Alumni in 5
Elizabeth Kalafut 2024 (Undergrad in AFN) 2025 (Grad in Clinical Dietetics)
Employer
Owner Of Grove Street Bakery
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Since graduating, my life took a pretty unexpected turn. I
purchased Grove Street Bakery in Bloomington, Illinois, and relocated
shortly after to take it over. It all happened very quickly, but what
drew me in was how much the bakery meant to the community. I wanted to
preserve something people loved while also bringing new energy and
ideas into the space. Since then, I’ve been focused on growing the
business, supporting my team, introducing new products (Using my
Dietetics background!), and creating a place that feels welcoming and
fun for everyone who walks in. It’s been a crash course in
entrepreneurship, and I’ve learned more in the past year than I ever
could have imagined.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
One of my favorite memories is running the Boston Marathon on the
Monday before graduation and then graduating on Saturday. Having my
family, my best friend, and my roommate there meant everything. I also
graduated alongside some of my closest friends, which made it even
more special. Walking across the stage and getting a hug from
President Mantella while earning my master’s in Clinical Dietetics
felt like the perfect way to close out my chapter at GVSU and continue
being a Laker for a Lifetime!
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
“Do not struggle alone.” That advice came from my first boss at
Grand Valley, Daniel Bohle, and I still have the piece of paper he
wrote it on. It’s something I’ve carried through my personal life and
into owning a business. Leaning on your team, your community, and your
support system makes all the difference.
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Transformative. Supportive. Empowering.
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I want to create spaces that bring people together. Through the
bakery, that means being a small but meaningful part of people’s daily
lives such as celebrating milestones, brightening tough days, and
building a sense of community. I also want to use the business as a
platform to give back, support local organizations, and make a
positive impact beyond just what we sell. If people walk in and leave
feeling a little happier than when they came in, that’s the kind of
difference I want to make. Everyone Deserves a Sweet Treat!
April 2026
Interest Area(s)
Clinical Dietetics, Applied Food and Nutrition
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