YPSILANTI (November 11, 2019) – GameAbove, a group of dedicated Eastern Michigan University alumni with various academic and professional backgrounds, today announced its initial $3.5 million gift to the University to support faculty development as well as the academic and program needs of current and future students.

The lump-sum cash gift provides the platform for two new initiatives: “GameAbove, Faculty First” and “Students Matter Most.” GameAbove is designating $2 million to support all levels of Eastern Michigan University faculty (assistant, associate and full professors) across all five academic colleges (Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; and, Health and Human Services) and the University Library by providing additional resources for faculty development and retention. The additional $1.5 million is focused on students.

“It is our intent to help the University support faculty development and to offer a clear focus on research, entrepreneurship, creative work and innovation when it comes to education and investment in our faculty and students alike,” said Denis Wolcott, spokesperson for GameAbove. “We have a long-range vision to sustain and enhance the high-achieving uniqueness that is EMU.”

GameAbove is a team of passionate Eastern Michigan University alumni who desire to make a difference for the University. The team includes a diverse group from all ages and backgrounds including former EMU student-athletes, current entrepreneurs and successful businesspeople, and Hall of Famers and select EMU coaches.

“Eastern’s faculty had a significant positive impact on all GameAbove founders and advisory members. Our goal is to give back in many ways, from supporting the incredible and respected faculty at Eastern, enhancing the learning experience and contributing to the University’s next era of innovation,” Wolcott said.

GameAbove will be focused on supporting and funding other key EMU programs and initiatives including enhancing athletic programs, creating state-of-the-art student facilities, and providing entrepreneurial and innovation support for students. GameAbove is dedicated toward ongoing gifting efforts and will continue to evaluate opportunities to further enhance EMU’s overall excellence.

“Eastern Michigan University is very grateful both for this initial and substantial gift as well as the long-range vision from GameAbove to support the university in many innovative ways,” said Provost Rhonda Longworth. “We look forward to a very collaborative effort from these grateful alumni.”

The “GameAbove, Faculty First” initiative will support a broad range of activities, including but not limited to: Reassigned time from teaching for scholarly, creative, and innovative endeavors; conference presentations; travel; hiring of research assistants; purchase of special equipment or supplies for teaching, scholarly, research, creative, or innovative activities; development of a grant proposal for external funding; and, similar or related academic activities.

The “Students Matter Most” initiative will focus on providing financial resources for learning clubs, intramural sports, student government and student organization priorities, as well as solutions for student homelessness and housing insecurity, among other near-term needs.

Under gift parameters provided by GameAbove, the Office of the Provost in the Division of Academic and Student Affairs will administer the faculty and student programs.

About GameAbove

At GameAbove, our primary focus is to help shape, inspire and support the current and future students of Eastern Michigan University by reaching new heights in learning through transformation and inspiration in the educational experience. Together, we will strive for that next level of success with a GameAbove all others. The GameAbove family of organizations will also help improve the higher education experience by exploring and supporting the use of innovative financial models to sustain universities, creative giving within the community, enhancing the campus environment, elevating athletics and promoting pioneering academic programs. www.gameabove.com

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 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.