WMU Announces Fan Advisory Committee

In an effort to create a new level of engagement with the WMU fan base and community, the Western Michigan University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is pleased to announce the introduction of the WMU Fan Advisory Committee.
The purpose of the committee is to not only engage our dedicated fans by gaining valuable feedback from the group as it relates to the overall fan experience, but also keeping in mind those we serve:

• Bronco Student-Athletes
• Bronco Fans/Alumni/Supporters
• Bronco Staff & Coaches

The dialogue and feedback from the group will be utilized to enhance the overall fan experience at all WMU athletic events across the board.
 
"The fan engagement committee is a great reflection of the priority we place on our fans, supporters and the local community" WMU Director of Athletics, Dan Bartholomae said.  "We can't wait to learn from your experiences as we strive to create energizing events that support our student-athlete's experience.  Thanks in advance to the members of Bronco Nation that apply for this important volunteer leadership opportunity."

The group will meet 5-7 times per calendar year and feedback is encouraged on each of the University's five ticketed programs (football, volleyball, men's and women's basketball and hockey), in addition to other WMU sports and events.

 "The fan engagement committee will provide us the opportunity to learn from our fans on how we can provide a better game day experience that is exciting and memorable for not only our student-athletes, but for all our fans and supporters as well" said Senior Associate AD for External Operations, Elaine Russell.

Interested individuals can apply for consideration by completing the online application form, but must be at least 18-years-old to join the group. Online applications are currently being accepted online through May 27. The committee members will be announced in early June.

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Fan Advisory Committee FAQs
Why was this created?
We understand that a vibrant, exciting and engaging game day experience is critical to our fans and we recognize that the experiences our fans have at our sporting events can be improved. We hope the Fan Advisory Committee can serve as a platform for our fans to offer perspectives from their own experiences which will assist WMU Athletics with the evaluation and enhancement of the fan experience at our events. We need to know where we are succeeding, along with where opportunities for improvement exist. We know we can enhance aspects around our athletics events and we look forward to the ideas, opinions and feedback generated through our productive conversations.
 
Who can be on the Fan Advisory Committee?
Almost anyone can be on the Fan Advisory Committee. We will look for anyone at least 18-years-old to join the group. Our hope is to find a cross-section of our fans that ranges in age, connection to WMU, proximity to campus, fans of various sports, etc.
 
Do I have to be a season-ticket holder to be on the Fan Advisory Committee?
No, you do not need to be a season-ticket holder to be on WMU's Fan Advisory Committee. In fact, we would prefer there be a mix of members who are not season ticket holders so we may gain the perspective of people who have never been season ticket holders, or have stopped being season ticket holders but are still fans of the Broncos.
 
What type of time commitment is there to this group?
We would meet 5-7 times per year on WMU's campus or in the surrounding Kalamazoo community. Those not in the immediate Kalamazoo region may have the option to meet via Zoom as needed.
 
What will be the purpose of our meetings?
When we meet, we will discuss any issues that arose from the previous meeting, recent items relating to the experience with WMU athletics (ticket buying, parking, ushers, concessions, bathrooms, in-game promotions, communications with the public, etc.) as well as share plans the athletics department has about future initiatives. Guest speakers may also include WMU administrators, head coaches and student-athletes.
 
How long of a term will I serve on the Fan Advisory Committee?
We are asking for a commitment of two years.