In 2008, Michigan was once again named the national leader in job losses. In the midst of Michigan’s failing economy, Cornerstone has found a way to try to change the statistics.

On March 10, during CU’s spring break, a career and education fair was held in the field house of the Bernice Hansen athletic facility.

This was Cornerstone’s first ever annual career and education fair. The free event was open to the public and jointly sponsored by CU’s Professional & Graduate Studies and traditional undergraduate programs.

James Link, director of corporate relations for Professional & Graduate Studies, coordinated the event.

“The fair was mainly aimed toward working adults. No other colleges were invited,” Link said.

Link said a reason for students to attend the fair was if they were seeking employment or additional education, including the completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

He also said unemployment in Michigan is currently at 11.6 percent, “and many job seekers need to retool their skills through additional education.” Unemployment has since increased to 12 percent.

The event was hosted by PGS and undergraduate programs. The businesses present were available to speak and answer questions with prospective working adults and high school students.

The fair included six local businesses, although approximately 40 were invited. These businesses arrived at Cornerstone seeking prime career candidates.

Attendees were encouraged to bring their resumes and portfolio information and come with questions.

The fair was designed to help students and adults look for an internship or job for the spring or summer.

The career fair was also designed to open opportunities to people who would not normally find a job without the fair.

Since 2002, Michigan has lost about 19 percent of its manufacturing jobs, 17 percent of its construction jobs, 12 percent of its natural resources and mining jobs, 11 percent of its information jobs and lesser losses in financial activities, professional and business services and government (michiganvotes.org).

The career and education fair was aimed at changing the path of Michigan’s bad reputation of high unemployment rates by offering job opportunities to the unemployed.