ɫ����Ƶ

The ɫ����Ƶ/GMI Alumni Association (KGMIAA) announced today it has awarded $30,000 in sponsorships to more than 60 Michigan high school robotics teams participating in FIRST, VEX, and FTC programs. The initiative reflects a core value that drives ɫ����Ƶ: equipping young problem solvers with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to shape the future.

The sponsorships provide resources for students to build robots, compete, and deepen their STEM experience. These students are following a hands-on path that mirrors the journeys of many ɫ����Ƶ and GMI alumni who began their careers with an early passion for STEM.

“We are incredibly proud to support these bright, motivated students who are exploring their interests in engineering and technology through hands-on experience,” said Joe Lemieux ’85, outgoing president of the KGMIAA. “Many of us — alumni of ɫ����Ƶ and GMI — can trace our own careers back to the formative experiences we had in high school and early college. These sponsorships not only provide the students with the resources to excel in their robotics competitions but also encourage their growth in STEM fields as they prepare for their future careers. These efforts also allow us to raise awareness of ɫ����Ƶ as a leading institution for STEM education and open the door for many students to consider us as the next step in their academic journey.”

KGMIAA’s sponsorships go beyond financial support. The Association also recognizes alumni who dedicate their time and expertise to mentor high school robotics teams, serving as coaches and advisors. This hands-on mentorship ensures students have guidance as they navigate competitions and plan their futures in STEM fields.

“We owe a great deal of thanks to our alumni who volunteer as coaches and mentor the next generation of robotics enthusiasts,” said Lorenzo Jones ’89, incoming president of the KGMIAA. “Their dedication to supporting their high school alma maters or their children’s teams is invaluable, and it’s inspiring to see how they continue to give back to their community. At the same time, these sponsorships introduce students to ɫ����Ƶ’s outstanding programs, creating opportunities for them to envision their future here with us.”

For ɫ����Ƶ and its alumni, this initiative underscores a commitment to investing in young innovators, providing them with experiences that build confidence, technical expertise, and a passion for tackling real-world challenges.

For a complete list of robotics teams that received a 2025 KGMIAA sponsorship, visit /robotics/kgmiaa-sponsorships.

About the ɫ����Ƶ/GMI Alumni Association
The ɫ����Ƶ/GMI Alumni Association (KGMIAA) unites alumni in support of ɫ����Ƶ’s mission to advance STEM education and innovation. With a focus on fostering lifelong loyalty, promoting core values, and providing financial support, the KGMIAA serves as a key resource for University leadership and alumni engagement. Membership is automatic for all graduates of ɫ����Ƶ/GMI, with no membership fees required. The KGMIAA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Learn more at kettering.edu/alumni.