CLAS Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence Program
The CLAS Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence Program invites outstanding alumni from the departments of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences back to campus to share their post-graduation experiences with the GVSU community. Through the program, our distinguished alumni have the opportunity to share their insights about what constitutes strong academic preparation for students.
Tabitha Bennett
Zachary C. Carson
Hollin De La Cruz
B.A., Classics, Grand Valley State University, 2019
D.P.T., Physical Therapy, Grand Valley State University, 2022
Tabitha (Tabby) Bennett is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor therapy at Corewell Health Outpatient Rehabilitation. She has been practicing physical therapy for over three years and has training from several pelvic floor educational institutions. Tabby is passionate about integrating movement and exercise into pelvic floor rehab, in alignment with evidence-based best practice, to help support patients’ wellbeing. She treats a wide range of cases relating to pregnancy, postpartum, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and more. Tabby's background, which integrates healthcare and the humanities, helps her in her approach to sensitive and often taboo topics that could otherwise become barriers to caring for others in an individualized way. Tabby also serves on the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Advisory Board at Grand Valley State University, reflecting her passion for liberal arts education and the value that that perspective brings to healthcare. Outside of her professional endeavors, Tabby enjoys spending time with her four cats and spouse in their urban craftsman home, where she enjoys tackling endless home improvement projects and expanding her flower garden.
B.S., Exercise Science, Grand Valley State University, 2016
M.S., Applied Exercise Science, Concordia University, 2020
Captain Zachary C. Carson is an Aerospace Physiologist in the United States Air Force. He currently serves as the Aerospace Physiology Fellow at the USAF Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base. In this role, he focuses on identifying and solving complex human performance and human factors challenges across the Weapons School and broader aviation community, with a particular emphasis on optimizing fighter pilot performance in high-demand operational environments. Zach began his military career in the United States Navy as an Aviation Rescue Swimmer. Over six years of service, he logged more than 1,200 flight hours in the MH-60 helicopter and completed three deployments. After his naval service, Zach transitioned to academia. During his time at GVSU, he worked closely with faculty mentors Dr. Glass and Dr. Sherman, experiences that helped shape his path in human performance. He then returned to military service, accepting a commission as an officer in the USAF where applied his combined operational and physiological expertise across multiple assignments, including Vance Air Force Base, Shaw Air Force Base, and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, before his selection to the Weapons School fellowship. Zach currently serves as President of the Aerospace Physiology Society and is a member of the Aerospace Medical Association. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Outside of his professional work, Zach is committed to service and mentorship as a Character Does Matter Mentor with the Travis Manion Foundation and is an active member of the American Legion (Post #28).
B.A., French, Minor in Applied Linguistics, Grand Valley State University, 2017
Hollin De La Cruz is a community-centered leader and strategist working with partners across roughly 65 organizations in the West Michigan region. In 2022, she launched the West Michigan Welcome Plan Collaborative, a multi-sector, community-driven initiative focused on building a more inclusive region for immigrants, refugees, and New Americans, advancing efforts in education, economic opportunity, community engagement, public safety, and access to essential services. A Grand Rapids native, she brings expertise in program coordination, cross-sector collaboration, and communications, helping to align strategy and foster inclusive participation. Hollin’s path reflects the determination and curiosity of a non-traditional student. While pursuing her studies part-time, she balanced three to four jobs while completing her associate degree in three years at Grand Rapids Community College. She paused her formal education to work and travel, before ultimately earning her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley eleven years after beginning her post-secondary path. Her commitment to learning extended far beyond the classroom. She built a diverse résumé across multiple sectors and lived abroad in Curacaví, Chile; Montréal, Canada; and Bordeaux, France. These experiences deepened her passion for cultural connection and strengthened her appreciation for the many ways people see and engage with the world.
Hannah Elisabeth Gaff
Jared J. Homola
Autumn Hunter
B.A., Theatre and Classical Traditions, Grand Valley State University, 2008
M.F.A., Ensemble Based Physical Theatre, Dell’Arte International School of Physical Theatre, 2015
Hannah Gaff is an international theatre creator, therapeutic clown, director, actor, and teacher. She is a core member of UpLift Physical Theatre and founder of Theatre for Climate Justice, a project that harnesses the force of applied theatre to educate and empower young individuals and families about climate change and garbage pollution. Hannah is a 2022 Fulbright Scholar in Egypt and a Fulbright Specialist in Pakistan and Zimbabwe. She serves as an Assistant Professor of Theater (Acting) at the University of La Verne. Hannah is an Alexander Technique Teacher. In collaboration with non-profit organizations such as Clowns Without Borders, the Medical Clown Project, and ClownCorps, Hannah performs in hospitals, on the street, and in care centers locally and internationally, offering laughter relief to children and families who have experienced crisis. Compelled by the transformative power of play, she seeks to facilitate play spaces and collaborative performances that foster connection, shift perspectives, and nurture a deeper understanding of our shared human experience.
B.S., Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, 2010
M.S., Biology (Aquatic Sciences emphasis), Grand Valley State University, 2013
Ph.D., Ecology and Environmental Sciences, University of Maine, 2018
Jared Homola is a conservation geneticist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University. His career bridges genetics and natural resource management and has been shaped by a master’s degree at Grand Valley State University’s Annis Water Resources Institute, a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Sciences from the University of Maine, and a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Michigan State University. From 2021–2024, he served as Assistant Unit Leader of the United States Geological Survey Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, establishing a research program that transitioned to MSU in 2025. His group now partners with state, federal, tribal, and provincial agencies across North America to apply genetic and genomic tools to fisheries assessment, conservation planning, invasive species management, and biodiversity monitoring. He has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications and mentored over 20 undergraduate, graduate, and early career researchers. He now makes his home with his family in Grand Ledge, Michigan.
B.A., Political Science, Grand Valley State University, 2002
J.D., Howard University School of Law, 2006
Autumn Hunter is a Managing Director leading regulatory advocacy for Bank of America’s Public Policy group. She is part of the firm’s Federal Government Relations team, where she works at the intersection of regulatory advocacy, legislative engagement, and congressional oversight, strengthening alignment between regulatory policy positions and the firm’s broader legislative and oversight strategies. Prior to stepping into this role, Autumn served as Associate General Counsel and Managing Director over Public Policy, Community Impact, and Third Party Legal, where she advised on public policy and government relations matters affecting the bank and the financial services industry, and led the team responsible for legal oversight of Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, the Bank of America Foundation, and third party procurement matters. Outside of the bank, Autumn serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of Every Mother Counts, Chair of the Board of Directors of Bread for the City, Inc., and Advisory Board Member of Horizons of Greater Washington. Prior to joining Bank of America, Autumn practiced at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in Washington, D.C., in the Financial Institutions Regulation and Enforcement group, and earlier in the firm’s New York Mergers & Acquisitions group.
