EMU Today

YPSILANTI – When a teen with a critical condition told Make-A-Wish® Michigan that his wish was tuition assistance to attend Eastern Michigan University (EMU), both organizations knew they had to make it happen.

Now, as the Fall 2019 semester begins, the teen’s dream is becoming a reality as he enters Eastern Michigan University as a freshman after applying and being accepted to the institution. Make-A-Wish Michigan is granting his wish by contributing $6,000 toward the teen’s tuition, while Eastern Michigan University is offering a $6,000 Emerald Scholarship to help cover tuition costs.

“Eastern Michigan University takes great pride in being an institution of opportunity, and nowhere is that more evident than our work with Make-A-Wish Michigan to fulfill the educational dreams of a young man with a critical medical condition,” said Eastern Michigan University President James Smith. “We are honored the teen’s wish is to further his education here, and we are thankful to Make-A-Wish Michigan and our partners that have helped make his wish come true. We look forward to giving him the best college experience possible.” 

In addition to the tuition assistance he is receiving, Eastern Michigan University also worked with some of its partners to provide additional benefits, including Fall 2019 and Winter 2020 meal plans, courtesy of Chartwells, one year of free parking permits with an estimated $480 value courtesy of Park EMU/Laz Parking, as well as assorted Eastern Michigan University gear, courtesy of Follett with the EMU Bookstore, and Eastern Eagles gear to wear at sporting events courtesy of Eastern Michigan University Athletics - which are free for students - as well as free admission for the student’s family if they would like to attend.

 “We are delighted to team up with Eastern Michigan University and its partners to make this teen’s wish of furthering his education come true,” said Sherri Collins, vice president of marketing and brand advancement for Make-A-Wish Michigan. “The wishes we grant provide unforgettable and transformational experiences for wish kids and families, and we know that his college experience will be just that.”

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 18,000 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. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.

About Make-A-Wish® Michigan

Since 1984, Make-A-Wish® Michigan has granted more than 10,000 wishes to Michigan children with critical illnesses. Based in Brighton, Mich., with an office in Grand Rapids, Make-A-Wish Michigan is funded through community support. Visit www.michigan.wish.org to learn more.