Spring 2008 Cover Story

Great Minds

Entrepreneurial Spirit Abounds at UDM
Alumni shine as examples of innovative leaders, while UDM shifts into high gear to develop a minor in technological entrepreneurship

University of Detroit Mercy alumni live in all corners of the world building successful careers, contributing positively to their professions and communities, leaving their own mark on society in ways big and small. Some earn fame and fortune within their industries. For the late Bob Kearns ’52, Hollywood has come knocking.
A native Detroiter, Kearns’ life story has been turned into a major motion picture featuring movie stars Greg Kinnear and Alan Alda. On October 25, Kearns will be portrayed on the big screen in the movie Flash of Genius. Kinnear will play Kearns who, in 1967 took out patents on his invention, the intermittent windshield wiper. According to his daughter, Maureen, her father suffered from poor vision and set out to make driving in the rain less hazardous. Kearns impressed the automotive companies but tangled with them over the rights to develop the car part. It is his passion and determination to acquire the credit he deserved for this invention that will be captured on film, recognizing Kearns’ place as a pivotal contributor to the automotive industry. (Kearns passed away in February 2005).
The spotlight on Kearns coincides with the development of a new minor at UDM specifically focused on entrepreneurship. The new minor will encourage students to think outside of the box as it becomes increasingly critical for the world—and Michigan—to face the challenges of a changing global marketplace.