(WXYZ) — Eastern Michigan University has teamed up with global esports organization Gen.G to initiate a multi-year esports program.
The program includes a Futures Program, High School Invitational and Women in Gaming Summer Camp.
“We’re proud to be the first in Michigan to truly integrate esports and gaming into our campus life and offer our students a platform to find a community here,” said Calvin Phillips, associate vice president for Student Affairs at Eastern Michigan University. “We know how important selecting a college or university is for a student, and we want to differentiate ourselves with a meaningful opportunity and educational platform at EMU.”
Kicking off Wednesday the EMU + Gen.G Futures Program is a 30-day social media relay on Instagram and Twitter highlighting student success stories with current students and alumni across business, technology, gaming and athletics. Gen.G will also host discussions on Discord.
“It’s so incredibly exciting to see my alma mater recognize the power of gaming and esports with today’s students,” said Zach Wigal, founder of Gamers Outreach Foundation. “We’ve seen first hand through our philanthropic mission how much our gaming community, especially students, wants to connect with one another. I can’t wait to see our Eagles rally around this program.”
In June and July, the High School Invitational will activate with Super Smash Bros. tournaments every two weeks hosted by EMU. High schools in the region will challenge the EMU Super Smash Club in friendly competitions to be streamed live on Twitch and will interact via Discord.
In August, EMU will initiate a Women in Gaming program dubbed “Gamer Girls Getting It Done,” including a three-day digital camp on June 15-17, July 6-8 and August 10-12. Topics will include lessons from top women in the industry, tips from streamers and pros and insights on producing esports events.
