Richard M. DeVos, one of Grand Valley State University's strongest supporters, will be honored by GVSU'S Student Senate during the annual President's Ball this Friday, March 31.
It is a way to thank him for what he has done for this university, explains Rachel Maris, Executive Vice-President of Student Senate. He has always been willing to lend a helping hand.
The President's Ball is a dinner/dance put on annually for the GVSU community in honor of President Lubbers and the current president of Student Senate. This year the ball is being held at the Welsh Auditorium with a cocktail hour, dinner and honoree presentation, followed by a dance.
Richard DeVos has been a longtime friend of the students of Grand Valley, says GVSU President Arend D. Lubbers. I remember when he was a Board of Control member his major concern was the interest and welfare of the students. He has given the university financial support but he has also given time, concern, and interest to students, faculty, and staff.
DeVos began his affiliation with the university in the 1960s when he came into the classrooms and lecture halls to share his knowledge with students.
One of the projects DeVos has been extensively involved with is the expansion of the Grand Rapids campus. DeVos and his wife, Helen, gave the largest private gift for the campus expansion through the Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation--$7.75 million for land, construction, and programs.
In addition to his involvement with the GVU Foundation, DeVos served on the GVSU Board of Control from 1975 until 1982, when he was inducted into the GVSU Hall of Fame. He has served as chairman of all the Foundation's enrichment dinners, held every two years since 1976.
