Niara (knee-r-ruh): "with utmost purpose," a name that embodies power, determination, and intentionality. (Swahili)
At Grand Valley, Niara creates space for women of color to connect, grow, and lead. Niara is open to any student committed to creating a vibrant and supportive community at Grand Valley. By centering the experiences and amplifying the voices of women of color, the program provides platforms for academic, social, and cultural excellence.
Through intentional mentorship and dedicated support, Niara works to dismantle structural barriers and close opportunity gaps, empowering students to flourish and lead with purpose. Niara was created by students, for students.
Monthly engagement opportunities are scheduled to allow students to come together to curate a safe space for an open forum on various guided discussions and to ultimately provide a collective community for them in times of normalcy, solidarity, and celebration. Events such as a Mentor Mixer, Financial Goal Setting and Vision Boards, and a virtual HERStory seminar help students foster a sense of belonging and community at GVSU.
