KALAMAZOO (WKZO-AM) — Western Michigan University is planning to extend some of its high-demand academic programs into southwest Florida.
“(We want to) expand our flight academic program to that area, (we’re) looking at additional health and human service clinical experiences for our students, and we’re, ultimately, looking at other programs,” WMU spokesperson Cheryl Roland said.
WMU wants to build a hangar at the airport in Punta Gorda and rent classrooms from Florida Southwestern State College. They have petitioned the Florida Board of Education for the additional clearance.
Roland also said the school also wants to boost its brand presence nationally.
“We have an enormous alumni base down there,” Roland said. “They’re so excited about even the idea that we’ll be down there.”
Trustees capped off two years of discussions by agreeing to sign the application Tuesday night. WMU already operates Cooley Law School near Tampa.
The school isn’t sure when they’ll hear back from the state’s education board.
– Anthony Pollreisz
