Barbee named alumni director

Grand Valley has named Christopher Barbee its new Director of Alumni Relations.

Christopher Barbee, a 1988 Grand Valley graduate, assumes his new position on Aug. 19. He returns to his alma mater after serving for 8 years as press secretary for U.S. Rep. Vernon Ehlers.

'It is an honor and privilege to return to my alma mater as the Director of Alumni Relations. I am extremely excited to return to Grand Valley and I look forward to meeting alumni members and renewing old friendships within the campus community,' Barbee said.

Barbee follows longtime Alumni Relations Director Nancee Miller, who retired in July after 17 years in that post.

'I want to thank Nancee Miller for the solid foundation she has built in the Alumni Relations department and for her dedication in spreading Laker pride everywhere,' Barbee said. 'It is my goal to continue to spread the enthusiasm she passed along to me over the years.'

Vice President for Development Maribeth Wardrop said: 'Chris is a solid member of the emerging generation of Grand Valley alumni who are taking their place as leaders in all walks of life. Over 60 percent of our alumni graduated since the late '80s, and as a 1988 graduate, Chris represents that group very well. His experience in Congress will help in our outreach to our alumni, and he has the personal character that will help both our pioneer alumni and recent graduates to connect with him.

'He has tremendous energy, passion, commitment and a belief in the value that Grand Valley brings to the community and state,' Wardrop added.

Barbee holds a bachelor's degree in broadcasting with emphasis areas in advertising, public relations and journalism. He was born and raised in Kalamazoo and is a graduate of Mattawan High School. He has a wife, Janice, and a daughter, Maya.