Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has received a significant contribution from Whirlpool Corporation, amounting to $45,000, aimed at supporting scholarships and programs. The donation includes ten $2,500 scholarships under the Whirlpool Brotherhood Sisterhood Scholars Scholarship for students in the Brotherhood Sisterhood Scholars Program. This initiative targets students transitioning from their freshman to sophomore year who meet specific academic criteria.

The Brotherhood Sisterhood Scholars Program is housed within EMU's Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. It aims to assist first-year students in their transition to higher education and adulthood. The program is open to all students but holds particular significance for those from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds.

In addition to these scholarships, the Eastern Michigan University Black Alumni (EMUBA) Endowed Scholarship has also benefited from a $10,000 gift from Whirlpool. "The Black Alumni Chapter is ecstatic to have the generous donation to our endowed scholarship," said Shetina Jones, PhD, president of the chapter. "This will benefit our EMU Eagles and help them persist towards graduation."

Whirlpool's funding extends beyond scholarships; it also supports student activities such as EMU Black Homecoming events. A $10,000 contribution will sponsor this year's homecoming activities themed “A Family Reunion,” including the Black Alumni Mixer and The Divine Nine Game Day Kickoff March.

Dwight Hamilton, EMU chief diversity officer expressed gratitude saying, “On behalf of the university, I’d like to thank Whirlpool for their generosity.” He emphasized that this gift supports crucial diversity-focused programs that aid students in achieving their educational goals.

Asia Wimbush-Sherrod of Whirlpool stated: “We are pleased to work with top educational institutions like Eastern Michigan University as part of our ongoing commitment to cultivating an inclusive and diverse workforce.”

Further details about these initiatives can be found on the Brotherhood and Sisterhood Scholars Program and EMUBA websites.