Supply chain student earns prestigious industry scholarship
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—When Western Michigan University supply chain management student Karen Xospa and her team presented their $50 million growth strategy for Carter's Inc. at the National Retail Federation (NRF) University Case Competition, months of work came down to one high-stakes moment. They became national semifinalists—and more importantly, they discovered what's possible when collaboration meets determination.
That same drive has now earned Xospa, a Macomb, Michigan native, the Transportation Club of Detroit (TCD) scholarship for 2025, an honor that recognizes emerging leaders in transportation and supply chain management. The TCD scholarship is part of $25,000 in total awards given annually to students who demonstrate the highest standards of education and technical competence in transportation and supply chain disciplines. Xospa will accept the $6,000 scholarship at the organization's annual celebration on Oct. 23 at the Detroit Athletic Club.
"What excites me most about supply chain is the constant opportunity to solve complex problems in ways that directly impact people, efficiency and growth," says Xospa. "I've always been drawn to dynamic environments where no two days are the same, and supply chain provides exactly that blend of strategy, creativity, teamwork and real-world impact."
Leadership on campus and beyond
As vice president of the Supply Chain Management Association (SCMA) at WMU, Xospa helps connect students with employers, mentorship and professional development opportunities. She also co-founded the Women Impacting Supply Chain Excellence (WISE) chapter under SCMA at WMU.
"SCMA has given me a supportive community where I've been able to grow as a leader while connecting with others who share the same passion for supply chain," she says.
Currently a supply chain rotational intern at FEMA Corporation, Xospa has gained experience in production control and purchasing. She secured the position through the Supply Chain Career Night hosted by WMU Haworth’s Zhang Career Center. At FEMA, she supports production planning and forecasting, manages supplier relationships and evaluates spending to support strategic sourcing initiatives.
"I was excited by the opportunity to learn from strong mentors while balancing my coursework. The internship has allowed me to apply real-world experiences directly to the concepts I am learning," Xospa says.
She has also studied abroad in Germany and attended professional conferences including the NRF Foundation Student Program and the WISE Symposium.
Looking ahead
Xospa plans to graduate in spring 2026 with her sights set on a career that balances personal and professional growth.
"My long-term goal is to live and work abroad at some point in my career," she says. "I am eager to thrive in industries that engage both my creativity and analytical skills, and I aim to contribute to purpose-driven companies with high-performing, empowered team cultures."
Her advice to incoming business students? "Keep an open mind and say yes to every opportunity, even the ones that feel uncomfortable or intimidating. Some of my most meaningful growth has come from experiences I initially doubted myself in. College is the perfect time to stretch yourself, because those experiences will shape both your career and the person you become."
Learn more about the program.
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