Razel Omar Jones
Beth A. Lubeck
Matthew Mansfield
B.A., English Language and Literature, Grand Valley State University, 2007
M.B.A., DeVos Graduate School, Northwood University, 2014
Razel Jones is the Assistant Director of Human Resources for the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. There he oversees three divisions: Talent Acquisition, Training, and Workforce Culture, supporting over 11,000 employees. A seasoned human resource professional with over 20 years of experience, has also served as the Human Resources Manager of Diversity, Inclusion, and Employment Services at Calvin University, the Deputy Title VI/EEO/AA Coordinator/Investigator for Middle Tennessee State University, and the Director of Equity and Inclusion for Tennessee State University. Razel is a Cultural Intelligence and Unconscious Bias facilitator, a Conscious Inclusion Master Facilitator, and a Certified Global Gallup Strengths Coach. In 2020, he and GVSU Writing alumnus, Daniel Abbott, co-authored the book Wounds: A Collaborative Memoir in Stories, recounting their experiences in West Michigan during their childhood and adult years. The creative non-fiction work has since been used as a resource for unpacking real-life experiences and perspectives of navigating race and difference. The unique writing styles, perspectives, and stories in the book have made it a digestible and powerful tool for opening eyes to the complexity of existing as other in West Michigan and beyond.
B.S., Biology with Emphasis in Genetics and Cell and Molecular Biology, Grand Valley State University, 2009
Ph.D., Immunology, University of Michigan, 2015
M.B.A., Jenkins Graduate School of Management, North Carolina State University, 2022
Beth Lubeck is a Biologist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, where she is the co-director of the Global Toxicologic Pathology Training Program, a publicly available website with training materials developed to increase awareness and understanding of the practice of toxicologic pathology. As an undergraduate at Grand Valley State University, she conducted an independent research project under Dr. Bruce Ostrow, studying genes that regulate the embryonic development of the flying squirrel patagium. Beth earned her Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of Michigan, working in the laboratory of Dr. Philip King. She managed two projects: developing a new transgenic mouse to study protein interactions in embryonic vascular development and elucidating the mechanism of spontaneous leukemia in an established mouse model. Her post-doctoral work in the laboratory of Dr. Mark Kahn focused on transgenic mouse models, where she generated a new mouse line to study vascular and liver development, and established a new surgical protocol to study liver regeneration after wounding. Beth then worked at the North Carolina State University School of Veterinary Medicine, managing multiple laboratories and working on a canine model of atopic dermatitis. Since 2019, she has held the role of Biologist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
B.A., Philosophy, Minor in East Asian Studies, Grand Valley State University, 1999
Matthew Mansfield lives in San Francisco, where he works as an investor and independent market analyst after a long career in technology and product strategy. Over the course of his career, Matthew has worked with entrepreneurs and teams across companies of all sizes before eventually turning his focus to financial markets. Much of his current work draws on questions first explored in philosophy: how people reason under uncertainty, what counts as good evidence, and how individuals make important decisions about money and meaning. In his twenties, he spent nearly two years on Taiwanese television, including appearances in MTV music videos. There he studied Mandarin Chinese and Chinese calligraphy. He has since traveled to more than 60 countries, often well beyond the usual routes. Today Matthew is active in San Francisco’s botany and gardening communities and co-leads regular walks for fellow plant enthusiasts.
Lisa Mondie
Joshua Munk
Jessi Parker
B.S., Chemistry, Grand Valley State University, 1998
B.S., Pharmacy, Ferris State University, 2001
PharmD, Pharmacy, Midwestern University, 2007
Lisa Mondie is an Associate Director of Operations in Medical Communications at Thermo Fisher Scientific. She began her career as a pharmacist, working for both Walgreens and CVS. During her tenure at CVS, she served as a Pharmacy Manager and District Pharmacy Supervisor and was recognized with the Paragon Award for exceptional leadership and dedication to enhancing patient experiences. She also owned and operated Medical Specialists Pharmacy in Chicago, where she served the healthcare needs of her community. In 2020, Lisa joined Pharmaceutical Product Development, Inc. (PPD), now part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, as a Medical Communications Manager. She was subsequently promoted to Associate Director of Operations. In her current role, she leads a team of 35 medical professionals who deliver research-based medical communications on pharmaceutical products. Lisa is also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., whose legacy of sisterhood, scholarship, and service reflects values she continues to uphold.
B.S., Physical Education, Minor in Psychology, Grand Valley State University, 1999
M.A., Sports Management, Central Michigan University, 2001
Joshua Munk is the Director of Facilities Services for the Tampa Sports Authority. In this role, he is responsible for all facets of facility operations, capital projects, staffing and maintenance for Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In addition, Josh oversees facilities support for the Authority’s three golf courses, Outdoor Tournament Sportsplex, and Indoor Fieldhouse. Joshua has over 20 years of experience in collegiate facility and event management. He served at the Assistant Athletic Director-Game and Event Operations at GVSU, overseeing the planning and coordination of numerous conference tournaments and NCAA championship events. He then became the Associate Director of Football and Basketball Operations for the Big Ten Conference. There he oversaw the preparation and planning for the Inaugural Big Ten Football Championship Game in 2011 and served as Director of the Big Ten Basketball Tournament from 2012-2015. Joshua is a member of the International Association of Venue Managers and the Florida Venue Managers Association. Joshua and his wife Tracy currently live in Safety Harbor, Florida, with their two dogs, Abby and Emmy. As proud alums of GVSU, they are forever grateful for the memories, friendships, and lessons that shaped who they are today.
B.S., Statistics, Grand Valley State University, 2011
M.S., Biostatistics, Grand Valley State University, 2013
Jessi Parker serves as the Director of Biostatistics and Health Informatics at Corewell Health, bringing over a decade of experience in both technical and leadership roles. Throughout her tenure, Jessi has assisted clinical research teams by offering valuable statistical input and supporting researchers with complex data challenges in the healthcare sector. She holds a certification as an SAS Base Programmer. In addition to her primary responsibilities, Jessi has dedicated effort to mentoring graduate students from GVSU's Biostatistics and Statistics programs, fostering the next generation of talent within the research department at Corewell Health.
Esther Posner
Benjamin J. Sparks
Christina J. Stuive
B.S., Geology, Grand Valley State University, 2010
M.S., Geoscience, University of Arizona, 2012
Ph.D., Experimental Geoscience, Bayersiches Geoinstitut, Universität Bayreuth, 2017
Esther Posner is an experimental and theoretical geochemist and Executive Editor of Elements, an international magazine of mineralogy, geochemistry, and petrology. As a student, she received the Geological Society of America Best Student Presentation Award and the American Geophysical Union Mineral and Rock Physics Graduate Research Award. Her research combines X-ray diffraction, diffusion experiments, and first-principles molecular dynamics simulations to investigate how pressure, temperature, and composition influence the structural and transport properties of minerals and melts in planetary interiors, with implications for early solar system processes and planetary differentiation. After her doctorate, she remained at Bayersiches Geoinstitut, as a postdoctoral fellow and multi-anvil laboratory manager while also working as a freelance academic editor. She joined Elements full-time in 2022 and lives in Coburg, Germany, with her two daughters.
