Thompson Scholars celebrate community, recognize graduates

Natalee Williams was among the 223 students who earned degrees this academic year largely because of the generosity of a Detroit-area couple who believed in education and wanted to support students from working-class families.

Williams, who earned a bachelor's degree in social work, received a Thompson Foundation Scholarship. Bob and Ellen Thompson, through their Thompson Foundation, began funding scholarships at Grand Valley in 2008; it's the university's largest scholarship program.

"Receiving the Thompson Foundation Scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity, not only because it allowed me to attend college as a first-generation student," Williams said.

Thompson Scholars, including students who graduated in the fall and winter semesters, were recognized during a celebratory event April 21 at the Kirkhof Center. Foundation trustees attended the luncheon and toured student service offices on the Allendale Campus.

At the event, B. Donta Truss, vice president for Enrollment Development and Educational Outreach, said the Thompson Foundation is a great partner for Grand Valley, helping the university achieve its goal of increasing access to education.

"We know that for many of you, if not all, this scholarship is the reason you are here at Grand Valley because without it, a four-year degree seems unattainable," Truss said. "I'd like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Thompson and the Thompson Foundation for walking alongside Grand Valley and making a college degree a reality for so many students."

This year, 1,089 students received Thompson Foundation scholarships. Scholarship recipients are required to perform community service throughout the year. Williams, who plans to pursue a master's degree in social work and public administration at Grand Valley, said those events helped her become more involved in the West Michigan community.

"Belonging to the Thompson Scholars was so impactful on my time at GVSU," she said. "This experience allowed me to get involved in opportunities outside of Grand Valley and make a lasting impact on the Grand Rapids community."