more than $1 million.

The six programs include:

Establishment or enhancement of business engagement offices This will create the first statewide university-business engagement network in the country. The existing business engagement offices at MSU (Business-CONNECT), UM (Business Engagement Center) and WSU (Front Door) have proved critically important resources for businesses in navigating university offices. Both businesses and economic development agencies across Michigan leverage these “one-stop shops” to gain access to university research expertise and student talent. By supporting the formation of similar business interface offices at Michigan Tech, WMU and UM Dearborn, this six-school network will magnify the value and impact for businesses across the state.

Creation of a Small Company Innovation Program (SCIP)The Small Company Innovation Program will help companies partner with universities for applied research and development of identified technologies. The SCIP will provide Michigan small businesses access to matching funding to engage the M-CRN partner universities on company-specific research projects.

Creation of a Small Company Internship Award program (SCIA) To encourage student job placements with innovative and dynamic company partners within Michigan, the SCIA program will provide funding for students to work as summer interns or in cooperative positions with corporate partners on projects that are both beneficial to the company and academically relevant to the student. The SCIA program is targeted at small Michigan businesses in the science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, fields where significant innovation can occur.

Creation of a business portal One of the greatest assets that universities possess is talented faculty and researchers. The business portal will provide the private sector with a single point of access Web tool for searching faculty expertise across the M-CRN universities.  

Increase access to university library resources Access to a major research library’s collection of journals, periodicals and books is an invaluable resource. This program reduces the cost barrier to library resources for small companies in Michigan and will connect companies to the Michigan Information Transfer Source program at the UM Library System, one of only five university library systems nationally to offer electronic desktop delivery of information resources.

Creation of an Instant Innovation Program The Instant Innovation Program brings faculty experts from the universities together with Michigan companies to tackle significant business and research challenges identified by the companies in a daylong, facilitated brainstorming session. The goal is to foster creative, unique approaches to solving fundamental technology and process challenges.  

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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Mark Fellows
Communications Manager
Michigan State University
Email: mark.fellows@ur.msu.edu
Phone: 517-884-0166

Dennis Walikainen
Senior Editor
Michigan Technological University
Email: dkwalika@mtu.edu
Phone: 906-487-3510

Laura Lessnau
Director, News Service
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Email: llessnau@umich.edu
Phone: 734-647-1851

Beth Marmarelli
Associate Director, Communications & Marketing
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Email: bethmar@umd.umich.edu
Phone: 313-593-5542

Julie O’Connor
Director, Research Communications
Wayne State University
Email: julie.oconnor@wayne.edu
Phone: 313-577-8845

Bob Miller
Associate Vice President, Community Outreach
Western Michigan University
Email: bob.miller@wmich.edu
Phone: 269-387-2073

Jeff Mason
Executive Director
University Research Corridor
Email: jeffmason@urcmich.org
Phone: 517-999-4007

Wickersham met with administrators at UM-Dearborn to formalize a partnership that makes the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office the ninth public safety organization to benefit from the campus’s community service personnel scholarship program.

UM-Dearborn’s community service personnel scholarships allow officers pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees at UM-Dearborn the opportunity to receive a special scholarship that provides a credit for 20 percent of their tuition costs and fees each semester.

Prospective students may be admitted to any undergraduate or graduate program the University offers as long as the program’s admission and eligibility criteria are met. UM-Dearborn’s 20 percent tuition credit works in conjunction with any tuition reimbursement program offer by the law enforcement agencies.

This semester, 15 local police officers are furthering their education at a reduced cost thanks to the UM-Dearborn scholarship program. In addition to Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, the University has formed collaborations with eight other departments since 2009: Allen Park, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Detroit, Novi, Southfield, Taylor and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.

Partnerships with additional law enforcement agencies at all levels are in the works, according to Susan Cushnier, who helps associate Prof. Kevin Early, director of UM-Dearborn’s Criminal Justice Studies Program, manage the scholarship program.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###


Contact: 


Beth Marmarelli 


UM-Dearborn


313-593-5542


bethmar@umd.umich.edu

UM-Dearborn economics Prof. Pat Smith, along with another professor from Ohio State University, sampled thousands of college freshmen throughout the country to determine whether they fell victim to the Freshman 15. But on average, Smith said freshmen only gained about three pounds during their first year.

“The Freshman 15 is largely a myth,” she said. “Most people don’t gain that much weight their freshman year.”

Twenty-five percent of the freshmen actually lost weight during their first year, Smith said. Smith contends initial research on the Freshman 15 didn’t represent a broad range of students.

Her research is the first of its kind in that she uses data from students across the country. Smith’s findings will be published in December’s edition of Social Science Quarterly.

