News from Grand Valley State University

University Development

GVSU snake disease research featured on National Geographic

The eastern massasauga rattlesnake, the only venomous species of snake native to Michigan, is currently on the U.S. Endangered Species List due to the ongoing threat of snake fungal disease. A team of faculty and students at Grand Valley are hoping to change that through their research, which was recently featured on National Geographic. The National Geographic video spotlights Jennifer Moore, assistant professor of natural resource management, and her team conducting research at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings.

Jun 12, 2017


GVSU launches Laker Effect Campaign to further student success

Grand Valley leaders June 7 announced the launch of the Laker Effect comprehensive campaign. The campaign will provide increased support for students and allow university programs and facilities to stay current with changing needs of employers.

Jun 7, 2017


Scholarship announced in Chamberlain's honor

Departing Frederik Meijer Honors College director Jeff Chamberlain was surprised May 23 when a new scholarship was announced in his honor at a reception celebrating his career at the university.

May 24, 2017


PIC announces study abroad scholarship recipients

The Padnos International Center has announced its study abroad scholarship recipients.

May 16, 2017


PR major receives Student of the Year award

Jaclyn Ermoyan, an advertising and public relations major who graduated in April, received the PR Student of the Year award at the 2017 PRoof Awards, held May 4 at Studio D2D in Grand Rapids. While at Grand Valley, Ermoyan served as CEO of GrandPR, the university's award-winning, student-run public relations firm.

May 10, 2017


Holocaust survivor's memoir supports endowment, educates students

Joseph Stevens survived World War II, despite facing great odds, with his wit, deception tactics, and luck. He successfully evaded Hitler's presence in Europe by concealing his Jewish identity while working at various jobs, and eventually sabotaging Nazi missions with the Polish resistance. His memoir, "Good Morning: A Life Story of Courage and Survival in the Face of Nazi Aggression" supports the Joe Stevens Freedom Endowment, which funds lectures related to human rights and freedom.

May 3, 2017


Provost surprised by announcement of scholarship

Provost Gayle R. Davis was surprised by her colleagues April 18 when they announced a scholarship fund in her name at the first of two retirement celebrations.

Apr 18, 2017


Grand Valley announces Design Thinking Academy

The Design Thinking Academy will help students become innovative thinkers and problem solvers who are able to make lasting impacts in the world by utilizing the design thinking process. The deadline for applications is May 5 and the academy, which will begin in fall 2017, is open to all Grand Valley undergraduate students, regardless of major.

Apr 7, 2017


Faculty and students working to remove rattlesnake species from endangered list

There are almost 20 species of snakes that are native to Michigan, but the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is the only venomous one. Due to snake fungal disease, the species slithered its way onto the U.S. Endangered Species List in September 2016. Jennifer Moore, professor of biology, and a team of students have been conducting ongoing research in an effort to save the species.

Apr 3, 2017


Students win media awards for TV, radio and news

Several students working for GVTV, WCKS "The Whale" radio, and the "Lanthorn" recently received multiple awards for their work at Grand Valley. Broadcast content produced by GVTV and WCKS students recently received honors from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Student Media Awards. Staff for the "Lanthorn" also won awards in the 2016 College Better Newspaper Contest, sponsored by the Michigan Press Association.

Mar 13, 2017