YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University students interested in exploring careers in fermentation can now pursue the first-ever scholarships dedicated to the field. Beginning in the 2025–26 academic year, undergraduate students will be eligible to apply for new Fermentation Science scholarships made possible by a donation from Anne and Jeffrey Kittendorf.
“We are proud to announce these Fermentation Science scholarships,” said Chemistry Professor Cory Emal, director of the Fermentation Science Program. “The funds are intended to support and elevate students pursuing careers in an increasingly competitive fermentation industry.”
The scholarship fund will provide four annual awards of $2,500 each, two for incoming students and two for upper-level students. Recipients will be chosen based on academic merit, demonstrated interest in fermentation science, and financial need.
For students already in the program, the impact of fermentation science extends far beyond the classroom. “You’re in a lab surrounded by food, your head’s full of knowledge, and it magically all clicks,” said EMU senior and fermentation science major Althea Fillman, reflecting on her experience in the advanced Food Fermentation course this semester.
The new scholarship fund reflects the University’s commitment to increasing access to specialized education, attracting top talent, and fostering a more inclusive learning environment.
Eastern’s Fermentation Science Program, launched in 2019, prepares students for careers in brewing, food science, and biotechnology. Students gain hands-on experience in chemistry and microbiology using industry-standard equipment and benefit from collaborations with over 10 Michigan breweries and organizations such as the Michigan Brewers Guild, The Brinery, Bløm Meadworks, and Schramm’s Mead.
Scholarship recipients will be recognized at EMU’s annual awards celebration, providing donors with the opportunity to meet the students and celebrate their achievements.
For more information, visit the EMU Fermentation Science Program website.
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, EMU is the second-oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral, and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences, and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors, and concentrations are delivered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University’s website. To stay up to date on University news, activities, and announcements, visit EMU Today.
September 17, 2025
Written by:
Brittany Mobley
Media Contact:
Brittany Mobley
bmobley1@emich.edu
734-487-4402
Eastern Michigan University Kicks Off Homecoming 2025: “Paint it Green”
Find Information
Eastern Michigan University scholars unearth new insights with mummy research in Peru.
More
Eastern Michigan University’s “Enlighten U” spotlights campus leaders driving mental health and academic success.
More
Honors College to begin their annual Star Lecture series with a visit from Ypsilanti mayor Nicole Brown.
More
Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology earns Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology accreditation, celebrates milestones
Learn more
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI, USA 48197 | 734.487.1849 | Contacts
Non-Discrimination Statement | Policies | Report a Title IX Incident | Accessibility | Privacy Statement | Annual Security Report | Copyright © 2025 Admin Dashboard