“Instead of a spike in weight during the freshman year, college-educated individuals exhibit moderate, but steady weight gain during and after college,” according to her research.

Smith hopes her research will prompt media outlets to stop publishing stories about the Freshman 15. Frequent warnings about weight gain could lead some students to engage in unhealthy behaviors, Smith said.

“We’d like to see people be more accurate about this,” said Smith, who doesn’t believe the Freshman Three sounds as attractive to the media. “It’s not catchy. It’s not dramatic.”

Smith also hopes her research will benefit anti-obesity efforts. Stemming and reversing the obesity trend is important because it could reduce public and private healthcare costs and improve labor productivity, she said.

“Anti-obesity efforts directed specifically at college freshmen will likely have little impact on obesity prevalence among young adults,” according to her research.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
UM-Dearborn
313-593-5542
bethmar@umd.umich.edu

That’s because the University of Michigan-Dearborn student is headed to Italy next month to partake in a weeklong project at one of Europe’s oldest and most respected textile design companies, Marzotto Group.

“I am hardcore Rosetta Stone for the next week,” said Whitsett, who plans to use the popular language-learning software to help him converse overseas.

And if that doesn’t work, he can lean on Noela Leka for help. Leka, a recent UM-Dearborn graduate who’s fluent in Italian, will join Whitsett as part of the Marzotto project.

Whitsett and Leka, both affiliated with the College of Business, are among 25 students and recent graduates from all parts of the world who were chosen to participate in the program based on creating business strategies to aid in Marzotto’s future success. Marzotto celebrated 175 years in business this year, and in order to achieve continued success, they selected 25 young people to brainstorm new strategic plans for the company.

And as if the opportunity to work with one of the major players in the textile industry wasn’t enough, Whitsett and Leka won’t pay a dime because Marzotto is covering the bill. They fly out Nov. 5.

There, Whitsett plans to craft communications strategies, while Leka will work on strategic opportunities.

“It’s super exciting,” said Leka, a native of Albania. “It’s one of those things that I still don’t believe.”

Leka graduated last May with bachelor’s degrees in accounting, criminal justice and political science. She plans to pursue a master’s degree and believes this trip will benefit her during the application process.

“I think not only will it set my application apart, but it will also give me experience that no one else has,” she said. “It gives you knowledge that will help you, not only in the future, but to also grow as a person.”

Whitsett, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, said he’s honored to represent UM-Dearborn and the U.S while in Italy.

“It’s somewhat overwhelming just to know that I’m representing not only my school, but my country,” he said.

And the experience sure can add something unique to their resumes, said Lee Freeman, associate dean of administration and associate professor of MIS in the College of Business.

“It’s a huge deal, I think, especially in the job market today,” Freeman said. “This is something that’s going to stand out. It gives them a leg up in so many different ways. It’s just something that’s so unique and valuable for them as a student.”

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###


Contact: 


Beth Marmarelli 


UM-Dearborn


313-593-5542


bethmar@umd.umich.edu

Meet the 2011 Alumni Difference Maker Award Recipients

Young Alumnus of the Year

Tom Wille (’10 CASL) is owner, director and producer of Constant Motion Productions, a local production firm with clientele, including The United Way and the Islamic Society of North America. Tom has donated more than $7,000 of film and video assets to regional nonprofit organizations.  He is vice chair of the campuswide Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Alumni Affiliate. Tom is a frequent volunteer on campus, participating in Parent Orientation, Opportunity Scholarship Interviews, Maize and Blue Open House, serving as an unpaid course assistant for the journalism and screen studies program and guiding Campus Video Network in the 48 Hour Go Green Film Festival.

Matthew Zelman (’01 COB) is project manager of product analysis at Blue Care Network. He cofounded and led the College of Business’ Graduates of the Last Decade from 2002-2010. Through his leadership, the group organized a professional speaker series for business graduates, mentored campus honor students and created networking and professional development opportunities for UM-Dearborn alumni. Matthew also serves as vice chair of the College’s Alumni Affiliate. He was named the National Management Association’s 2010 Member of the Year for his work as the treaurer and vice president of his local chapter of the organization.

School of Education Alumnus of the Year

Tracy Blakely-Thompson (’92 SOE) is president of Inspiring One, LLC, an organization that supplies therapy and training to individuals and organizations. She has consulted for companies such as Comcast and Jaguar. Tracy received her master’s degree from Ashland Theological Seminary and her doctorate in ministry from United Theological Seminary. She is a committed volunteer for HAVEN and UM-Dearborn’s Womens’ Resource Center, serving as a guest speaker for Take Back the Night and The Vagina Monologues. She is an active member of the American Society for Training and Development, the Council of Clergywomen of Metropolitan Detroit and the UM-Dearborn School of Education Alumni Affiliate.