B.A., Classics, Minor in Theatre, Grand Valley State University, 2008
M.A., Applied Linguistics, Grand Valley State University, 2019
Benjamin Sparks is a Newcomers and ESL Teacher in the Grand Rapids Public Schools, where he advocates for proven, research-driven language learning pedagogy complemented by modern tools and resources. After earning his master’s degree in Applied Linguistics in the program’s first cohort, Ben was accepted into the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program and relocated to Japan. There he taught English as a Foreign Language at an elementary school in Nakanojo, a rural mountain town in Gunma Prefecture. Upon his return to Michigan, he was employed by Grand Rapids Community College as an English instructor in their adult education department. Ben currently teaches ESL and Social Studies to recent immigrants and refugees in the Newcomer School at Union High. He remains deeply grateful to GVSU for the education he received, which has afforded him the opportunity to work with and learn from an incredible diversity of language learners from around the world.
B.A., History, Grand Valley State University, 2000
M.A., Counselor Education, Western Michigan University, 2002
Ph.D., Counselor Education, Western Michigan University, 2013
Christina Stuive began her professional career at Wedgwood Christian Services, where she held a variety of roles while earning her master’s degree and becoming a licensed professional counselor. In 2010, Christina joined the Counseling and Advising Department at Kenai Peninsula College, a community campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage. With an indigenous advocate, she co-wrote a paraprofessional behavioral health concentration curriculum for Alaska Christian College, which focuses on students from the rural off-road western region of Alaska. Christina came to view Alaska native languages as a critical support for student retention and worked to expand native language offerings and address the significant underrepresentation of Indigenous languages in the curriculum. She collaborated with Indigenous faculty to co-develop four Alaska Native Dené language programs. After earning tenure and promotion to full professor at UAA, she resigned and now works in private practice as a licensed counselor and mental health consultant. Christina continues to collaborate with organizations such as the Bristol Bay Foundation that focus on Indigenous language reclamation and healing the impacts of language loss resulting from colonization. She credits her academic experiences in history, her involvement with the Community Working Classics Program created by Michael DeWilde, and a service-learning course on adolescent juvenile justice taught by Kathleen Bailey with shaping both her career in mental health and her commitment to Indigenous language revitalization.
Jeffrey Trost III
Tyler Whittemore
B.S., Statistics, Grand Valley State University, 2022
M.S., Applied Statistics, Grand Valley State University, 2024
Jeffrey Trost is an IT Analyst at Dow and a part of the information systems rotational program. Throughout the time in the rotational program, he's used his data science background to work on enterprise-wide solutions through direct collaborations with commercial, purchasing, manufacturing, and cybersecurity stakeholders. These projects range from logistic regression predictions and various multivariate models, to heuristic automations which integrate directly into driving business efficiency and transformation efforts. He's also helped coordinate different events at Dow such as the STEM tent activities for the Dow Golf Championship, head writer for the quarterly rotational employee newsletter, and an entire create-a-thon event for cross organization collaboration between interns. In his free time, he likes to travel and hike across the different national parks and participate in NFL data bowl competitions.
B.S., Health and Physical Education, Minor in Biology, Grand Valley State University, 2013
Tyler Whittemore teaches health and physical education and coaches basketball at Godwin Heights Public Schools, which he attended from preschool through high school. Tyler is an amazing mentor to Grand Valley pre-service teachers, always welcoming student teachers into his classroom, and providing meaningful experiences and support. In the classroom, he strives to connect with every student and truly makes a difference in their lives, even teaching himself some Spanish to better communicate with and support his students. His impact extends beyond his classroom, as Grand Valley Health and Physical Education professors often leave with new ideas after observing his teaching. In addition to his work in education, Tyler has achieved remarkable success as a coach, leading his basketball team to an MHSAA State Championship in 2015 and ten consecutive OK Silver Conference championships.
2025 Honorees
Ph.D. Communication, University of Belgrade
M.S. Communication, Grand Valley State University (1991)
B.A. English and Literature & Journalism, University of Sarajevo
Aleksandar Bogdanić holds degrees in English and Literature, and in Journalism from the University of Sarajevo, an MS in Communications from Grand Valley State University (USA), and a PhD in Communication from the University of Belgrade. Dr. Bogdanić is a dedicated scholar with extensive experience in communication and journalism. He began his career as an English teacher and later worked as a research assistant and visiting faculty in communication at Grand Valley State University. He then served as an associate researcher at the University of Belgrade and went on to teach English and Communication at the University of Banja Luka, where he also chaired the Departments of English, and Journalism and Communication.
After completing a Fulbright year at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Bogdanić co-founded the Banja Luka College of Communication, serving as Dean, Director, and part-time professor. He also taught at the University of Banja Luka and was a visiting professor in Graduate and Doctoral programs at the Universities of Tuzla, Sarajevo, Mostar, and at the School of Market Communication Agora in Zagreb, as well as a visiting scholar at Fordham University in New York. He served as a mentor and committee member across all academic levels, held roles on faculty appointment committees, and contributed as reviewer, editor, and board member for national and international journals and academic publications in Communication and journalism. He was a member of the Council for the development of higher education and quality assurance, advisor to the Prime Minister of Republika Srpska on higher education, media consultant to the British Embassy in BiH, and an accreditation expert for the BiH Agency for the development of higher education and quality assurance. Dr. Bogdanić led research projects, published numerous books and articles, and participated in international conferences. His work has been recognized with several awards, including awards from the Universities of Banja Luka and Mostar. Since 2023, he has served as Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ambassador to Canada.
J.D., University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law
B.S. Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2010)
Justice Kyra Harris Bolden joined the Michigan Supreme Court on January 1, 2023, when she was appointed by Governor Whitmer, making her the first Black woman to serve as a Justice. A graduate of Southfield Public Schools, Justice Bolden chose to remain in Michigan for her studies, receiving her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. While serving as a state representative in the Michigan House of Representatives, Bolden advocated for Michiganders as a member of the Judiciary Committee and focused her work on criminal justice reform and crafting and passing bipartisan legislation to protect survivors of sexual violence. Justice Bolden successfully passed pieces of critical bipartisan legislation into law, including the “Medically Frail” Prison Reform package, the revision of the Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act, and the “Address Confidentiality for Survivors of Domestic Violence” package.
Justice Bolden has a deep respect for the law and has seen the depth and breadth of law in her years of practice and lawmaking. After becoming a member of the State Bar, Justice Bolden practiced as a criminal defense attorney. She then served as a Judicial Law Clerk in Wayne County’s Third Circuit Court under the Honorable John A. Murphy. As a Judicial Law Clerk, Justice Bolden performed legal research, made recommendations to Judge Murphy on legal interpretation based upon relevant case law, and drafted opinions on a myriad of civil issues. She then practiced as a civil litigation attorney with Lewis & Munday, P.C., in several practice areas before joining the Michigan Legislature in 2019.
