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KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Four Western ��һ�鶹��Ƭ�� University students majoring in food marketing have been awarded scholarships from (GMR) of Grand Rapids. Aidan Paciorek, Katie Pesola, Allison Quick and Evan Raches were recognized by the organization for their excellence in academics and passion for the food marketing industry.

These students are making their mark on the food marketing program at Western, serving on the executive board of the Food Marketing Association, representing the Haworth College of Business at conferences and excelling in their classes. Receiving these scholarships not only makes a great financial impact on the students, but also affirms the effort they have put into their coursework and pursuing their professional goals. 

“Winning this scholarship has great significance for me. It’s not only about the financial support, but also a sign of the hard work I have put into my college studies so far,” says Raches. “It gives me motivation to continue doing my very best and will serve as a reminder that perseverance and dedication are always worth it.” 

Quick credits her participation in the Food Marketing Association as something that has made the greatest impact on her success as a student. “Having the opportunity to take on a leadership role and collaborate with a team of students has pushed me to grow both professionally and personally.”

Paciorek and Pesola also speak highly of the program leadership and specifically, Dr. Russell Zwanka, director of the food marketing program. Paciorek says, “Dr. Zwanka has had a great impact on my success at WMU. The mentorship he provides has helped me grow as a student and as a person.” 

Pesola echoes that sentiment. “Dr. Zwanka has provided constant support of my education and experiences. He opened my eyes to a program I never knew existed and welcomed me into it.” 

Zwanka celebrates the hard work and success of these students. “We sincerely appreciate GMR and the financial support provided by these scholarships. I’m sure it was a tough decision to choose the winners from the many who applied. I’m certain that these four students represent the best of our food marketing program at WMU. All four will be industry leaders as their careers unfold, and I can’t wait to watch them do big things!”

Meet the Recipients

Aidan Paciorek is a senior from Grand Rapids, ��һ�鶹��Ƭ��. He is a member of the Food Marketing Association and has held a variety of roles on the executive board, including director and vice president of social events, as well as his upcoming role of president. During his time at WMU Haworth, he has participated in a variety of opportunities, including trips to the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) conference in Chicago, National Association of Convenience Stores show in Georgia, and Natural Products Expo West in California. Paciorek has also interned at SpartanNash and Meijer and will be studying abroad in August on the Food Marketing in Ireland trip. He is a member of the Lee Honors College and has been named to the dean’s list every semester. 

Katie Pesola is a junior from Huntley, Illinois. She is a member of the Food Marketing Association, where she serves as vice president of student engagement. In 2023, she participated in the Natural Products Expo West, PLMA and Sweet and Salty conferences. Pesola has completed an internship at Lynns Superfoods and is currently working as an intern for Daymon. In addition, she will be studying abroad in August on the Food Marketing in Ireland trip. She has also been named to the dean’s list every semester.

Allison Quick is a senior from Dearborn, ��һ�鶹��Ƭ��. She is active in the Food Marketing Association where she has held the position of executive vice president. Quick has spoken at five industry-related conferences, was a member of the 2023 National Grocers Association case study competition team and serves as an honorary student board member on the Women Grocers of America board of directors. She has completed internships at Kroger and PepsiCo. She has been named to the dean’s list every semester and has received the Food Marketing Association Distinguished Service Award.

Evan Raches is a junior from St. Joseph, ��һ�鶹��Ƭ��. He is a member of the Food Marketing Association where he currently serves as the executive vice president. This summer, Evan is working as a merchandising intern with Meijer and will be studying abroad in August on the Food Marketing in Ireland trip. He is a member of the Lee Honors College and has been named to the dean’s list every semester. 

Learn more about food marketing at WMU.

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