Kansas City Star: Intern program helps revive historic square
Ray James, a Graceland University student from Chicago, says some of his friends “are doing grunt work” in their summer internships.
He, on the other hand, has helped open and run a business.
“This is real hands-on, the opportunity of a lifetime,” said James, who with 11 other Graceland students is reviving several businesses in Independence.
Collin Isham, an economics major from Overland Park, said, “This program is the buzz around campus, especially among business majors.”
Credit goes to Ken McClain, who, with his wife, Cindy, has opened or reopened 12 businesses around the historic Independence Square.
McClain is an Independence lawyer who also serves as chairman of the Graceland board. Three years ago, he decided to finance summer internships for Graceland students.
It’s a competitive program. Applicants have to be recommended by their professors. Once selected, the winners receive a $5,000 stipend, room and board and an opportunity to earn more through a bonus system, all courtesy of the McClains.
“We get bright, enthusiastic people who work hard and come up with a bank of ideas and projects for our year-round employees to put in place,” said McClain, “things we might not have come up with because on our own we’re all too busy taking care of the daily business.” ...
He, on the other hand, has helped open and run a business.
“This is real hands-on, the opportunity of a lifetime,” said James, who with 11 other Graceland students is reviving several businesses in Independence.
Collin Isham, an economics major from Overland Park, said, “This program is the buzz around campus, especially among business majors.”
Credit goes to Ken McClain, who, with his wife, Cindy, has opened or reopened 12 businesses around the historic Independence Square.
McClain is an Independence lawyer who also serves as chairman of the Graceland board. Three years ago, he decided to finance summer internships for Graceland students.
It’s a competitive program. Applicants have to be recommended by their professors. Once selected, the winners receive a $5,000 stipend, room and board and an opportunity to earn more through a bonus system, all courtesy of the McClains.
“We get bright, enthusiastic people who work hard and come up with a bank of ideas and projects for our year-round employees to put in place,” said McClain, “things we might not have come up with because on our own we’re all too busy taking care of the daily business.” ...
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