Meijer has donated $500,000 to Western Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business Food Marketing Program to support the development of a new hub that helps students grow as professionals and prepares them for careers in the industry.
“At Meijer, we believe that fostering innovation and experiential learning is vital to a thriving food sector,” said Don Sanderson, chief merchandising and marketing officer. “This new hub will empower students with the skills, experiences and connections they need to shape the future of food retail.”
The 2,000-square-foot space will be an innovative learning spot with flexible, collaborative work stations that can be used to host classes or student organizations, with room for more than 75 students.
The new space also houses technology that helps students hone their category management skills. In addition, host companies can train them on food industry skills.
“We are deeply grateful to Meijer for their generous commitment to the advancement of our Food Marketing Program,” said Russell Zwanka, director of the food marketing program at Western Michigan University.
“This partnership not only strengthens our ability to provide innovative, hands-on learning experiences, but also allows our students to become agile leaders in the evolving food industry. This new hub represents a shared vision for excellence, preparing our students to meet marketplace challenges and make meaningful contributions to not only the program, but after they graduate.”
By integrating experiential learning with academic coursework, students in the Western Michigan University Food Marketing Program benefit from real-world exposure and networking opportunities. The curriculum is designed to foster leadership, professional development and a spirit of community service.
For years, Meijer has partnered with Western Michigan University, sharing expertise and real-world insights. By inviting students to their facilities and engaging them in practical activities, Meijer provides hands-on opportunities that bridge academic learning with professional practice.
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