Dr. Merze Tate knew that knowledge was the key that would open the door to countless possibilities—and she refused to let anything stand in the way of achieving her dreams. Growing up on a farm in rural Michigan, Dr. Tate walked three miles to school each way every day. She was named valedictorian, but due to racial prejudice, had difficulty finding a university that would allow her to attend.
WMU President Waldo embodied “so that all may learn” when he not only accepted her without hesitation, but also gave her a scholarship and helped her find employment. Dedicated and determined, Dr. Tate finished her bachelor's degree at Western State Teachers College in three years instead of four with the highest academic record in the College's history at that time, becoming the first Black woman to receive a bachelor's degree from the institution.
Inspired by her namesake, Merze Tate College aims to collaboratively empower every student to reach their highest potential and provide them with ways to seize success, thrive in all dimensions of their well-being and lay the foundation for a prosperous future.
In addition to serving as the hub for functionally centralized academic advising, the college will serve as home to students in the Exploratory Advising and University Studies programs, as well as a variety of student support units such as:
- Office of Student Transitions
- Center for Academic Success Programs
- Student Success Services
- Career and Student Employment Services
- WMU Essential Studies
“Western Michigan University was the beneficiary of the brilliance, leadership and example of Dr. Tate. Naming University College in honor of this trailblazer is a fitting tribute to her legacy, service and advocacy—particularly for students of color,” said Dr. Deveta Gardner, associate dean of Merze Tate College. “We hope to continue to live up to the ideas Dr. Tate embodied through the work of the college in the delivery of the important services we provide our students.”
About one in 10 first- and second-year students at Western are undecided on their major, and more than 2,000 students change majors every year. Merze Tate College sets WMU apart from many institutions by offering programs and services that seek to empower these students by normalizing the process of asking for help.
To learn more about Merze Tate College, visit wmich.edu/merzetate.