As a Partnership Manager for AdviseMI, Bob Ewigleben focuses on the development and supervision of AdviseMI college advisers, as well as managing relationships with the program’s partner schools across the state.

Before coming to MCAN, Bob spent three years working remotely for a nonprofit organization serving refugee communities in Central Texas. Prior to that, he worked at Ferris State University for 13 years in a variety of capacities, including assessment director for the College of Education and Human Service, director of international development for the College of Business, and program coordinator in the College of Business. During his time at FSU, Bob was active in local efforts to improve postsecondary access and success. He was a member of a Muskegon Local College Access Network team that engaged area high school students in interactive learning experiences about college and career opportunities. He also served on the advisory board for the Academy of Health Sciences and Technology at Innovation Central High School in Grand Rapids, which helps students interested in medical fields prepare for postsecondary education and jumpstart their career. Bob is also a military veteran, having served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy for over 25 years.

As the son of a higher education administrator, Bob saw college as a logical step after high school, but his long-term career aspirations were much less clear. His strong interest in environmental science led to earning a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health. While in college, Bob took a term off to travel in Southeast Asia. The experience left an indelible impression on him and was a key part of his decision to join the Navy for the opportunity to travel and live overseas.

In the Navy, Bob had the opportunity to work alongside young sailors from a wide range of backgrounds and experienced firsthand how successful they could be when equipped with the proper occupational skills and opportunities. After the completion of his military service, Bob returned to Michigan after accepting a position with FSU working with students enrolled in a transfer degree program at Grand Rapids Community College. He quickly realized his educational background had not adequately prepared him for a career in higher education, so he took advantage of his veteran education benefits and graduated in the first cohort of FSU’s Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership program. Bob has used his experience working with young Navy recruits to help students in Michigan advance their career and educational goals and promote postsecondary opportunities and success.

Bob and his wife Donna have been married for over 45 years, and when they are not enjoying time with their two sons, one daughter, and four grandchildren, they love exploring Michigan's rich natural and cultural offerings.