News from Grand Valley State University
table of Philly's Faves products, plush dogs, t-shirts, lapel pins, pennants and a photo book

Monroe Center Laker Store collection offers new way to support GVSU scholarships

Shoppers at the Laker Store on Monroe Center can now purchase items with a purpose. Proceeds from a recently launched collection will directly benefit GVSU scholarships.

Inspired by President Philomena V. Mantella’s deep commitment to proudly displaying her Laker pride, the “Philly’s Faves” line-up is a curated, limited-edition selection of items hand-picked by the president and available exclusively at the Monroe Center store.

Maggie Lancaster in pink print pants and dark sweater looks at products on a display table
Laker parent Maggie Lancaster looks at items on the Philly's Faves display table at the Laker Store on Monroe Center.
Image credit - Kendra Stanley-Mills

The initial Philly's Faves collection includes a plush toy inspired by Grand Valley’s First Pup, Lily, complete with a personalized dog tag; a GVSU-branded water bottle that includes an attached dog bowl; “Proud Laker Works Here” pennants; magnet university lapel pins; “Turning What if Into What Is” t-shirts; and GV shoe clips, a signature item often worn by Mantella.  

"As I begin my seventh year as president of GVSU, I continue to be in awe of the way our community shows up for our students," said Mantella. "The care and engagement from our alumni, community members, faculty and staff in support of our learners is inspiring. I love this fun new way that we can invite everyone to show their Laker pride while raising funds for scholarships.” 

President Mantella stands with members of the GVSU dance and cheer teams inside the Laker Store on Monroe Center
President Philomena V. Mantella stands with members of the GVSU dance and cheer teams at the Laker Store on Monroe Center.
Image credit - Kendra Stanley-Mills
Mindy Kalinowski Earley, '01 and '08, makes a purchase at the store October 16 during the launch of Philly's Faves.
Mindy Kalinowski Earley, '01 and '08, makes a purchase at the store October 16 during the launch of Philly's Faves.
Image credit - Kendra Stanley-Mills

Mindy Kalinowski Earley, '01 and '08, founder and president of Family Wealth Factor, shopped at the store on October 16 during the launch event. 

"I'm similar to President Mantella in that I love wearing and supporting the GVSU brand," Earley said. "The store makes it easy for people to stop in and purchase apparel or other items and, at the same time, support students."

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