Wayne State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) is forging new paths to expand experiences and career opportunities for its students. A bold new community partnership initiative will create internship opportunities for all CLAS students. In addition to the existing internships through academic departments and WSU Career Services, students now have the opportunity to collaborate with renowned institutions such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum and the Detroit Historical Society, among others. 

Madison Wiljanen never imagined that her journey to graduation would include a global pandemic that impacted her life and chosen profession in such a profound way. In March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold around the world, the 23-year-old was grappling with numerous decisions that struck close to home for the nursing student. Wiljanen's senior year included work in the ICU at Henry Ford Hospital, serving on the university's public health committee and Student Senate, and more. 

Meaningful research has broad impact — and in some cases, a personal connection to a scholar. For Trejha Whitfield, a Ph.D. student and graduate teaching assistant in the Department of Communication, research has become an avenue of personal growth and an opportunity to help empower Black women. As a Black feminist scholar, Whitfield also thrives in educating others on the nuanced ways Black women develop and adapt their cultural identities through their hairstyles. 

Wayne State University released a lineup of more than 80 virtual K-12 offerings for the summer months. Included are programs for young gamers; creative thinkers; explorers; business, medical and science-minded students; and much more. The camps are traditionally held on the university’s Midtown campus, but will continue online this summer, allowing campers to participate from their own homes due to the continued need for social distancing caused by COVID-19.

Twenty-three years ago, doctors told Dunamis Archer’s parents that their newborn baby would likely spend most of his life in a near-vegetative state – unable to walk, talk or even remember his name. Born prematurely at 23 weeks, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Beating the odds not only meant overcoming the physical challenges in the aftermath of a dire diagnosis, but advocating for himself in achieving an education. This spring, Archer will receive a bachelor of arts in communications during Wayne State University’s virtual commencement ceremony.