Alongside her daily work, Justice Bolden is an active member of her community, serving as a member of the Oakland County Bar Association, Wolverine Bar Association, Straker Bar Association, the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan, National Congress of Black Women-Oakland County, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Justice Bolden has received several awards, including the 2019 Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs, Inc. “Young Women Lifting As We Climb Image Award,” the 2019 African American Leadership Awards “Emerging Leader Award,” a 2020 Michigan Chronicle “40 Under 40 Award,” 2021 “Legislative Economic Development Champion Award,” and the 2021 Michigan Credit Union League “Legislator of the Year Award.”
M.H.S. Biomedical Sciences, Grand Valley State University (2012)
B.S. Biology, Emphasis in Neuroscience and Physical Education, Muskingum College
Jennifer Bourbina is a passionate and driven college professor. Currently, she is a tenure track faculty member at Delta College having previously taught at Grand Valley State University and Grand Rapids Community College. Beyond holistically supporting her own students, Jennifer runs a podcast and YouTube channel focusing on student development and biomedical content. Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree from Muskingum University and both of her master’s degrees from Grand Valley State University. She completed a Master of Human Health Sciences in 2013 focusing on adult neurogenesis in Dr. Dan Bergman’s lab. For her 2024 Master of Education, Jennifer worked with Dr. Paul Bylsma on the impact of flipped course design. Her work bridges pedagogy and neuroscience, focusing on equity in education, evidence-based teaching practices, and supporting first-year students. Jennifer is a mother of two, Madilynn (age 10) and Lawrence (age 7). Her husband, Brad Bourbina, is also GVSU alumnus, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.
M.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, Emphasis in Biotechnology, Grand Valley State University (2014)
B.S. Biochemistry & Biology with a Cellular and Molecular Concentration, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (2012)
Brett graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2014 with a Professional Science Master’s degree in Biotechnology. During his time at Grand Valley, he completed an internship at Syzygy (pronounced si·zuh·jee), now known as Empirical Bioscience, where he purified and tested Taq DNA Polymerase. After graduating, Brett briefly returned to his parents' basement in Wisconsin before taking a short-term job in St. Paul, Minnesota, testing milk. (Fun fact: the minimum fat content of whole milk is 3.23%, while skim milk maxes out at 0.5%.) He then moved to Hastings, Nebraska to work for the USDA at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, focusing on swine reproduction and meat quality. The center was once an ammunition depot during WWII—many of the bunkers remain and are now frequented by cows attempting to climb them. While in Nebraska, he started a family that has grown to include three beautiful (and sometimes chaotic) children—he's fully immersed in parenting life. Brett eventually settled in Des Moines, Iowa, where he joined the Protein Engineering team at Corteva Agriscience (better known as Pioneer). He initially jumped into structural biology work—despite having no prior experience—and over time transitioned into designing experimental templates and building data capture systems.
Ph.D. Environmental Health Sciences, University of North Carolina Greensboro (2023)
B.S Biomedical Science, Microbiology Emphasis, Grand Valley State University (2018)
Dr. Megan Damico is the Associate Director of the Focused Initiatives Team (FIT) at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, where she leads strategic efforts to grow and organize North Carolina’s bioeconomy by identifying new life sciences opportunities and solving complex challenges. She joined NCBiotech in 2023 as a FIT intern conducting foundational research and landscape analyses of the state’s bioeconomy, later serving as a NC STEM Policy Fellow supporting economic development initiatives. Previously, she was a Policy Entrepreneur and Bioeconomy Policy Fellow at the Federation of American Scientists, where she advanced national bioeconomy policy focused on breakthrough technologies and environmental sustainability. Dr. Damico earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Health Sciences from UNC Greensboro, studying strain-level diversity in the honeybee gut microbiome and honeybee probiotic policy, and holds a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Grand Valley State University.
Ph.D. Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan (2013)
B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, Grand Valley State University (2008)
Krista A. Geister, Ph.D. graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2008 with a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology. She was awarded the Outstanding CMB Student Award twice and conducted two independent research projects; one with Dr. Pei-Lan Tsou focused on human genetic variation and a second with Dr. Margaret Dietrich focused on expression of a novel soybean gene in response to various stimuli. From GVSU, Dr. Geister went on to attend the University of Michigan to receive her PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology in 2013. While there, her thesis work focused on the molecular and genetic etiologies of two spontaneous mouse models of skeletal dysplasia and infertility in the laboratory of Dr. Sally A. Camper. Dr. Geister continued her training in forward genetics during her postdoctoral work in the laboratory of Dr. David R. Beier at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. In 2018, Dr. Geister accepted a position at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, reporting to Dr. Cat Lutz as a Technology and Resource Development Scientist. In 2019, Dr. Geister accepted a position as a Study Director in the department of Model Generation, Genotyping, and Reproductive Sciences, where she draws upon her experience in and passion for genetics to design and deliver mouse models to researchers throughout the scientific community. A native Michigander, Dr. Geister was granted the opportunity to move home to Michigan in 2022 and maintain her position as a Study Director at The Jackson Laboratory as a remote employee. When she is not designing mouse models, Dr. Geister enjoys spending time with her family, pets, and caring for her (too) many houseplants. She is thrilled to return to where her scientific career began and meet the next generation GVSU Cell and Molecular Biology students.
Ph.D. Anthropology, The State University of New York at AlbanyM.A. Anthropology, The State University of New York at Albany
B.S. Anthropology, Grand Valley State University (2009)
B.S. Health Sciences, 2009, Grand Valley State University (2009)
Jordan Karsten earned a Bachelor of Science in anthropology and a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Grand Valley State University in 2009. He then earned both a Master's and Ph.D. in Anthropology at the State University of New York at Albany. Following graduate school, he was hired in 2014 at the University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh, where he now holds the rank of Professor of Anthropology. Within anthropology, his research has focused on the human skeleton and its interpretation in both ancient and modern contexts. Since graduating from GVSU, he has conducted research on ancient skeletons from Ukraine and has used the data to reconstruct ancient warfare and European population history. He has also helped develop methods for sex and ancestry estimation in skeletons recovered from forensic contexts. In addition to his work at the university, Dr. Karsten also serves as the forensic anthropologist for the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory. In that role he has helped identify victims from across the state and contributes to law enforcement teams focused on solving cold cases. He also participated in an expedition that resulted in the identification of an American soldier killed in World War II. His work has been recognized with awards from groups including the Wisconsin Association of Homicide Investigators and the German War Graves Commission.
