Kalamazoo, Mich. — Western Michigan University has announced a new partnership with the Detroit Lions, making WMU the Lions’ official educational partner for the next three years. This partnership will be celebrated at Ford Field during the Lions’ Monday Night Football game against the Seattle Seahawks.
A special pre-game ceremony will feature Western student Brian Cross, a cybersecurity major and Renaissance High School graduate, receiving the Detroit Lions Western Michigan University Service Award, which includes a $5,000 scholarship. This award is given in recognition of Cross’ significant community service efforts, including his work with Gleaners Food Bank, mentoring foster youth, and participating in the USGA Junior Amateur Championship. In addition, he is a leader in his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Upsilon, and serves as the treasurer of the WMU National Pan-Hellenic Council.
Through this partnership, Western Michigan University aims to enhance its connection with its alumni and current and potential students in the Detroit metropolitan area, which hosts nearly 47,000 WMU alumni. Ford Field will serve as a venue for various admissions and alumni events throughout the partnership.
The collaboration will also focus on engaging Detroit high school students to inspire them to consider attending Western Michigan University. Further details on these initiatives will be announced later in the season.
“We are incredibly excited to join forces with the Detroit Lions to champion educational opportunities and initiatives in Detroit,” said Kristen DeVries, WMU vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the WMU Foundation. “This partnership embodies our commitment to supporting our students and alumni, while strengthening ties with Lions fans across the region and beyond. As ‘One Pride,’ we look forward to a successful collaboration and a great season ahead.”
Roxanne Caine, vice president of the Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This is an opportunity to uplift students from Detroit while recognizing their academic and community achievements.”
With Ford Field’s capacity of 65,000, the Lions’ games will also attract a national audience as they pursue a potential Super Bowl bid this season. Fans attending the games or watching from home will see Western Michigan University’s advertisements prominently displayed around the field. The University plans to use Detroit Lions branding in various co-branding initiatives to boost its visibility among the team’s fans.
About Western Michigan University:
At Western Michigan University, each student is seen as unique, with their passions and purpose celebrated. The University is dedicated to providing an experience-driven education that prepares students for meaningful careers. Nine out of ten graduates find employment soon after graduation, thriving in their chosen fields. WMU alumni include Grammy winners, Super Bowl champions, doctors, teachers, and pilots, all of whom contribute positively to society. Western Michigan University is where students become the best versions of themselves.
About the Detroit Lions: