Permanent link for The Center for Educational Partnerships Celebrates Student Success at GVSU Student Scholars Day on April 23, 2026

Grand Valley State University hosted its 30th annual Student Scholars Day on April 8, 2026, in the Grand River Room at Kirkhof Center. The event, organized by the Center for Undergraduate Scholar Engagement and the Student Scholars Day planning committee, brought together students from a wide range of disciplines to showcase their research and share their work with peers, faculty, and the community.

This year’s theme, “Reimagining the Purpose of Our Scholarship,” encouraged students to consider how their research can extend beyond academic spaces and create meaningful impact.

The room was filled with poster presentations as students shared projects they had developed over extended periods of research and study.

The Center for Educational Partnerships is especially proud to celebrate one of its own, Emma Van Erden, a student office assistant who has been part of the team for the past three years. Emma was named a Scholar of the Day and earned first place in the Biological and Life Science discipline poster category for her research on mercury dynamics in Muskegon Lake.

Her research focuses on how mercury moves through lake sediments and aquatic organisms, contributing to a better understanding of environmental health in local water systems.

Emma’s recognition reflects her hard work, dedication, and passion for environmental research. During her time with the Center, she has been an integral part of the team, supporting the office and contributing to the mission of the Groundswell Stewardship Initiative.

The Center for Educational Partnerships and CECI celebrate Emma’s achievements and looks forward to the impact she will continue to make as she begins her career in the environmental field.

Posted by Elana Burns on Permanent link for The Center for Educational Partnerships Celebrates Student Success at GVSU Student Scholars Day on April 23, 2026.