EMU Today

YPSILANTI —  The latest episode of EMU Today TV provides an inside look at the development of an innovative new EMU video podcast focusing on student emotional well-being, “Enlighten U,” and a new six-month program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to enter the field of cybersecurity. 

The segment about “Enlighten U” features EMU Professor of Public Relations Lolita Cummings and Executive Director of Media Relations and Social Media Melissa Thrasher, who jointly co-host the new video podcast. 

“Enlighten U” was developed for students in order to provide first-hand information about student mental and emotional well-being, widely considered a crisis in the United States. In every month’s video podcast, an EMU student is interviewed by the two co-hosts along with a noted mental health professional. During the interview, the student shares their journey and learns about insight, strategies, and resources that apply to many students facing similar challenges. “Enlighten U” can be found on EMU’s YouTube Channel and all major podcast platforms.

The segment about the new “Fundamentals of Cybersecurity” certificate program features Dean Mohamad Qatu of Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. 

Students in the program, which will begin in March 2024, receive practical, relevant, and timely instruction from faculty in EMU's nationally recognized cybersecurity program and industry experts. Tailored for working adults, the Fundamentals of Cybersecurity certificate provides a flexible learning environment with a convenient evening and weekend schedule. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields today. The new cybersecurity program is one component of a $1.6 million gift from the GameAbove alumni group to the College of Engineering and Technology.

Now in its seventh season, EMU Today TV, produced by the University’s Division of Communications, highlights positive programs, events and initiatives at Eastern.

Mark S. Lee is the host of EMU Today TV. Lee is an Eastern Michigan University alumnus and part-time lecturer of marketing at Eastern. He is the host of the podcast, "In the Conference Room", and is featured in a weekly business segment, "Strictly Business", on CBS News Detroit. Lee also is a frequent contributor to various Detroit-area media outlets on business topics. 

This episode and previous editions can be viewed on the University's YouTube channel.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.