Leadership transitions announced for the Grand Valley University Foundation

Changes to the Grand Valley University Foundation (GVUF) have been announced, including new co-chairs and an executive director.

After a decade of service, Jim and Donna Brooks have stepped down as co-chairs of the foundation. The university is deeply grateful for their leadership and generosity and looks forward to honoring them at the next Enrichment Dinner. Dan and Pamella DeVos now serve as the new co-chairs, continuing a family legacy of extraordinary commitment to Grand Valley’s mission.

This transition coincides with the renaming of University Development to Institutional Advancement. The new name reflects the broader scope of the division’s work, which now encompasses philanthropy, alumni and community engagement, and the university’s strategic planning through the Reach Higher process. Laura Aikens continues to serve as vice president for Institutional Advancement, leading this expanded and increasingly integrated division.

GVUF and Institutional Advancement are deeply interconnected. While the foundation serves as the university’s official nonprofit fundraising entity, Institutional Advancement provides the strategic leadership, staff expertise and community partnerships that power GVUF’s work.

To ensure continued momentum in this shared mission, Dan Hurwitz has been appointed executive director of the foundation, in addition to his current role as associate vice president for Institutional Advancement. Hurwitz's leadership strengthens the connection between GVUF and Institutional Advancement, ensuring alignment and allowing Aikens to devote additional focus to university-wide initiatives.

Foundation history

Founded in 1963, GVUF began as Grand Valley’s nonprofit fundraising arm with just $95 — including a $20 gift from one of its founders. Three West Michigan community leaders, Richard Gillett, Keith Baker and Philip Buchen, incorporated the foundation to mobilize philanthropic support for the new college taking shape in Allendale.

From its beginning, GVUF’s purpose was clear: to serve as the university’s philanthropic bridge to the community. The foundation helped secure the land, infrastructure, academic programs and student scholarships that allowed Grand Valley to grow. As the university expanded across West Michigan, GVUF also evolved, broadening its board, leading major campaigns and attracting private investment that accelerated the university’s development.

Today, GVUF continues to play a vital role by ensuring Grand Valley can innovate and thrive through sustained private support, complementing the university’s public funding sources.