<i>What does the future of higher education look like in Michigan—and why does it still matter? </i><br /><br />On this episode of West Michigan Weekend, Phil Tower sits down with <b>Russ Kavalhuna</b>, the 10th president of <a href="https://wmich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><b>Western Michigan University</b>,</a> to discuss his unique journey from commercial airline captain and federal prosecutor to university president, and his vision for one of Michigan’s leading public universities.<br /><br />Kavalhuna shares what inspired his early passion for aviation, the experiences that led him into higher education leadership, and the priorities guiding his presidency since taking office in July 2025.<br /><br />The conversation also explores the growing national debate over the value of a college degree, how universities can better align with workforce needs, and the important role higher education plays in developing talent and strengthening Michigan’s economy.<br /><br />In addition, Kavalhuna discusses his work as co-chair of Michigan’s Higher Education Workgroup, efforts to expand college access and opportunity, and why he remains a strong advocate for the transformative impact of higher education.<br /><br />Learn more about Western Michigan University at <b><a href="https://wmich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wmich.edu</a></b>. Additional resources:<br /><ul><li><b><a href="https://wmich.edu/aviation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Western Michigan University College of Aviation</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.hfcc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Henry Ford College</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2023/06/01/whitmer-establishes-the-growing-michigan-together-council-to-focus-on-population-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Growing Michigan Together Council</a></b></li></ul><i>West Michigan Weekend is a weekly public affairs program hosted by Phil Tower and heard across the iHeartRadio West Michigan radio stations and podcast platforms.</i><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />