Four questions with Bobby Springer

February 24, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 12)

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Bobby Springer, second from left, is pictured with other members of the MLK Partnership Committee and panelists who participated in 'A Call to Courageous Community Action' on February 4 at Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids.

Photo Credit: Kendra Stanley-Mills

Bobby Springer is the director of Grand Valley's GEAR UP program, a college access initiative providing students and families with the resources they need for college success. He is also a longtime co-chair of the committee that plans campus events to commemorate the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Below, Springer discusses Black History Month and Grand Valley's MLK Commemoration Week, and how these observances connect to the university’s broader mission.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally?
Black History Month represents both remembrance and responsibility. It honors the extraordinary role Black individuals have played in building this country through innovation, leadership, resilience and sacrifice, while also reminding us that history is still being written today.

For me, it is about understanding truth through knowledge. Until we fully learn the facts, triumphs, challenges and truths, we cannot fully appreciate the value of the lessons and contributions made by Black individuals or the progress still ahead. Throughout my career in higher education and multicultural education leadership, I have seen how education, storytelling and intentional dialogue help communities move beyond awareness to opening doors to empathy, collaboration and growth. Black History Month invites us to reflect not only on past achievements, but on how we each contribute to shaping a more equitable future.

How can the campus community engage in Black History Month in ways that are meaningful and more than a single calendar event?
Meaningful engagement begins with participation, but it should not end there. Attending campus and community programs is an important first step because it builds shared understanding and collective connection.

Going deeper requires curiosity and personal investment. I encourage students, faculty and staff to explore the research, scholarship and lived experiences that highlight the many ways Black individuals have influenced education, health care, business, science, the arts and public service. When learning extends beyond the commemorative calendar and becomes part of everyday dialogue, it strengthens institutional culture and creates lasting impact.

As someone who has spent decades mentoring students and shaping multiculturalism, I believe that true engagement happens when we connect history to action through mentorship, inclusive engagement practices and creating spaces where every voice feels valued and heard.

You have worked with Grand Valley’s MLK Executive Planning Committee for many years. What does the community response to MLK Commemoration Week mean to you?
After more than 25 incredible years of co-chairing the annual commemoration on campus, my excitement and passion remain as strong as they were on day one. Each year, I am deeply honored to help bring awareness to Dr. King’s legacy — a legacy that continues to challenge us to dream bigger, lead with courage and build communities grounded in justice and compassion.

Seeing the campus and community partners come together reminds me that this work is bigger than any single person or program. The community response affirms that Dr. King’s message of nonviolence, unity and collective responsibility still resonates deeply.

This year’s theme, "Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolence Way," reflects a shared commitment to move forward together. Dr. King’s words, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” continue to guide my multicultural philosophy. 

Co-chairing this celebration is not simply an assignment; it is a labor of love and a reflection of my lifelong dedication to building bridges across differences and empowering others through education and service. Through lived experiences, my belief remains that education is one of our strongest tools for transformation.

How do Black History Month, and similar commemorative months connect to Grand Valley’s broader commitments and values?
Black History Month aligns naturally with Grand Valley’s commitment to education, inclusion and community engagement. The university’s continued investment in cultural programming reinforces its understanding that learning extends beyond the classroom. These programs enrich the campus experience, foster dialogue and help cultivate current relationships and future student leaders who are preparing to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.

When institutions support commemorative months with intention and resources, they demonstrate that history, culture and belonging stimulate intellectual curiosity, which are central to the academic mission. Through sustained collaboration between campus leaders, students and community partners, Grand Valley continues to model how higher education can honor the past while preparing future generations to lead with purpose.

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