J.D., University of Michigan Detroit-Mercy (2009)M.S. of Intercultural Human Rights Law, St. Thomas University (2010)
B.S. Sociology, Grand Valley State University (2005)
B.S. Public Administration, Grand Valley State University (2005)
Attorney Allison Kranz, JD, LLM, "The Nerdy Immigration Lawyer," provides strategic immigration planning to address the visa, work, and citizenship goals of her clients. Allison's interest in immigration is personal. She is married to an immigrant, and her family tree currently extends to Ethiopia, Canada, Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, Egypt, Ghana, Rwanda, and Colombia. She is the Managing Partner at Lodestone Legal, LLC. Allison was recognized as an Elite Lawyer for excellence in immigration law in 2022 and 2023. In 2019, she was named a Women in the Law Award winner by Lawyer Monthly magazine. She was also a member of the team that won the global W.K. Kellogg Values Award, the Kellogg Company’s highest honor. During her time at Grand Valley, Allison was a member of Students Against Sweatshops and a founding member of Act on Racism. She was a Student Senate Vice President and a Multicultural Assistant for Housing and Residence Life. Her advocacy was eventually recognized with the Most Outstanding Sociology Student Award and the Thomas M. Seykora Award, which honors seniors who have made exceptional contributions.
M.F.A. Creative Writing and Playwriting, Western Michigan University (2015)
B.A. Writing (2012)
Jeremy Llorence is a Black American playwright from metro Detroit. His ten-minute, one-act, and full-length plays have been seen in venues all over the Midwest including Columbus, Chicago, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Milwaukee. He is an Associate Professor in the English Department at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio, where he teaches courses in playwriting, fiction, advanced narrative, composition, and others. He serves as the faculty advisor to Quiz and Quill, Otterbein’s student literary journal. He strives to help students find passion, style, and voice in their creative work, mainly through irrepressible energy and off-beat humor. Jeremy is the recipient of many awards for his creative work and teaching, including the 2022 Individual Excellence Award from the Ohio Arts Council, the New Teacher of the Year Award from Otterbein University, and a CATCO/GCAC Playwriting Fellowship. Jeremy holds a BA in Writing from Grand Valley State University (2012) and an MFA in Creative Writing and Playwriting from Western Michigan University (2015).
M.P.A. Emphasis in Urban and Regional Policy/Planning and Public Management, Grand Valley State University (2015)
B.S. Geography and Planning, Environmental Studies minor, Grand Valley State University (2012)
Nathaniel Mehmed is an Executive and Senior Planner with the consulting firm Williams & Works in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Planning in 2012, Nathan began working as a Planner for the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission and enrolled in the Master of Public Administration program at Grand Valley State University. Nearing the end of his graduate studies, he transitioned to the private sector in 2014 as a Community Planner with Williams & Works. Nathan now has more than 13 years of professional planning and zoning experience and has assisted dozens of communities with comprehensive planning, recreation planning, transportation planning, zoning, public engagement, economic development, and GIS services. As a partner at Williams & Works, Nathan is involved in running the day-to-day business operations in addition to his professional consulting roles. He has provided training through the Michigan Association of Planning and presented at multiple professional conferences related to urban planning and municipal government. Outside of the office, Nathan serves on the board of the John Ball Area Neighbors (JBAN) in Grand Rapids, as a captain in the Grand Rapids Champs League (GRCL), and as a mentor in the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies Cook Leadership Academy.
M.B.A. Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University (2025)
B.A. Advertising & Public Relations, School of Communications, Grand Valley State University (2010)
An experienced leader with a unique blend of communications & analytics expertise, Sarah specializes in strengthening brands and reputations by embedding insights into strategy development—bridging the gap between communications, business objectives, and measurable outcomes. With a career spanning both agency and corporate roles, Sarah has built and led high-performing teams, redesigned operations, and advised leaders across a range of disciplines—including sustainability/social impact, inclusion, government relations, and philanthropy —on navigating opportunities and risks. At McDonald’s, she established the company’s first in-house global Communications Measurement & Insights team, transforming how the wider function approaches planning and optimizes its impact. Prior to the Golden Arches, she spent a decade at Edelman Data and Intelligence, helping Fortune 500 firms apply data-driven strategies to enhance stakeholder engagement and storytelling. She thrives on solving complex challenges, modernizing communications, and empowering teams with the tools, frameworks, and context they need to succeed. Whether it's consulting on crisis responses, launching a global reputation tracking program, or pioneering the integration of predictive analytics in planning—she’s always focused on driving meaningful, measurable change.
M.F.A. Visual Art, University of Nevada - Reno (2013)
B.A. Photography and Communications, Grand Valley State University (2007)
Emily Najera is a photographer and visual artist dedicated to capturing the essence of America’s evolving landscapes. With years of experience in photography, Emily has developed a singular perspective on documenting the shifting scenes of cities, roadways, and buildings. Her key themes include recording revitalization and change, such as the redevelopment of historical sites, and blending artistic vision with journalistic storytelling to address diverse topics. Najera took all of the images for this exhibition on highways US 40 and US 50, which historically brought travelers across the state. Emily earned a B.A. degree from Grand Valley State University in Michigan in 2007 and a M.F.A. degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2013. She now lives in Reno with her family.
Emily’s work often focuses on the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, frequently photographing buildings and places after dark. She said, “Exhibitions are crucial for my artistic growth, providing opportunities for community engagement, experimentation with new techniques, and collaboration with other artists.” She aims for each exhibition to showcase her work, allow her to reflect on her artistic journey, and connect with audiences. Her website is https://www.emilynajera.com/ .
Najera’s photography has appeared in leading publications such as the New York Times, Bloomberg News, NPR, ProPublica, and more. Notable projects include covering the revitalization of Historic Brush Park in Detroit, documenting train stations in the Midwest, and most recently exploring housing affordability issues in Washoe County. These projects highlight her skill in blending artistic vision with journalistic storytelling.
Ph.D. Physics, Ohio State University (2015)
B.S. Physics, Grand Valley State University (2009)
Dr. Nicholas Pike is an accomplished research scientist at AV (formerly BlueHalo) in Dayton, Ohio. He collaborates closely with scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory to explore solid-state and soft matter systems. His expertise lies at the intersection of first-principles calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. His research focuses on linear and nonlinear optical materials, ferroelectrics, 2D materials, and their heterostructures, as well as polymer systems. In addition to his research, he is a Python developer responsible for creating a package that streamlines computational workflows for first-principles and molecular dynamics simulations. He earned his Ph.D. in 2015 from The Ohio State University (OSU), where his dissertation addressed analytical models of condensed matter systems. He also holds a Master of Science in Physics from OSU and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Grand Valley State University. His postdoctoral research at the University of Liège (Belgium) and the University of Oslo (Norway) further refined his expertise in computational materials science. With over 40 publications, he has made significant contributions to his field, covering topics such as defects in graphene systems, anisotropic thermal expansion in solid-state systems using first-principles calculations, linear and nonlinear optical properties of transition metal dichalcogenides, defective optical systems, and, more recently, solid-state ferroelectric materials. His work enhances the understanding of material characteristics from the atomic level to the macroscopic scale, facilitating advancements in nanotechnology and materials engineering. When not working, he enjoys being outdoors in his garden with his daughter, remodeling his house, and helping family and the community with their projects.
