8 | ANNUAL REPORT 2017 9 | ANNUAL REPORT 2017 The Business Engagement Center advances research, education and economic development by partnering with businesses to give them access to UM-Dearborn’s vast resources. Our strong ties to industry help us connect companies with faculty expertise and establish partnerships for collaborative research and sponsored projects. Businesses can recruit students for internships and co-ops; sponsor an event, student organizations or other opportunities; donate goods and services; or work with us to develop strategic philanthropic initiatives. PARTNERSHIPS. KEYBANK SUPPORTS ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK EXPERIENCE FOR UM-DEARBORN STUDENTS The Opportunity Scholars Program at UM-Dearborn was created to help high achieving students from economically disadvantaged communities to be successful in college. In addition to awarding financial scholarships, the program utilizes a comprehensive supportive approach to better serve students, resulting in increased retention and graduation rates. Enabled by the support and generosity of KeyBank, the Opportunity Scholars program sent seven students on an Alternative Spring Break trip to Cleveland. Students were able to volunteer and serve at various non- profit organizations including Providence House, Educational Non-Profits, Red Line Greenway, and a local food bank. UM-Dearborn students were not only able to serve communities in Cleveland, but also learn ways they can implement these same initiatives in Metro Detroit. Additionally, the students engaged in professional development and met with young leaders working in their fields of interest, as well as gathered information related to internship opportunities. Karina Nava, then a freshman Opportunity Scholar, was one of the participants. “The trip was amazing,” Nava said. “But my favorite part was the time we had at the end of the day to reflect; it was then we realized the impact we were making and how we could continue making that impact in our own community.” “Key Bank is committed to community services and to supporting education,” said Robert Downey (’01 B.B.A.), vice president, KeyBank business banking, a UM-Dearborn alumnus who helped make the connection. “Alternative Spring Break is a transformative experience for students and a project we are proud to be involved in,” he said. “We know that so much learning takes place outside of the classroom during projects like these. Experiences like these help prepare students for career and personal success, which, in turn, benefits our community and something we are proud to invest in.” “...my favorite part was the time we had at the end of the day to reflect; it was then we realized the impact we were making and how we could continue making that impact in our own community.”