"President Lubbers, Your leadership of the university was not just outstanding but also inspiring. Who takes a small startup to a national power, both in academics and athletics? Not many, but you did! You showed that academics and athletics, both emphasized properly, compliment each other for the overall growth of the institution. On a personal note, there is the story of when you sat next to my mom at a football game (in the stands with everyone else) and you asked who she knew on the team, (me). She then asked who you knew and when you told her you were the president of the university she laughed and didn't believe you. She actually laughed about and repeated that story until she passed away. You were one of her favorite encounters. I am grateful for the opportunity have studied at the institution you developed, played on the field in the stadium named after you and to have shaken your hand. In appreciation of all you have done for GVSU, Thank you!"
"Don - As a co-captain of the football team during Jim Harkema's first year as head coach, I admired your leadership in bringing a person to the program that could make a difference. Being a senior on the first team to not only win a game, but to have a winning season(6-3), is a proud memory I will always have. Thank you for taking the lead, athletically, during those early years.....it's that base that all of today's successes were built on. Respectfully; Paul Griffeth (1972-74)"
"Hey Don you are a legacy to be treasured for ever and a day. It was Gr8 seeing you in Chicago at one of GVSU alumni football games in 2010. Hey I was in the pix with da man...take care .....from TA Henderson class of '76 "
"Dear Mr. Lubbers. Back in the early 90's we actually ran into each other at the Porto Cervo marina in Sardinia, Italy. I still remember how gracious and friendly you were with me and my parents. When at Grand Valley I was a member of GVSU's first men's swimming team under coach Dewey Newsome and I am sure that this would not have been possible without your undying commitment to the Grand Valley athletics program. As a former GVSU athlete and student I would like to personally thank you for all that you have done to help make Grand Valley what it is today. Kind regards, Brad Hettinga"
"Dr Lubbers, My now wife and I are members of the 1970 graduating class. As you may remember, there were not very many of us in that class. I remember that you had a reception for us at your home(I believe it was East GR) I tell people that we were the 4th graduating class and that we didn't even have a football team til the year after we left. We have come a long way I think - from the 4th graduation class to 24,000 students. Not too bad. Michael and Nancy (Payne) Kennedy 1970"