B.S. Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Grand Valley State University (2022)
Lucas Smielewski earned his bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics and Statistics from Grand Valley State University in 2022. While at GVSU, his interest in baseball research flourished—most notably through a Monte Carlo simulation study examining the impact of proposed MLB rule changes, such as pitch clocks and automatic ball/strike calling, on game duration and on-field action. He now works as a Scouting Analyst with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he leverages his background in data science and baseball experience to support amateur player evaluation and talent acquisition strategies.
PsyS., School Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2017)
M.S. in School Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2016)B.S. Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2012)
Taylor Thorpe graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from GVSU in 2012 and was part of the inaugural cohort for the GVSU School Psychology graduate program. She graduated with her Psychological Specialist (PsyS) degree in School Psychology in 2017. She has worked for more than a decade in urban public school settings, with 8 years as a school psychologist and now as the Supervisor of Specialized Instructor for Muskegon Public Schools. She is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) and holds certification in Special Education Administration. Taylor’s work focuses on supporting students with disabilities, improving equitable practices, and supporting special education compliance at the district level. As a lead trainer for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention for Schools (TCIS), she coordinates district-wide training and has developed systems to monitor, and ultimately reduce, the use of emergency interventions. She plays a key role in designing district processes that enhance special education services and effective support for K-12 students. In addition to her work in Muskegon, Taylor has been an adjunct professor at GVSU and has helped train future school psychologists through guest lectures and fieldwork supervision.
2004 - 2024 Honorees
- 2024: Dr. Elizabeth A. La Rue B.S. Biology (2010)
- 2017: Holly Chadwick B.S. Anthropology (2001), M.S. Social Work (2003)
- 2015: Teague O'Mara B.S. in Anthropology & Biology (2001), Ph.D. in Biological Anthropology (2012)
- 2013: Hannah Rodgers B.A. in History & Anthropology (2009)
- 2013: Lisa Rose Starner B.A. in Anthropology & French (2000), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2003)
- 2011: Troy Schindlbeck B.S. Anthropology (1995)
- 2009: Deborah Rotman B.A. in Anthropology (1993)
- 2007: Robert Kopperl B.A. in Anthropology & B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
- 2003: Robert H. Cichewicz B.S. in Biology (1994), B.S. in Anthropology (1994)
- 2024: Dr. Nkrumah Grant B.S. Biology (2014)
- 2018: Jesse Lincoln B.S. Biology (2007), M.S. Biology(2012)
- 2017: Angela Mrozinski B.S. Natural Resources (2004), M.S. Environmental Organizing and Advocacy
- 2017: Aaron Parker B.S. Natural Resources (2003), M.S. Biology (2007)
- 2016: Ebony Parker-Featherstone B.S. in Health Science (2002), M.D. (2006)
- 2015: Nathan Bacheler B.S. in Biology (1997), Ph.D. in Zoology (2008)
- 2015: Matthew Cooper B.S. in Biology (2002), M.S. in Biology (emphasis in aquatic science) (2009), Ph.D. in Biology (2014)
- 2013: Matthew Breen B.S. in Biology (2005), M.S. in Biology (emp. in aquatic science) (2008)
- 2013: Michelle Green B.S. in Biology (2000),
- 2011: Andrew Alverson B.S. Biology (1997)
- 2009: Elaine Videan B.S. in Biology (1997)
- 2007: Kara Milliron B.S. in Biology (1995)
- 2004: Michael Henshaw B.S. in Biology (1994)
- 2003: Robert H. Cichewicz B.S. in Biology (1994), B.S. in Anthropology (1994)
- 2002: Keri Konarska B.S. in Biology (1999)
- 2001: Kristin Schelling B.S. in Biology (1996)
- 2023: Kevin Swift B.S. Biomedical Sciences, GVSU (2013), Ph.D. Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan (2019)
- 2019: Embriette Hyde B.S. Biomedical Sciences (2010), B.A. Spanish (2010), Ph.D. Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Science
- 2015: Michelle LeMieux B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & Classics (2009), D.O. in Osteopathic Medicine (2013)
- 2014: James Rook B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1999), M.P.H. in International Health (2001), D.O. in Osteopathic Medicine (2006)
- 2012: Robert Burke B.S. Biomedical Science (1996)
- 2010: Sarah C. (Hull) Mulder B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (2000)
- 2005: Nicolette Baumgartner B.S. in Biomedical Science (1983)
- 2004: Deb Joseph Dell B.S. in Biomedical and Health Sciences (1985)
- 2003: Kristofer Cooper B.S. in Health Science (1997), M.S. in Physical Therapy (1999)
- 2003: David Harris B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1983), B.S. in Physical Therapy (1985)
- 2002: Don Straube B.S. in Physical Therapy (1989)
- 2002: Rick Williams B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1998)
- 2001: Stephen Mills B.S. in Health Sciences (1983), Masters in Health Sciences (1985)
- 2023: Fahmy Mamuya B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, GVSU (2006), Ph.D. Biological Sciences, University of Delaware (2014), Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Harvard Medical School (2017)
- 2019: Naveen Kamireddi B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S. Cell and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology (2008)
- 2016: Jillian Foerster B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology (2009), Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics (2013)
- 2014: David Diekema B.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology (2007), M.S. in Forensic Science (emphasis in DNA analysis) (2009)
- 2012: Henry Haringsma B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology (2005)
- 2010: Elizabeth Haak B.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology (2006)
- 2008: Heather Fox B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & B.S. in English (1984)
