President Haas receives diversity award

President Thomas J. Haas was recognized by the mayor of Grand Rapids as a leader of racial equity. Mayor George Heartwell named Haas a "Champion of Diversity" during his State of the City address January 19.

Heartwell said Haas demonstrates a personal passion for diversity, helps to influence thousands of students and staff and is helping to reshape the landscape of racial ethics in Grand Rapids.

“Dr. Tom Haas, in his relatively short tenure as president, has already made diversity a hallmark of his presidency,” said George Heartwell, Grand Rapids mayor. “He was a highly visible opponent of Proposition 2, and since its passage has directed the university to find new and innovative ways to pursue diversity within the bounds of the law.”

President Haas said: “This award is really an award for Grand Valley State University. As a university that is founded on liberal education principles, diversity continues in my mind to be an intellectual asset — it is must be valued as an integral part of our learning environment. After all, we do learn best from the experiences and wisdom of others. I am proud that our university is recognized as a leader in supporting and nurturing student success.”

Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Bernard Taylor and Grand Rapids Community College President Juan Olivarez were also recognized for their commitment to diversity.