Kalamazoo, Mich. – Western Michigan University has announced an exciting new partnership with the Detroit Lions, becoming the team’s official educational partner. This innovative three-year collaboration will be commemorated at Ford Field during the Lions’ Monday Night Football game against the Seattle Seahawks.
As part of the celebration, Western student Brian Cross, a cybersecurity major and alumnus of Renaissance High School in Detroit, will be honored with the Detroit Lions Western Michigan University Service Award. Cross will receive a $5,000 scholarship in recognition of his significant community service and leadership efforts, which include his work with Gleaners Food Bank, mentoring foster youth, and participating in the USGA Junior Amateur Championship. He also serves as a leader in his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Upsilon, and is the treasurer of the WMU National PanHellenic Council.
This partnership seeks to enhance Western Michigan University’s engagement with its alumni, current students, and potential students in the Detroit area, boasting nearly 47,000 alumni. Ford Field will serve as a venue for various Western admissions and alumni activities as a result of this collaboration.
In addition to connecting with the Bronco community in downtown Detroit, the University intends to work with the Lions to inspire high school students in Detroit to consider becoming future Broncos. More detailed plans will be announced later this season.
Kristen DeVries, WMU vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the WMU Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are incredibly excited to join forces with the Detroit Lions to champion educational opportunities and initiatives in Detroit. This partnership brings together two winning teams and exemplifies the University’s commitment to our current and future students as well as Western alumni and Lions fans across the region, the state, and nationally. As ‘One Pride,’ we eagerly anticipate a successful collaboration and a fantastic season ahead.”
Roxanne Caine, vice president of the Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations, also expressed her excitement about the partnership, highlighting the opportunity to support and recognize the achievements of students from Detroit.
Ford Field, with a capacity of 65,000, will not only host fans but also reach a national audience as the Lions pursue a potential Super Bowl bid in games broadcast throughout the season. Attendees at the stadium and viewers tuning in will notice Western Michigan University’s advertising prominently displayed around the field. The University will also leverage the Detroit Lions branding for various co-branding initiatives to elevate its visibility among the Lions’ fan base.
Western Michigan University is known for celebrating the unique passions of its students and empowering them to achieve their goals through a purpose-driven education. With high employment rates among graduates across various fields, WMU students continue to make significant contributions in numerous professions, including those who have achieved Grammy awards, Super Bowl championships, and impactful roles in education and healthcare.