- 2024: Dr. Christina M. Rudzinski B.S. Chemistry (1996)
- 2018: James Snider B.S. Chemistry (1984), Ph.D. Chemistry (1990)
- 2017: Brittland DeKorver B.A. Chemistry (2007), Ph.D. Chemistry (2016)
- 2015: Jaime Curtis-Fisk B.S. in Chemistry (2004), Ph.D. in Chemistry (2009)
- 2013: Paul Cook B.S. in Chemistry (2004)
- 2011: Peter Stevens B.S. Chemistry (2001)
- 2009: Todd Davis B.S. in Chemistry (2000)
- 2007: Shannon Biros B.A. in Chemistry & B.S. in Biomedical Science (2001)
- 2004: Dana Spence B.S. in Chemistry (1992)
- 2003: Kathy L. Rowlen B.S. in Chemistry (1984)
- 2002: Gregory T. Grochoski B.S. in Chemistry (1968)
- 2024: Jaclyn Panter B.A. Classics (2008)
- 2018: James Kennedy B.A. Classics (2009), J.D. Law (2013)
- 2017: April Conant B.A. Classics (2009), B.A. History (2009), M.A. Library and Information Science (2013)
- 2013: Charles "Ty" Ham B.A. in Classics (2006)
- 2011: Kim Hansen B.A. Classics (Honors College) (2008)
- 2009: Brigette Frantz, Esq B.A. in Classical Tradition & English (2003)
- 2007: Kristen Heise B.A. in Greek & B.A. in Latin (2005)
- 2024: Abby Black B.A. English Language and Literature (2011)
- 2018: Erin Bartels B.A. English (2001)
- 2017: David Jagusch B.A. English (2009), M.A. English Pedagogy (2012)
- 2011: Liem Nguyen B.A. English & B.S. in Economics (1994)
- 2010: Suzanne Rivecca B.A. in English (2001)
- 2009: Sarah Hochstetler B.A. in English (2000)
- 2008: Heather Fox B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & B.S. in English (1984)
- 2007: Daniel Modderman B.A. in English Language & Literature (1997)
- 2005: Margaret Willey B.A. in English and Art (1975)
- 2023: Andrea Hendrick B.S. Geography and Sustainable Planning, GVSU (2016), Certificates in Sustainable Urban and Regional Planning and in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- 2019: Patrick Jurgens B.A. Geography (2007)
- 2016: Amanda Moore B.S. in Geography (2012)
- 2014: Steven Stepek B.S. in Geography (2002), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2006)
- 2012: Andrew Moore B.S. Geography (2004)
- 2010: Malinda VanSledright B.S. in Geography (2005)
- 2008: Brian VanDenBrand B.S. in Geography & Planning (2006)
- 2007: Neil Besteman B.S. in Geography (2005)
- 2024: Andrew DeWitt B.S. Geology (2010)
- 2018: Adam Wygant B.S. Geology (1993)
- 2017: Robert Bodziak B.S. Geology (1997), M.S. Geophysics (1999)
- 2015: Andrew McCarthy B.S. in Geology (2000), Ph.D. in Geosciences (2007)
- 2013: Molly (Helbing) Sherwood B.S. in Geology (1994)
- 2011: Ronald Sheets B.S. Geology (1982)
- 2007: Michael Gallagher B.S. in Geology (1983)
- 2003: Gregg Swayze B.S. in Geology (1982)
- 2001: Virginia Peterson B.S. in Geology (1980)
- 2024: Alice Kalinowski B.A. History (2015)
- 2018: Eric Baumgarten B.A. History (2012)
- 2017: Joshua Duram B.S. Group Social Studies/Education (2012)
- 2015: Hillery York B.A. in History (2012), M.A. in Museum Studies (2014)
- 2013: Hannah Rodgers B.A. in History & Anthropology (2009)
- 2010: Bryan DeAugustine B.A. in History (1995)
- 2023: Zachary Weber B.S. Mathematics, minor in History with a specialization in Secondary Education, GVSU (2012), M.S. Biostatistics, GVSU (2017), Ph.D. Epidemiology, Ohio State University (2021)
- 2019: Elizabeth Stolz B.A. Mathematics (2014), M.S. Analytics
- 2016: Samuel Otten B.S. in Mathematics (2006), Ph.D. in Mathematics Education (2012)
- 2016: Paula "Paige" Kelley B.S. in Physics and Mathematics (2009), Ph.D. in Applied Physics (2015)
- 2012: Wendy Kooiman Hahn B.S. Mathematics (2000)
- 2010: Timothy Nelson B.S. in Mathematics (1976)
- 2008: David Szurley B.S. in Mathematics (1997)
- 2008: James Vander Weide B.S. in Mathematics & B.S. in Physics (1996)
- 2007: Nicholas Ceglarek B.S. in Mathematics (1996)
- 2007: Christopher Brooks B.S. in Physics & B.S. in Mathematics (2001)
- 2005: Linda Joyce B.S. in Mathematics (1972)
- 2004: Jeffrey Terpstra B.S. in Mathematics/Statistics (1991)
- 2003: Stephen Gryzan B.S. in Mathematics (1974)
- 2002: Tara Maynard B.S. in Mathematics (1997)
- 2001: Laural Wierenga B.S. in Mathematics and Statistics (1993)
- 2024: Stephanie Nauta B.A. Spanish & Latin American Studies (2019)
- 2018: Joshua Lycka B.A. French (2013), B.S. Natural Resources Management (2013)
- 2016: Anne Marie Carson B.A. in French and International Relations (2009), J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center (2014)
- 2014: Katherine Pillsbury B.A. in Writing & Spanish (2012)
- 2013: Lisa Rose Starner B.A. in Anthropology & French (2000), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2003)
- 2012: Nicole Rasch B.A. Spanish (2001)
- 2010: Sarah Pieper B.A. in French (2006)
- 2024: Brian Metz B.S Physical Education K-12 Professional Instruction (2011)
- 2024: Ellie Shannon B.S. Physical Education, emphasis in sport leadership (2010)
- 2024: Matthew Wittbrodt B.S. Exercise Science (2010)
- 2018: Matthew Huml B.S. Physical Education, GVSU (2009), M.A. Education (2009), Ph.D. Sports Medicine (2016)
- 2017: Nathan Schout B.S. Physical Education, GVSU (2011), M.Ed. Educational Leadership (2015)
- 2015: Kenneth Games B.S. in Athletic Training (2009), Ph.D. in Kinesiology (2013)
- 2013: Jordan R. Moon B.S. in Physical Education (2004)
- 2009: Debra Moinet-St. Arnauld B.S. in Physical Education (1986)
- 2007: Janet Wierenga B.S. in Physical Education (1976)
- 2004: MaryFran Peterlin-Kolp B.S. in Physical Education (1990)
- 2003: Steven J. Keteyian B.S. in Physical Education (1978)
- 2002: John Harris III B.S. in Physical Education (1977)
- 2001: Lorin Cartwright B.S. in Physical Education/Athletic Training (1979)
- 2024: Dr. Karisa Antonio B.M. Music (2003)
- 2018: Scott Jones B.A. Music (2000), D.M.A. Wind Conducting (2013)
- 2017: Adam Cuthbert B.A. Music (2010)
- 2015: Christine Amon B.M. in Vocal Performance (2009), M.M. in Vocal Performance (2012)
- 2014: Paul Collins B.F.A. in Theatre Design & Production (1996), M.S. in Communications (2008), M.F.A. in Lighting & Scenic Design (2011)
- 2013: Hunter Eberly B.M. in Music (2009)
- 2011: Clinton Randles B.M.E. Music (2001)
- 2010: Charles Wilkins B.S. in Theatre (2001)
- 2009: Lucy Finkel B.M.E. in Music (2005)
- 2007: Robert Gruca B.M. in Music (2000)
