Five students from Eastern Michigan University have been accepted into Google’s Community Leaders Program. Google’s newest volunteer program helps students equip small-and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits to compete in the digital age.
Each student has previous experience in search optimization and digital marketing. The selection process required students to submit written applications and undergo interviews with Google.
EMU students accepted into the program are:
• Mahdi Alkadib
• Patrick Cotter
• Joseph Wendl
• Robert Larson
• Sean Tseng
“I really look forward to helping this company help themselves through knowledge I have, combined with the knowledge of my group members,” Wendl said.
The program began in April 2013 and ends April 2015. EMU, Wayne State University, the University of Michigan-Dearborn and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor are among four Michigan universities Google partnered with.
The idea for the GLP program originated in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, when Google employee Jen Holland pinpointed a significant need for digital literacy in the small business and non-profit community resulting from the tragedy. “The orientation was very exciting and informative,” Alkadib said.
Google Account Strategists Phifer Turner oversees the program. Turner said that one reason EMU was chosen for the program was the degree of preparation their students displayed.
“We’re giving very qualified and hard-working students, who are not coming from elite backgrounds, the opportunity to transform their careers,” said Faison (Bud) P. Gibson, professor and creator of EMU’s Integrated Marketing Communication program.
The students will officially begin the program in the fall of 2015.
