In 2024, Bernal was promoted to his current role as a
strategic partner to President Philomena V. Mantella. In addition to
overseeing central administration functions, Bernal developed
university strategies that aligned with long-term goals and oversaw
Grand Valley's Charter Schools Office, among other initiatives.
"I want to express my deep gratitude to Jesse for
the six years we have worked side by side. His energy, insight and
unwavering commitment have been invaluable. He has been not only a
trusted colleague and strategic partner but also a friend. While I
will miss his presence and partnership at GVSU, I am excited to see
him continue to shape the future of public higher education in this
new role," Mantella said in an email message to the Grand
Valley community.
Bernal said serving Grand Valley has been one of the
greatest honors of his life.
"Together, we built coalitions, advanced shared
equity leadership and reimagined what’s possible in higher
education," he said. "I’m deeply grateful to my colleagues
and the Laker family for their unwavering commitment to student
success and community engagement. As I begin this next chapter at
Western Connecticut State University, I carry with me the spirit of
collaboration and bold innovation we championed here. I will always
remain a proud advocate for GVSU’s mission of educational empowerment.”
Prior to Grand Valley, Bernal had worked in leadership
positions at Santa Clara University in California and the University
of California. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science
from Westmont College in California, and a master’s degree and
doctoral degree in education from UC Santa Barbara.
An active community member, Bernal has served on
national, statewide and local boards and committees, including the
Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan, Grand Rapids César Chávez
Committee, Grand Rapids Public Museum and YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.
Bernal's last day at Grand Valley will be July 2. Plans
for a celebration will be announced at a later date.
