President's corner

November 14, 2023 (Volume 47, Number 6)

President Mantella on left standing to talk with two men at the veterans breakfast

five people standing on stage in front of flags of military branches

President Philomena V. Mantella speaks with Brent Holmes, veteran and associate director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, and guest speaker Jason Redman, a retired naval officer and former Navy SEAL, at the annual Veterans Breakfast.

Photo Credit: Amanda Pitts

Grand Valley received recognition last week as a military friendly campus and for a program for veterans, affirming the university's commitment to support student veterans, veterans and their dependents.

President Philomena V. Mantella told an audience gathered November 10 at the 13th annual Veterans Breakfast that she was proud to lead a university with innovative programs that support veterans.

“[Veterans] have continued to live productive lives and continued to serve," Mantella said. "I think that is so profound about our veterans. It’s your inclination, it’s in your DNA, to continue to serve. We are so proud to support you with our actions, not just our words.”

The Military Times recognized Grand Valley on its 2023 Best for Vets: Colleges List. The organization said it analyzes programs and public data to help guide veterans on their educational planning.

Also, the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce honored GVSU's Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab with a Community Service Award during the 67th Annual Armed Forces Appreciation Luncheon, held November 9 at Firekeepers Casino Hotel.

The MVE-Lab provides support for Battle Creek's strong military community by assisting and launching 12 entrepreneurs and also driving numerous emerging opportunities. Kara E. Beer, chamber president and CEO, said the group wanted to recognize a program that has had such a direct impact.