College of  Engineering and Computer Science Alumnus of the Year

Nancy Gioia (’82 CECS) is director of global electrification at Ford Motor Company. During her 29 years at Ford, she has held 17 different leadership roles. Upon graduation from UM-Dearborn, Nancy earned a master’s degree in manufacturing systems engineering at Stanford University. She was named one of Automotive News “Top 100 Women” in 2005 and 2010, and among its “Electrifying 100” in 2011. Nancy is a board member for the Electric Drive Transportation Association and California PEV Collaborative, and serves as an advisor to the UC Davis PEV Center and Wayne State University’s Electrification Center.

College of Business Alumnus of the Year

Alan Schultz (’81 COB) is chairman, president and CEO of Valassis Communications, LLC. Today, the company has more than 7,000 employees and operates in 28 states and eight countries. Through Alan’s leadership, Valassis has received more than 30 awards and honors, including Fortune Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For,” the Bain Award for Strategy Excellence, and Business Ethics Magazine’s “100 Best Corporate Citizens.” Alan also sits on UM-Deaborn’s College of Business Board of Advisors, where he serves on the Internship Committee, creating career placement opportunities for UM-Dearborn students.

College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters Alumnus of the Year

James Miller (’78 CASL) is a fellow at Hewlett Packard, a title awarded to the most innovative technical leaders, where he serves as the chief technology officer for the General Motors account. Prior to this position, he was the chief architect for GM’s global purchasing and supply chain. James is the treasurer of UM-Dearborn’s College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters Alumni Affiliate, where he also sits on the Scholarship Committee. When James is not organizing fundraisers or supporting scholarships, he also can be found assisting the Department of Mathematics by volunteering at programs, including the annual Career Paths in Mathematical Sciences panel.

Jeanette Schumacher Alumni Service Award

Tina Russette (’93 CASL) has been a member of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters Alumni Affiliate since 2001, and currently serves as chair of the group. During her time with the Affiliate, Tina helped revamp and coordinate the College’s signature fundraiser, November Indulge. Through this fundraiser, $78,000 has been raised to support the education of more than 60 UM-Dearborn students. Tina also volunteers for several campus programs including graduation receptions and prospective student call nights. She is an active volunteer with the Commerce Township Community Library and City of Dearborn Homecoming. Tina is also an engaged member of the Mercy High School Alumnae Association.

Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

James Brailean (’85 CECS) is cofounder, president and CEO of PacketVideo, the world’s leading provider of carrier-grade infrastructure software. His software can be found in 275 million devices worldwide. James earned his doctorate in philosophy at Northwestern University, where he currently serves on the McCormick Advisory Council and Center for Entrepreneurship Boards. James received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Mobile Entertainment Forum and was featured as a 2004 Innovator in Telecommunications by Newsweek and Wall Street Journal. In 2005, he was named Northwestern University’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

For more information contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 313-593-5131 or umdalumni@umd.umich.edu.

“I’m pleased that the College of Business has been recognized again for the rigor, relevance and quality of the MBA program,” said Kim Schatzel, dean, College of Business. “Our faculty members are passionate about providing students with the experience and knowledge that today’s businesses need. Ultimately our reputation for excellence is based on the quality of our students and alumni.”

UM-Dearborn students surveyed for the guide noted an outstanding academic experience, stating that many professors are “clearly experts in their fields” and that “small class sizes help the interaction between students and professors, as well as among peers.” They also noted the advancements the College of Business is making to stand out from the competition, including its on-going efforts to keep its programs relevant, as well as continuous improvements to its academic offerings and facilities.

The Princeton Review’s “Best 294 Business Schools” guidebook contains two-page profiles of schools and MBA programs with details about academics, student life and admissions, plus scores for academics, selectivity and career placement services. The guidebook is compiled based on a survey of 19,000 students attending the best AACSB-accredited MBA programs in the world, as well as school-reported data.

UM-Dearborn’s College of Business is home to several nationally recognized programs in which students gain valuable hands-on experience working alongside faculty members and business professionals in a variety of areas. Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report recognized UM-Dearborn’s College of Business as one of its 2012 Best Business Schools.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###
Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
UM-Dearborn
313-593-5542
bethmar@umd.umich.edu

In competition with entries from 100 graduate programs across North America, Bunton won for two excerpts from the narrative Masters Thesis she recently completed under the direction of Language, Culture, and Communication Professor Carolyn Kraus.