- 2005: D.J. Hoek B.A .in Music (1993)
- 2024: Lydia Murphy B.A. Philosophy (2011)
- 2018: Katherine Mayberry B.A. Philosophy, GVSU (2000), M.F.A./MLitt (2007)
- 2017: Michael Brower B.S. Philosophy, GVSU (2007), B.S. Psychology, GVSU (2007), J.D. Law (2011)
- 2015: Ashley Dressel B.A. in Philosophy (2008), Ph.D. in Philosophy (2014)
- 2013: Craig Reynolds B.A. in Philosophy (1989)
- 2011: Noel Boyle B.A. Philosophy & Group Social Sciences (1996)
- 2009: John Sniadecki B.A. in Philosophy (2002)
- 2007: Robert Kopperl B.A. in Anthropology & B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
- 2007: Heather Allegrina-Bowe B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
- 2023: Douglas Coleman B.S. Physics, minor in Mathematics, GVSU (2011), Doctorate of Medical Physics (DMP), Vanderbilt University
- 2019: Tracy Steinbach B.S. Physics (2010), M.S. Physics, Ph.D. Chemical Physics
- 2016: Paula "Paige" Kelley B.S. in Physics and Mathematics (2009), Ph.D. in Applied Physics (2015)
- 2014: Stephen Gardner B.S. in Physics (2009), M.S. in Medical Physics (2011)
- 2012: Rhonda Graves Vickery B.S. Physics (1984)
- 2010: Kenneth Bader B.S. in Physics (2005)
- 2008: James Vander Weide B.S. in Mathematics & B.S. in Physics (1996)
- 2007: Christopher Brooks B.S. in Physics & B.S. in Mathematics (2001)
- 2005: Paul Stoner B.S. in Physics (1971)
- 2003: Susan M. Morford B.S. in Physics (1970), B.S.E. in Engineering (1992)
- 2001: Amy Stone B.S. in Physics (1997)
- 2024: Jillian Zirnhelt B.A. International Relations and Economics (2011)
- 2018: Alan Dunklow B.A. Political Science (2007), J.D. Law (2013)
- 2017: Timothy Zeeb B.A. International Relations (2002), M.S. Finance (2006)
- 2016: Anne Marie Carson B.A. in French and International Relations (2009), J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center (2014)
- 2015: Richard Damstra B.A. in Political Science (1996), J.D. (2001)
- 2014: Aubrey McMahan B.A. in International Relations (2012)
- 2012: Nerina Cevra B.A. International Relations (2001)
- 2010: James Meernik B.A. in Political Science & Psychology (1985)
- 2007: Robert Monaghan B.A. in Political Science (1967)
- 2005: James R. Spaanstra B.S. in Political Science (1974)
- 2023: Kelsey (Evans) Augustyn B.S. Allied Health Science, GVSU (2014), Psy.S. School Psychology, GVSU (2017)
- 2023: Candace Cowling Masters of Social Work, GVSU (1995)
- 2019: Ashley Nickels B.S. Psychology (2003), M.A. Public Administration (2006)
- 2016: Ryan Shorey B.S. in Psychology (2008), Ph.D. in Psychology (2014)
- 2014: Jennifer Haberling B.S. in Psychology (1991), B.A. in English (emphasis in Secondary Education) (1994), M.A. in Humanities (2005)
- 2014: Jeffery Kieliszewski B.S. in Psychology (1991), M.A. in Clinical Psychology (1993), Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology (1998)
- 2011: Katie Mawby B.S. Psychology & Physical Therapy (1987)
- 2010: James Meernik B.A. in Political Science & Psychology (1985)
- 2009: Amanda Dykema-Engblade B.S. in Psychology (1999)
- 2007: Michelle Dennis B.S. in Psychology (1999)
- 2023: Betty H. La France B.S. Journalism, GVSU (1994), Ph.D. Communication, Michigan State University (1998)
- 2023: John Zimmerman B.A. Telecommunications, Michigan State University, M.A. Communications, GVSU
- 2019: Marisa Kwiatkowski B.A. Journalism (2005)
- 2016: Chad Ghastin B.S. in Advertising & Public Relations (1998), M.S. in Integrated Marketing (2006)
- 2016: Michael Salisbury B.S. in Writing and Communications (2006), M.F.A. in Writing (2012)
- 2012: Jeffery Brand B.A. Journalism (1986)
- 2011: Brittany Hunter B.S. in Advertising & Public Relations (1998)
- 2023: Heidi Reynolds-Stenson B.A. Sociology, GVSU (2008), Ph.D. Sociology, University of Arizona (2018)
- 2019: Meghan Burke B.A. Sociology (2002), Ph.D. Sociology
- 2016: Littisha Bates B.A. in Sociology (2004), Ph.D. in Sociology (2009)
- 2012: Richard Manus B.S. Sociology (2008)
- 2005: Joel Purkiss B.S. in Sociology (1995)
- 2024: Dr. Casey Michael Jelsema B.S. Statistics (2008)
- 2017: Justin Sjogren B.S. Statistics (2006), M.S. Biostatistics (2008)
- 2014: Brandelyn Pitcher B.S. in Mathematics & Statistics (2008), M.S. in Biostatistics (2010)
- 2014: Amanda (Peterson) Plunkett B.S. in Mathematics (1999), M.S. in Applied Mathematics (2001), M.S. in Statistics (2011)
- 2007: Monica (Simon) Boyd B.S. in Statistics (1999)
- 2007: Sheila Pomeroy B.S. in Statistics (1999)
- 2004: Jeffrey Terpstra B.S. in Mathematics/Statistics (1991)
- 2002: Angela Fought B.S. in Statistics (1997)
- 2001: Laural Wierenga B.S. in Mathematics and Statistics (1993)
- 2023: Jesse Gregg B.F.A., Illustration, GVSU, M.F.A., Experimental Animation, California Institute of the Arts
- 2019: Tricia Erickson B.A. Art (2005), M.Ed. Art Education
- 2015: Paul Amenta B.F.A. in Sculpture and Printmaking (1995), M.F.A. in Fine Arts (2000)
- 2013: David Huang B.F.A. in Studio Art (2001)
- 2011: Jennifer Schaub B.F.A. Studio Art (2002), M.P.A. Public Administration (2007)
- 2009: Julie Upmeyer B.F.A. in Studio Art (2003)
- 2008: Angela Mistretta B.A. in Film & Video Production (2002)
- 2007: Jo Hormuth B.F.A. in Art (1981)
- 2007: Jeffery Donehoo B.S. in Film & Video (2001)
- 2005: James M. McClurken B.S. in Arts & Media/Social Relations (1978)
- 2023: Allie Oosta B.A./Writing GVSU (2011), M.B.A., University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business (2021)
- 2019: Lindsey Drager B.A. Writing & English Language and Literature, GVSU (2008), M.F.A. Creative Writing, Ph.D. Creative Writing
- 2016: Michael Salisbury B.S. in Writing and Communications (2006), M.F.A. in Writing (2012)
- 2014: Thomas Gunnels B.A. in Writing (2012)
- 2012: T. Fleischmann B.A. Writing (2005)
These majors are no longer housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences:
- 2003: Michael E. Baumuller B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1993)
- 2002: James E. Dunleavy B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1997)
- 2002: John Gawkowski B.S. in Computer Science (1985)
- 2002: Sean Seaver B.S.E. in Engineering (1988)
- 2001: Jonathan Engelsma B.S. in Computer Science (1987)
- 2001: David Yakes B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1991)