GVSU was among the institutions recognized with a 2026 Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award from Insight Into Academia magazine for its dedication to academic excellence, belonging and community-building across campus.
Insight Into Academia is the nation's oldest and largest publication focused on best practices in higher education. The HEED Award recognizes 60 colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in creating welcoming and supportive campus environments.
Robert Shorty, vice president for People, Equity, and Culture, said the award is a meaningful accomplishment because institutions are evaluated holistically on their efforts to create a welcoming campus for students, faculty, staff and community members.
“While this recognition affirms our intentional work to date, educational equity is an ongoing commitment of action, not a static milestone," Shorty said. "Through our updated Inclusion and Equity Framework and our commitment to shared equity leadership, we are ensuring that every division, college and department takes ownership of this mission. Creating a culture where everyone feels they belong requires collective accountability, and this award energizes our community to keep moving forward together.”
Recipients will be officially recognized in the October issue of Insight Into Academia.
Sign up and receive the latest Grand Valley headlines delivered to your email inbox each morning.
