Leaders at Grand Valley and across West Michigan are celebrating the life of Barbara Gordon, who died on February 1, 2026. She was 91.
Grand Valley benefited from Gordon’s passion for art and her belief in the power of creativity to inspire students. In 1998, along with her husband, George, Gordon donated a significant set of Mathias J. Alten paintings to the university, helping establish what would become Grand Valley’s renowned collection of Alten’s work.
“Barbara understood how deeply the arts can shape a university and inspire the lives of students,” said President Philomena V. Mantella. “Through her generosity and vision, she strengthened the cultural life of our campus and opened new opportunities for students to experience the power of creativity.”
In recognition of their generosity, the George and Barbara Gordon Gallery was dedicated in 2000 and later expanded through an additional gift from the couple in 2008. The Gordons also established an arts fellowship to provide a GVSU student with a unique summer learning opportunity at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute.
“Barbara truly understood the lasting value of art and education,” said Nathan Kemler, director of the GVSU Art Museum. “Her generosity wasn’t just about building a collection, it was about creating experiences that inspire students and strengthen our community.”
Gordon also played an important role in supporting the growth of Grand Valley’s health professions program, contributing to the construction of the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, a gift that was recognized with the naming of the George H. and Barbara A. Gordon Seminar Room. In more recent years, she became involved with Storytime in the Park, a summer program where families connect weekly to enjoy a story read-aloud, free ice cream cone and book to take home.
The Grand Valley University Foundation honored the Gordons at the Enrichment Dinner in 2005 for their outstanding commitment to the university’s growth and development. Gordon was also recognized by the Spectrum Health Society for her generosity and support.
Sign up and receive the latest Grand Valley headlines delivered to your email inbox each morning.
