Celebration of new space emphasizes student connections, reducing barriers to education

Students and university leaders officially opened a new physical space that represents the hallmarks of Grand Valley: expanding access to education, creating pathways to success and making connections.

The Office of Student Support and Belonging (OSSB), on the second floor of Kleiner Commons, provides services for students involved in scholarship and support programs, such as Oliver Wilson Scholars, the HBCU/HSI Consortium, Fostering Laker Success, Phoenix Pact, T-4 Scholars, Gear Up and Challenge Scholars. 

Five success coaches are dedicated to creating individualized plans to help students navigate their college journey by addressing barriers and connecting them to resources. Students involved in those programs, and others, can meet with their success coaches and utilize the space to study and connect with their peers. 

During the September 26 grand opening, President Philomena V. Mantella said OSSB aligns with Grand Valley's mission of inclusive excellence and student-centered innovation.

"This physical space for the Office of Student Support and Belonging represents the university's promise to current and future students. It's a commitment that every learner will find support and community at Grand Valley," Mantella said. "We will help get you here by reducing barriers. The people who work in this space will help you succeed in your college journey."

B. Donta Truss, vice president for Enrollment Development and College Futures, said this space was intentionally created to ensure that doors to college access would be opened, and students who enter through those doors would feel empowered and thrive.

“This new space represents a bold step forward in our unwavering commitment to student success, equity and community,” Truss said. “Here, students will discover more than resources: they will find relationships, mentorship and a true sense of belonging. The Office of Student Support and Belonging will serve as a powerful conduit, ensuring that our graduation rates and overall student outcomes not only rise, but do so in ways that reflect Grand Valley's values."

Jason Trice, member of GVSU's Board of Trustees, told the audience that he was an Oliver Wilson Scholar at the very start of the program.

"I've experienced firsthand the power of belonging and the mentorship this office represents," said Trice, a 2000 GVSU graduate. "Back then, it was Oliver walking you into rooms to make connections."

Jaylan Brackens understands those connections. Before the start of his first year, Brackens spent seven weeks on campus with the Oliver Wilson Scholars program after he graduated from high school. Now a sophomore, Brackens works at the OSSB front desk and serves as a peer mentor to other scholars.

"The summer camp was like a big step into college," he said. "Everyone here at OSSB is so supportive and helpful. They have played a big role in my success here and in my future career."

Jessica Saint Amour, assistant vice president for Student Support and Belonging, said Grand Valley has a long history of helping students remove barriers to education as well as creating a sense of community. This department, she said, serves as an umbrella to house resources for programs like the Kalamazoo Promise, Pickard Scholars and more.

"Our amazing staff works to help students feel like they belong," Saint Amour said. "Through the support of OSSB, students build a connection to campus, create meaningful relationships and understand what it means to truly be a Laker for a lifetime."