GVFaces: Ben Robar

November 25, 2025 (Volume 49, Number 7)
Article by Joseph Martin

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Ben Robar, academic department coordinator for the Padnos College of Engineering

Photo Credit: Cory Morse

GVSU graduate Ben Robar returned to campus last year to begin a new role as academic department coordinator for the Padnos College of Engineering. 

Robar earned a bachelor's degree in political science in 2022 and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration.

For the College of Engineering, Robar is responsible for supporting the Occupational Safety and Health Management program, managing the college's website and social media platforms.

Robar worked as an office assistant for Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services for nearly three years. He said it was a very forward-facing role, as he helped clients access benefits such as food assistance, Medicaid, and more. Robar said he enjoyed the job because of his interest in public service, a value his parents instilled in him from a young age.

He can be seen weekly on the Valley Campus as the announcer for Grand Valley's esports club. Robar has been involved with the esports program since its infancy and also helped launch the LakerLAN podcast. 

Robar said he has met lifelong friends through gaming and the hobby keeps him connected to friends who no longer live nearby. 

“Everyone at GVSU is so nice and welcoming and that's something that I've tried to do in my role here, trying to make the students feel welcome," he said. "That extends to esports, just trying to make students there feel welcome.” 

Music is also important to Robar. He serves as a board member for the Allendale Jazz Orchestra, a community jazz band that performs at locations such as retirement homes, John Ball Zoo and the Ottawa County Fairgrounds.

Robar played the bass trombone in high school, which is where he met his fiancée, Jordan. At Grand Valley, he was a Laker Marching Band member for four years.

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