Office of the President

Meet Grand Valley's President

Dr. Philomena (Philly) V. Mantella

Dr. Philomena (Philly) V. Mantella is the fifth president of Grand Valley State University (GVSU).

Since her appointment in 2019 as GVSU's first female president, Mantella has led a bold and inclusive agenda to expand the university's reach and relevance. Dr. Mantella is committed to aligning higher education with the demands of a dynamic, knowledge-based economy and has been nationally recognized for forging numerous strategic partnerships with industry. Throughout this work, she has remained focused on delivering exceptional value to students and the communities GVSU serves.

Read Her BIOGRAPHY

"Our empowered educational experience grounded in the liberal arts and sciences is resonating across Michigan and beyond as we are readying our students to make an immediate and lifetime impact."

- Philomena V. Mantella, President

$3 BILLION

ANNUAL IMPACT

#1

IN THE NATION FOR IN-STATE TALENT RETENTION

31:1

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

100X GROWTH

IN 60 YEARS

Grand Valley State University is not simply an anchor institution; it is a keystone by design, intentionally connecting people to opportunity, learning, and the places we serve. Reach Higher Together is our strategic framework that reflects who we are and how we lead as a university.

Grand Valley State University is a major economic engine for Michigan, generating more than $3 billion annually for the state. That’s the equivalent of hosting 10 Super Bowls every year. We return $31 for every $1 invested by taxpayers and are in the top 1% for talent retention in the US.

The Blue Dot Ecosystem is Grand Valley State University’s commitment to a world that is being rapidly reshaped. It ensures that every student, faculty member, and staff member across every discipline develops the digital fluency and innovative mindset required to succeed in this new era.

Learn More About Reach Higher

Learn More About Economic Impact

Learn More About Blue Dot