Detroit, Michigan, December 19, 2025
Walsh College has appointed two new members to its Board of Trustees, Paul Mersino and Haroon Bhatti. Mersino, president of Emagine Entertainment, and Bhatti, a successful entrepreneur in technology and finance, bring valuable expertise to enhance the college’s ties with the Southeast Michigan business community. This strategic initiative aims to integrate practical business insights into Walsh College’s curriculum, preparing students for the competitive job market. Both new board members have impressive academic and professional backgrounds and are committed to fostering emerging talent within the community.
Walsh College Strengthens Leadership with New Board Appointments
Two Business Leaders to Enhance Connections and Strategy
Detroit, Michigan – In a significant step towards enhancing its leadership framework, Walsh College has announced the appointment of two distinguished business leaders, Paul Mersino and Haroon Bhatti, to its Board of Trustees. This strategic move is designed to further strengthen the college’s ties with the Southeast Michigan business community and infuse its academic programs with practical insights from seasoned entrepreneurs.
Paul Mersino’s Appointment
Paul Mersino, the president and CEO of Emagine Entertainment, brings a wealth of business acumen to Walsh College. Under his stewardship, Emagine has seen remarkable growth, outperforming industry averages by serving more customers and achieving a 30% increase in EBITDA in 2023 compared to 2019. Mersino’s solid educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wayne State University and a Master of Science in Taxation from Walsh College. His commitment to community service is exemplified through his roles on various boards, including the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. Mersino’s recognition as the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Michigan and Northwest Ohio in 2011 adds to his impressive credentials.
Haroon Bhatti’s Appointment
Haroon Bhatti is a prominent entrepreneur and investor with extensive experience in technology and finance. Having founded and managed several successful startups in the fintech and healthtech sectors, Bhatti’s expertise is a valuable addition to the Board. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Bhatti is dedicated to fostering new talent and actively mentors emerging entrepreneurs, contributing to advisory boards for various tech incubators across the region.
Walsh College’s Strategic Vision
The addition of Mersino and Bhatti aligns closely with Walsh College’s strategic vision, which emphasizes the integration of practical business experiences into its curriculum. By leveraging the insights and backgrounds of industry leaders, Walsh College aims to provide its students with opportunities that seamlessly connect academic theory with real-world business practices. Such initiatives are crucial in preparing graduates for the complexities of today’s competitive job market.
About Walsh College
Founded in 1922, Walsh College is a private, non-profit institution that is committed to delivering high-quality business education. Its focus is on cultivating practical skills and leadership development, equipping students to thrive in a dynamic business landscape. With a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, Walsh College is dedicated to shaping the future of Michigan’s workforce.
Contact Information
For those interested in learning more about Walsh College’s extensive programs and offerings, please visit the official website or reach out to the admissions office directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the new members of Walsh College’s Board of Trustees?
The new members are Paul Mersino, president and CEO of Emagine Entertainment, and Haroon Bhatti, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor in the fintech and healthtech sectors.
What are Paul Mersino’s qualifications?
Paul Mersino holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with High Distinction from Wayne State University and a Master of Science in Taxation from Walsh College. He has been recognized with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from both Walsh College and Wayne State University.
What is Haroon Bhatti’s professional background?
Haroon Bhatti is an entrepreneur and investor with a strong background in technology and finance. He has founded and led several successful startups in the fintech and healthtech sectors and holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
How do these appointments align with Walsh College’s strategic vision?
The appointments of Mersino and Bhatti align with Walsh College’s strategic vision to integrate practical business experience into its academic programs, providing students with valuable insights and opportunities that bridge academic learning with real-world business applications.
What is Walsh College’s mission?
Established in 1922, Walsh College is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to providing quality business education, focusing on practical skills and leadership development to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic business environment.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Board Members | Paul Mersino and Haroon Bhatti |
| Paul Mersino’s Role | President and CEO of Emagine Entertainment |
| Haroon Bhatti’s Background | Entrepreneur and investor in fintech and healthtech sectors |
| Walsh College’s Mission | Provide quality business education focusing on practical skills and leadership development |
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