Kamrul Hasan

Category: Faculty

Nominators: Punith Kumar Amudala, Ranjith Kumar Patil, and Priscilla

Nomination:

Personal Statement: After nearly a decade in the corporate IT industry, I returned to academia driven by a passion for working with students and learning from the curiosity and energy of young minds. I feel a deep connection to international students in particular, as I see reflections of my own journey in their experiences. Working with students at Grand Valley State University has been profoundly enriching. I have the privilege of sharing in their milestones from the excitement of job offers and achievements to the challenges they face, including homesickness and uncertainty. I am deeply honored when students trust me enough to share both their successes and struggles. These relationships, shaped by diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives, continually remind me that diversity is our strength and that we grow through listening, learning, and supporting one another. Inspired by the hospitality I once received, I strive to provide the same sense of belonging and guidance to students navigating life far from home and loved ones. I am truly honored to have been recognized with the Pineapple Award 2026, which reflects the trust and meaningful connections I deeply value in my work with students.

Merlene Kowalski - Brun

Category: Staff

Nominator: 

Nomination:

Personal Statement: Engaging with international students is an incredible gift, and I do not take it for granted. My students have been some of my best teachers, including the international students I’ve had the chance to know. Learning about their journeys has been incredibly enriching for me, expanding and deepening my understanding of who my neighbor is. I recognize that it takes great courage and resilience to study abroad. Because of that, I see it as an honor to create space for international students to be vulnerable and share the transitions they are experiencing. I am deeply grateful for all the ways international students enrich our campus community, and for the ways my own life has been touched. Their presence, perspectives, and stories make our community stronger and more complete. Engaging with international students is not just about offering support; it’s about being changed by the encounter, about receiving the gift of relationship, and about allowing my own life and understanding to grow. I also see this recognition as part of our continuing commitment to create greater belonging on our campus. There is still important work to do to remove barriers, to nurture connection, and to ensure that international students feel seen, valued, and supported. I remain dedicated to contributing to that work. I am truly humbled by this recognition and grateful to know that I may have made an impact, however small.

The Prins Family

Category: Community Member

Nominator: 

Nomination:

Personal Statement: This is the second year my husband and I have supported international students, and it has been such a gift to our family! We love hearing their stories and learning about their cultures. Over time, these students have become like family to us. We are grateful to play a small part in helping them feel welcomed and supported as they begin their journey here in the U.S.

Adham AlHajHussein

Category: Student

Nominator: 

Nomination:

Personal Statement: Adjusting to life in the U.S. wasn’t that easy for me at first, it took me a few months to feel settled. Because of that, I always felt the responsibility to help other international students through that same transition and make their adjustment easier than mine. I’ve seen how challenging it can be to adapt to a new culture and build a new life from scratch. That’s why I wanted to be someone others could rely on, because sometimes having someone who understands makes all the difference. I’m truly grateful to the ISS team at GVSU for their support and the resources they provide. They played a big role in my journey, and I’m thankful to have been part of this community. Being able to support others has been one of the most meaningful parts of my time here, and I hope I made a positive impact along the way.

Holli Reyes

Category: Faculty

Nominators: Akhila Muppala & Erick Anangwe

Nomination: Holli Reyes is an incredibly welcoming and supportive individual who goes above and beyond to assist international students. She is deeply committed to students’ well-being, always prioritizing their health and overall adjustment. From helping with accommodation searches and internship opportunities to offering career guidance and motivation during challenging times, she consistently provides invaluable support. She actively engages international students in community events around Grand Rapids, encourages participation in career fairs, and ensures that they feel included and prepared for professional opportunities. Her enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to help make her a true asset to the international student community. She is a complete package of support, mentorship, and encouragement, making her truly deserving of this award... Holli has been a key support for international students by dedicating her time, finances, love and knowledge to ensuring international students have somebody to talk to whenever they feel down or need support. She understands how difficult it is for some of to socialize and interact because our accents and not so fluent command of the English language and pushes and motivates us to attend networking events. Better still, she is always there to cheer us on. She buys us candy and treats during special occasions like Thanksgiving (with her money, for all her students) which makes us feel seen and cared for. She is always there to cheer us on!

Personal Statement: Working with international students has taught me so many things that I carry with me on a daily basis. I get to hear stories of success, failure, and the day to day happenings of our students. Sometimes I'm the first person they share their job offers to and get to share their happiness and journey that lead them to this moment. I also share in their losses, home sickness, and anxieties. I’m honored when students feel comfortable enough to share good and bad times. Engaging with such a diverse range of cultures, languages, educational backgrounds is wildly enriching and makes my life richer. Every day with them reminds me how universal the drive for knowledge and community is, and I get to keep these connections for life. 

