Michael Hoskins ’77 has stayed connected to his alma mater as he rose to become an entrepreneur and an early expert in the big data industry. His background is in computer programming and systems development. He has served as president of Data Junction Corp., and after leading the sale of the software company to Pervasive Software, he served as its chief technology officer. The company has been sold again, and he continues to serve as chief technology officer for the consolidated company, Actian Corporation.
He has been inducted into BGSU’s Dallas-Hamilton Entrepreneurial Hall of Fame, and is recognized as one of the University’s 100 Most Prominent Alumni.
Hoskins graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance in 1977 from BGSU, where his father, marketing professor Bill Hoskins, developed the first international programs in business. Hoskins speaks three languages, has lived and worked outside of the United States for more than 15 years, and has traveled to more than 100 other nations.
In honor of his father and in recognition of the importance of a global education, Hoskins has established the Hoskins Global Scholar Program, which will support as many as five students annually. Student recipients are granted $5,000 to fund their study abroad and allow them to explore a global academic opportunity to enhance their experience. When the students return to BGSU, they will present the results of their efforts in a symposium designed to share their new understandings across campus. Upon completion of their presentations, they will qualify for an additional $1,000 in support.
To be that launch pad for that student that wants to spring out – to become a global scholar … that is an honor.
