What Is a Sponsored Program? 
A sponsored program is a project that is funded by an external agency (an agency outside of GVSU). Most sponsored programs are awarded to the University on behalf of individual faculty members or Principal Investigators. The Office of Sponsored Programs submits proposals, accepts awards, and assists with the administration of the awards on behalf of the University.

Our Mission: 
The Office of Sponsored Programs serves as the University's central office that supports faculty and staff in the identification, development, submission, and administration of externally sponsored agreements for scholarly research and creative activity.

Our Vision: 
The Office of Sponsored Programs will be seen as a highly professional, responsive, and service-oriented organization that has an essential role in successfully advancing and supporting the University's mission and vision.

The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) is your go-to department for securing external financial support for your research, programs, projects, and creative activities. Call or email your Grants and Contracts Specialist early and often. It will make the entire process so much easier for you.

    • We research and disseminate grant opportunities that align with your interests and areas of expertise,
    • Provide technical assistance with grant and contract preparation,
    • Offer consultation on proposal development,
    • Assist with developing budgets,
    • Review and submit grant proposals and,
    • Execute contracts.

 

MEET THE OSP TEAM -

To find the Grants and Contracts Specialist assigned to your area please use the OSP directory .

 

KIM SQUIERS, MPA

Director, Office of Sponsored Programs
049 James H. Zumberge Hall
(616) 331-6868 
[email protected]

Kim is the director of sponsored programs at GVSU. She earned a master’s degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration and has 20 years of experience in leadership positions with a diversity of organizations in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. She has worked in grants and research administration since 2010.

 

MELISSA WRIGHT, CRA

Senior Grants and Contracts Specialist
049 James H. Zumberge Hall 
(616) 331-9452
[email protected]

Melissa is a senior grants and contracts specialist in the Office of Sponsored Programs and has served the GVSU community for nearly 25 years. Before joining OSP, she was the marketing and logistics coordinator for the GVSU Autism Education Center. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Ferris State University and is a Certified Research Administrator, demonstrating deep knowledge of research administration.

 

SARA LEDFORD, JD

Grants and Contracts Specialist
049 James H. Zumberge Hall 
(616) 331-6898
[email protected]

Sara is a grants and contracts specialist in GVSU’s Office of Sponsored Programs. Prior to coming to GVSU Sara was a practicing attorney in the Chicago area for 20 years. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Communication Studies from the University of Michigan and her Juris Doctorate from Indiana University. She has vast experience in contract negotiation and regulatory compliance.