GVSU, U.S. Army and Michigan National Guard announce partnership to expand ROTC opportunities for students

Grand Valley State University, the U.S. Army and the Michigan National Guard announced a partnership to expand Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) opportunities for GVSU students at the university's annual Veterans Day Luncheon on Nov. 11.

GVSU community members, veterans and military officials gathered at the Kirkhof Center on GVSU's Valley Campus for the announcement and luncheon, which included speeches from GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella, Michigan Army National Guard Lt. Col. Brian Snook, Michigan Army National Guard Brigadier General Scott House and Lt. Col. Evan Palmer, Western Michigan ROTC.

The announced agreement establishes an Army ROTC extension unit at Grand Valley, bringing dedicated leadership, military science education and expanded training opportunities closer to GVSU students. There are currently 49 students involved in GVSU ROTC, including 40 Lakers and nine students from Calvin University and Davenport University.

ROTC is a college-based program designed to train students to become commissioned officers in the U.S. Armed Forces while earning a bachelor's degree. This dual curriculum program allows students to enroll in standard college courses in pursuit of a major while taking specialized electives for ROTC.

The on-campus presence of ROTC will make it easier for GVSU students to pursue their academic ambitions alongside their commitment to military service. For years, GVSU students participated in Army ROTC through the university's relationship with Western Michigan University, often requiring students to travel to Kalamazoo for training and coursework.

“This partnership reflects what we believe higher education should do: open doors, remove barriers and create meaningful opportunities for students to put their learning into action," Mantella said.

House said strengthening ROTC opportunities at Grand Valley is an investment in young people who want to pursue an education and prepare for lives of service.

“We're investing in Michigan's future. The skills these cadets develop won't just prepare them for military service. They'll strengthen the organizations they lead, the communities they serve and the state we all call home,” he said.

Palmer said the agreement announcement coming on Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize those who have served and reflect on the sacrifice and commitment that service represents for future generations.

“Today, we also have an opportunity to look forward to the next generation of Americans who will answer that call to serve,” Palmer said. “Army ROTC exists to develop future leaders. This agreement makes that opportunity more accessible to students at Grand Valley.”