Students drive solutions in higher education at the REP4 Midwest Learner Design Summit

Elevating student voice was at the forefront of the two-day REP4 Midwest Learner Design Summit on July 23 and 24. Over 180 high school students took part on Grand Valley’s campus, representing schools and youth-serving organizations from across the state of Michigan. 

REP4, which stands for Rapid Education Prototyping for Change, Learners, Community, Equity, is a national alliance founded by GVSU and eight other higher education partners across the country. 

The two-day summit was a culmination of a two-week program where groups were asked to reimagine the transition from high school to college. Through the process of Liberatory Design, groups interviewed current college students, identified problems they face and developed solutions, which were turned into pitches presented to their peers, student mentors and a panel of Grand Valley professionals. 

“REP4 puts students at the center of design, at the center of learning, at the center of creating solutions for higher education,” said LuWanna Williams, REP4 executive director. “You are helping us understand the barriers to college, to and through education, so that we're able to be the change agent for those things.”

Maria Benitz-Sabino, a rising senior at GVSU and lead student mentor for REP4, said that students feel empowered when they see that people want to hear their voice. “They've done all this work so quickly, and then they get to present it and be congratulated about it.” 

Benitz-Sabino, who is studying music education, has been involved in REP4 since she was in high school. “It's given me a space to develop who I want to be as a leader,” she said. “I get to serve students and support future change makers. I’m walking away knowing that I'm in the right place.”

REP4 participants also had the chance to explore Grand Valley’s campus and get a taste of college life through activities including rock climbing, chemistry experiments and dance class. 

Rebecca Muzamhindo, a rising senior at Kelloggsville High School, said that getting to participate in REP4 helped her understand what it will be like when she goes to college next year, and that struggling with that transition is completely normal. “Now I understand that there are ways to combat these problems and issues without having to be too worried. There's community that is willing to help you meet challenges and create new opportunities for yourself.” 

B. Donta Truss, GVSU vice president for Enrollment, Development and Educational Outreach, told the students there is incredible potential in each of them.

“I want you to keep that in mind as you are moving forward. You have incredible potential to solve any of this world's issues, concerns and problems. And your voice needs to be heard.”