OUR MISSION
The CLAS Center for Experiential Learning (CCEL) advocates for and supports programs that provide students with the practical skills and real-world experience necessary for success. Through the lens of equity and excellence, our programs support high-impact and experiential learning opportunities that ensure all students gain the confidence to pursue their passions.
GVSU STUDENTS TURN VOICE TO POWER IN STARTUP SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM
Feb 23, 2026
Starting a team from the ground up is no easy task. Richard Besel, GVSU professor of communication and media studies, knows this challenge firsthand.
In 2019, Besel worked to start a speech and debate team, also known as a forensics team, at Grand Valley. The team managed to send a student to a competition, but momentum was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic and funding uncertainties.
During the fall 2025 semester, Besel received the opportunity to build a team again, this time as an extracurricular activity funded by the School of Communications and a grant from the CLAS Center for Experiential Learning. In the midst of its inaugural season, the new team is focused on growth.
Article by Thomas Chavez, Image credit - Kendra Stanley-Mills
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING IN ACTION
The Summer in West Michigan: Experiential Learning & Community Impact Program was rejuvenate in the Summer of 2026 and combines interdisciplinary coursework with nonprofit internships and place-based learning focused on environmental stewardship and community engagement. Students gain hands-on experience with West Michigan organizations while earning academic credit through internships, field experiences, and applied projects. The CLAS Center for Experiential Learning supported the program by providing funding for unpaid internships, expanding access to these career-connected learning opportunities.
Denise Goerisch, PhD. and students
GLOBAL CAREER ACCELERATOR
The GVSU Global Career Accelerator is a for-credit, online program designed to equip undergraduate students with high-demand skills, real-world experience, and a clear pathway to career success. Through the program, students engage in virtual experiences with industry-leading partners from a diverse network of global organizations.
GET STARTED NOW!
Learn more about the Global Career Accelerator and Program Registration here.
WATCH THIS QUICK VIDEO!
TALENT LINK
Learn more about the Laker Accelerated Talent Link here.
REGIONAL MATH/SCIENCE CENTER
Learn more about the Regional Math and Science Center here.
CLAS VOYAGE
Learn more about the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Voyage here.
WHAT IS EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING?
Experiential learning is an active, hands-on approach to education that goes beyond the classroom. It encompasses a variety of immersive experiences, including simulations, project-based learning, community engagement, undergraduate research, fieldwork, study away and abroad, and internships. These opportunities foster real-world problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability—essential skills for today’s graduates to thrive in dynamic environments.
The Pew Faculty Teaching and Learning Center Experiential Learning at GVSU page articulates a definition of experiential learning, principles of experiential learning and connections to the high-impact practices (HIPs).
WHAT DOES CCEL DO?
The CLAS Center for Experiential Learning (CCEL) supports hands-on learning by:
- Connect CLAS faculty and students with community partners
- Initiate and sustain paid internships and work-integrated education
- Promote experiential learning resources to students and faculty
- Learn more about the history of CCEL or center staff!
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