The two have been working together since 2004 when Bunton enrolled in a creative writing course that Kraus was teaching at Scott Correctional Facility, where Bunton was incarcerated for 17 years. The Inside Out program was initiated by UM-Dearborn Sociology Professor Lora Lempert, who recruited other UM-Dearborn professors as volunteer teachers and has since developed college education programs at several other Michigan prisons.

After the writing course ended in 2005, Bunton continued sending her work to Kraus and, soon after her release in September 2008, she enrolled in the MALS Program at the University of Michigan-Dearborn with the goal of continuing her writing.

“Toni has been a joy to work with for the past seven years,” Kraus said. “She writes with extraordinary attention and compassion. Her memory is nearly photographic.”

Ken Smith of Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs praises Bunton’s work as “powerful, psychologically insightful, and deeply engaging.”

Bunton, who will receive $500 as part of the award, will be honored at a ceremony during the AGLSP’s annual conference in October. In addition, her work will be published in the upcoming issue of the organization’s journal, Confluence.

“A national writing award is a proud accomplishment for any university program,” Smith added. “I hope you agree that it hints at the excellence not only of Ms. Bunton and her creative writing but also of the faculty who have inspired and supported her, the program that shaped her graduate experience, and the university that values the good work of graduate liberal studies. I want to congratulate you all.”

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###

Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
UM-Dearborn
313-593-5542
bethmar@umd.umich.edu

Graphic design student Jaclyn Mastroianni will have her artwork displayed in the Anderson House Office Building—home to the Michigan House of Representatives—as part of the Student Art in the Legislature initiative, a program created by the Presidents Council, State Universities of Michigan. Mastroianni’s artwork will be on display for one year, accompanied by a plaque indicating the name of the piece, the student’s name and her affiliation with UM-Dearborn.

Mastroianni’s work, “Donkey Kong Country,” is a 13” x 11” colored pencil drawing on paper.  It was an assignment in Intermediate Drawing taught by LEO lecturer Madeleine Barkey. The assignment was to create two drawings with different subjects but with the same compositional balance.

“This work shows Jaclyn’s humor as well as her great rendering skills,” said Barkey.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###

Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
UM-Dearborn
313-593-5542
bethmar@umd.umich.edu

The Center will build upon UM-Dearborn’s existing Ph.D. and master’s degree programs in automotive systems engineering, as well as faculty expertise and research achievements in the area of electric drive vehicles, including battery electric vehicles, extended-range electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

“I am very excited about this opportunity,” said Chris Mi, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, who is leading the project at UM-Dearborn. “This is a big recognition of our past work in the area of electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and will enhance greatly our existing graduate programs in automotive systems engineering.”

Under the framework of the Center, at least seven new graduate courses will be developed in the areas of power electronics, energy storage and energy conversion systems, and four existing courses in the powertrain concentration and vehicle electronics concentration will be revised.

The Center will involve nine faculty members across three departments and create at least five graduate student fellowships annually over the next five years. Faculty members will guide research projects with participation by graduate students in electric drive vehicle (EDV) areas.

The research will focus on the thrust areas that are crucial to the development and commercialization of EDVs. The research is aimed at developing innovative technologies and solutions that will speed up the commercialization of EDVs. Faculty members will actively collaborate in course and curriculum development, laboratory improvement, graduate research and capstone project supervision, research proposal development, and other Center activities.

In addition to the funding from the DOE, the Center will benefit from cost share from many industry partners.

“Industry participation and support is another unique feature of the new Center and key to the success of the newly developed GATE center,” Mi said. “Eight companies are currently involved in the Center with cash or in-kind support, and we are expecting more participation from the industry.”

DOE’s GATE initiative will award $6.4 million over the course of five years to support seven Centers of Excellence at American colleges, universities and university-affiliated research institutions. The awardees will focus on three critical automotive technology areas: hybrid propulsion, energy storage, and lightweight materials.

By funding curriculum development and expansion as well as laboratory work, GATE allows higher education institutions to develop multidisciplinary training. As a result, GATE promotes the development of a skilled workforce of engineering professionals who will overcome technical barriers and help commercialize the next generation of advanced automotive technologies.

Founded in 1959 with a gift of just over 200 acres of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company, University of Michigan-Dearborn is a metropolitan university serving southeastern Michigan, committed to excellence rooted in strong academics, innovative research and programming and civic engagement. The University has nearly 8,900 students pursuing more than 100 bachelor's, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees in liberal arts and sciences, engineering, business and education.  A top-ranked university with a faculty devoted to teaching, and students committed to achievement, UM-Dearborn has been shaped by its history of partnering with local leaders and communities, and is committed to finding solutions for the challenges that face the region.

###

Contact:
Beth Marmarelli
UM-Dearborn
313-593-5542
bethmar@umd.umich.edu