"Don Lubbers IS Grand Valley. That is it in a nutshell, but I can and will elaborate. Others have written, rightly, about how much Don has done for Grand Valley, but let me give just two small examples. 1) My favorite GV Professor, Dr. John Batchelder ("Batch"), told me as a freshman that Dr. Lubbers held open office hours each semester for any student to come in to talk with him. On a whim, I set up an appointment, and enjoyed our talk so much that I did it again each of my semesters at Grand Valley. (Don could not have acted more interested in my success, and if he had been acting, the man deserves an Academy Award.) 2) Eleven years after I graduated, and nine years after my favorite GV professor retired, I attended Batch's funeral. I was pleased to see several of Batch's colleagues there, and even moreso to see Don Lubbers there to pay his respects. When he took me aside to say, "Shane, I know how much Dr. Batchelder meant to you, and he meant a lot to me too," I knew two things for sure: Grand Valley IS Don Lubbers. And versa vice."
"You have done more for this university than just about anyone in our community. Your passion for the success of the university and your willingness to give of your time, network, and resources is the true embodiment of what it means to be a Laker. I could not be more proud to be an alumna of Grand Valley! Thank you for making so many opportunities a reality for our students! "
"Thank you for all you've done for this University over the years."
"President Lubbers Thank you for your many years of dedication to Grand Valley. Your leadership has helped to shape Grand Valley into what it is today.. the No. 1 Division II school in athletics and one of the highest rated schools in quality academics in Michigan. I am proud to know you and to be a "Laker for Life". Kathleen Vogelsang "
"I will forever associate your name as president of GVSC. I attended 1971-75, our daughter, Christine, graduated just last year! It's in the family! I always remember receiving a Christmas Card from your family, Mr. Lubbers! Congratulations on work well done! Here's to You and GVSU! Sincerely, Rose Westmaas"
