As anthropologists, we are guided by principles that emphasize openness, respect for innate human dignity, and a deep commitment to understanding and improving the human condition. In light of ongoing challenges to fundamental human rights as well as social and global upheaval, the GVSU Department of Anthropology reaffirms its dedication to interconnectedness, appreciation for a range of perspectives, and devotion to fairness as foundational values of our discipline.

 We remain steadfast in our commitment to welcoming and supporting all students, faculty, and staff. We honor and celebrate the breadth of humanity, including far-ranging worldviews and lived experiences shaped by ethnicity, nationality, disability, sex, religion, gender identity and expression, immigration status, appearance, political affiliation, veteran status, and socioeconomic background.

 Our commitment extends beyond the university. We actively engage with the broader community, contributing to the well-being and empowerment of all people. Through applied anthropology and community engagement, we actively work to support groups that face barriers. We also strive to address the deeply rooted challenges they face.

We understand that anthropology is an intensely human endeavor based on dialogue, cooperation, appreciation of disparate worldviews, and ethical scholarship. We invite all members of our community to join us in upholding the values of openness, respect for innate human dignity, and commitment to fairness in everything we do.

- Elizabeth Arnold - daughter, sister, wife, mother and associate professor of anthropology
- Jan Brashler - daughter, sister, exchange student mother, emerita professor of anthropology
- Steven Dorland - assistant professor of anthropology
- Jonathan Greer - visiting professor of anthropology
- Kristin Hedges - mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, associate professor of anthropology 
- Tara Hefferan - mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, senior affiliate professor of anthropology
- Wesley Jackson - husband, father, son, collections and information management specialist
- Gwyn Madden - mother, daughter, professor of anthropology
- Angela Reed - mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, part-time professor of anthropology
- Mark Schwartz - professor of anthropology
- Chris Shaffer - son, partner, brother, friend, associate professor of anthropology 
- Heather Van Wormer - daughter, sister, aunt, friend, volunteer, traveler, professor of anthropology
- Deana L. Weibel - mother, wife, friend, professor of anthropology
- Michael Wroblewski - husband, father, associate professor and chair of anthropology