The new supplemental funding includes $30 million dollars for GVSU’s Blue Dot Lab, which will create a pipeline of students focusing on data analytics and computer skills. University President Philomena Mantella agrees higher education must meet the changing needs of business and calls the funding a groundbreaking investment in Michigan’s economy.
“The digital transformation that is impacting every industry requires education, skills training, and a new level of competency.”
The Blue Dot Lab will also provide opportunities for collaboration with tech businesses. Mantella says it will transform the way GVSU uses data science, AI and computer technology to create new opportunities.
” Every GVSU graduate in our growing and diverse campus community will have digital literacy, real-world experiences, and the capacity to immediately contribute.”
Other projects funded in the bills include centers for entrepreneurship and innovation at Northern Michigan University and U of M Flint, tech and engineering buildings at Eastern Michigan University and Mott and Macomb Community Colleges, and science buildings at Oakland University and Saginaw Valley State.
