Julie Messing leaves a legacy of connection, innovation and student impact at CMU

Julie Messing didn’t plan a career in higher education, but once she found it, she shaped it in ways that would leave a lasting mark on thousands of students. With a foundation in business and entrepreneurship and a clear sense of purpose, she built her work around helping others discover their potential and take meaningful action.

That purpose came into focus during her time at Kent State University, where she led the launch of several transformative entrepreneurship initiatives that continue to thrive today. Her work included establishing the Center for Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation within the College of Business, launching the Blackstone LaunchPad program (now LaunchNET), and serving as an initiator and core team member in the development of the Design Innovation Hub—while also helping strengthen the broader entrepreneurship ecosystem across Northeast Ohio. Together, these efforts have served more than 2,500 students, creating opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship and real-world application.

When Messing joined Central Michigan University, she stepped into a role that allowed her to both build and stay closely connected to students, a combination that became a defining strength of her work. She approached program development through the lens of student experience, ensuring that initiatives were grounded in curiosity, relevance and real-world engagement. In the classroom, that translated into a collaborative environment where ideas flowed in both directions and students were active participants in their learning.

One of her most visible contributions is the creation of the Idea Den, a space designed to bring students together to collaborate, experiment and connect. Today, it serves as a hub of student activity, where ideas are explored, projects take shape and relationships are built across disciplines. It reflects her belief that innovation thrives in community and that students do their best work when they feel a sense of belonging.

While programs and spaces are an important part of her legacy, Messing consistently points to student growth as the most meaningful outcome of her work. Over time, she has watched students move from uncertainty to confidence, finding their voice, stepping into leadership and embracing new opportunities. Following the disruption of the pandemic, she and her colleagues placed renewed emphasis on rebuilding connection through intentional engagement, helping students re-engage and move forward with confidence.

"I’ve always believed that when students are given the space, support and encouragement to explore their ideas, they begin to see what they’re capable of,” Messing said. “Watching that growth, the moment they realize their own potential, is what has made this work so meaningful.”

As she prepares to step away from her role, Messing is turning her attention toward family, personal well-being and a new chapter shaped by intention and discovery. She and her husband look forward to spending more time with family and friends, along with opportunities to travel, volunteer and remain engaged in meaningful ways.

Messing’s impact on the College of Business Administration will continue through the programs she helped build and the culture she helped shape, one centered on connection, curiosity and student growth. Her contributions have been recognized with the Jeff Thomas Oak Award, honoring her leadership and commitment to advancing the university’s entrepreneurial mission.

“Julie Messing’s selection as the Jeff Thomas Oak Award recipient is a fitting reflection of the leadership, care and innovation she has brought to CMU,” said Dean Chris Moberg. “She has helped students build confidence, expanded opportunities across campus and strengthened our entrepreneurial community.”

Colleagues also point to her lasting influence on both students and the broader university community.  “Julie connected with students in meaningful ways and consistently created opportunities for them to grow,” said Entrepreneurship Department Chair Spenser Robinson. “She leaves a legacy of student impact, collaboration and a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem at CMU.”

As she concludes her time at CMU, the foundation she helped build will continue through the students she influenced and the community she helped create, one grounded in connection, confidence and possibility.