Eastern Michigan University is partnering with esports organization Gen. G to create a multi-year esports program that supports fall academic enrollment goals, connect students and alumni and also includes two major summer initiatives – a High School Invitational and Women in Gaming camps.
And they’re not wasting any time getting started.
Today, the two are launching what they call the EMU + Gen. G Futures Program, a 30-day social media relay on Instagram, Twitter and Discord that will highlight student success stories with current students and alumni across business, technology, gaming and athletics.
“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.”
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Two of the unique partnership’s offerings are coming this summer:
- A massive Super Smash Brothers invitational that will pit the EMU Super Smash Club against high schools throughout June and July, which will be streamed live on Twitch.
- A Women in Gaming program called “Gamer Girls Getting It Done” that will feature three-days camps with lessons, streaming tips and insights from pros on producing events. They will be held June 15-17, July 6-8 and Aug. 10-12. The registration fee is $99.
“It’s really cool EMU wants to help high school students elevate their game and provide a safe place for them to compete while we stay home during the pandemic,” said Oakland Raiders defensive end and former EMU player Maxx Crosby.
EMU is the third major university to partner with Gen.G. The University of Kentucky and University of Pennsylvania have launched similar deals with the global organization, which boasts some of the top esports teams in the world and connects gamers across the United States and Asia.
Those interested in finding out more about the partnership or about the summer programs can visit EMU’s esports website.
Chris Burt is the Esports Editor for University Business magazine and the Program Chair for the Academic Esports Conference and Expo.