Melissa Baker-Boosamra

Category: Staff

Nominators: Elijah Fosu and Muhammad Qasim

Nomination: Before I ever set foot in the United States, Melissa poured out an incredible amount of care for my wellbeing as an international student. On my very first day in the Office of Student Life, she didn’t just introduce herself as the Associate Director, she opened the door to genuine friendship. I’ll never forget watching her download WhatsApp right before my eyes, just so she could reach out to me after work, because I didn’t yet have a U.S. phone number. That single act was only a tiny glimpse of the lengths she would go to help me feel settled and at home. I truly believe I’m the luckiest international student at GVSU because I met Melissa. From day one, she made me feel understood and supported; no matter the challenge, I knew I could count on her to come through. My transition was smooth in large part because she walked me through everything, always explaining why things worked the way they did. She shared her culture with me and welcomed mine in return, showcasing a level of cultural competence and openness I’ve rarely seen. Without hesitation, I’ve introduced countless international students to her, because I know first-hand how much she can ease our journeys here. From attending galas together to enjoying countless dinners, meeting her family, and the invaluable introductions she made for me in my field, her love, thoughtfulness, and genuine enthusiasm for supporting international students is simply unmatched. Because of Melissa, many of us have secured jobs and gained the confidence to truly thrive in a new environment. As I prepare to graduate this semester, I do so with immense gratitude, knowing I’ll always have a friend and mentor in Melissa. Thank you for the warmth, the guidance, and the countless memories we share, you’ll forever hold a special place in my story.

Personal Statement: I am so very grateful for the rich and wonderful relationships that I have had the privilege to develop with many bright and amazing international students over the years. I deeply value the contributions and diverse perspectives of international students to our campus community, and more broadly, to our society. Our diversity is our strength. We have some much to learn from and with one another and we are always better when we are willing to listen, learn, and grow together. I am grateful to have had many transformative experiences as an international student myself, having spent time as an exchange student in Australia, and studying, working, and travelling throughout Central America and in Spain. The hospitality that I consistently experienced while travelling abroad, and in communities where I am the minority, here in the US, has shaped me and inspired me to offer the same hospitality and helping hand to those who are newcomers, here in the US. I believe that we are all brothers and sisters, sharing the same light and breath of life, and that it is up to us to take care of one another. I am so grateful for the all of the life lessons I have learned and continue to learn from the determined, resilient, hardworking, caring, creative, and amazing international students at GVSU! I look forward to continuing to welcome, support, and partner with our newest neighbors and friends from around the world!

Sandy Goward

Category: Community Member

Nominators: Surendra Maddireddy  (Also nominated by Rebecca Dara, Venkanna Dora Arigela, Sanjay Akula, Prashanthi Velpula, Chitti Babu Yelugubandi, and Geethanjali Nalla.)

Nomination: I would like to nominate Sandy Goward for the Pineapple Award. She is my host family and also supports five other international students who are pursuing their master’s degrees at GVSU. From the start, she has treated us like family and made us feel completely at home here in West Michigan.  I was still in India when one of my roommates had a serious dental issue. Our student insurance didn’t cover it, but Sandy helped him find a clinic that offered a discount, and then paid the rest of the cost herself so he could get the treatment. When I heard this later, I was truly impressed by her kindness and generosity.  When I came to the U.S., one of the first events I attended was a New Year celebration. Sandy was there, and even though I had just arrived, she warmly welcomed me and wanted me to join her host family group. I was touched by how caring and friendly she was. That moment really made me feel seen and included.  Since then, Sandy has been helping me and my roommates with everything from setting up the apartment to attending important appointments. She helped us with visits to the bank and the state office to apply for our state IDs.  She checks on us regularly, drives us for groceries and shopping, and gives us health tips and guidance like a mom would. Her husband, Scott, is also very supportive, and together they create a truly warm and welcoming home.  Sandy’s support has made a huge difference in my experience as an international student. I’m very thankful for her, and I truly believe she deserves the Pineapple Award.

Personal Statement: My husband and I became involved with our International Students at GVSU through our church last September. We didn’t know too much about the program at that time but soon were involved with 5 Indian students and one graduate. We have grown to care and love these wonderful people and feel that they have blessed us as much or more than we have them. They are warm, wonderful people and they have become family to us through our time together: shopping, enjoying meals, spending time together at the holidays, visiting Meijer Gardens, bowling and celebrating birthdays.

Mustapha Muhammed Botchway

Category: Student

Nominator: Likhitha Chowdary Jampani

Nomination: He is an international student who understands the struggles of adjusting into a new environment and made sure I had a trusted friend who took his time and exercised the patience to help me navigate campus resources, directed me to some faculty staff and also assisted me to navigate town for things like getting a State ID. He also introduced me to some wonderful American students who had open arms to make me feel at home and also urge that I prioritize my academics before anything else. He made some of his home dishes for me and always had a chocolate candy or popcorn to light my mood. Some of my friends also shared with me how generous and kind he has been towards them.  He constantly encourages me to remember to pay it forward... I am grateful to have met such a wonderful person here at GVSU who genuinely helped me adjust very well (especially with trying to adjust to the Michigan winter weather).

Personal Statement: 

Adeline Borti

Category: Faculty

Nominators: Obed Boateng (Also nominated by Dancan Kibet & Albert Okwei)

Nomination: I believe Dr. Borti is deserving of the Pineapple Award for her exceptional hospitality towards international students due to her unwavering support and genuine kindness. From the moment I arrived, she went above and beyond to ensure a smooth transition, offering invaluable guidance and assistance. Her willingness to patiently listen to students’ concerns and provide personalized advice has made adjusting to a GVSU significantly easier. Not only has she led the African Students Council as the Advisor but she has also organized cultural events and gatherings to foster a sense of community, and taken the time to individually check in and offer assistance whenever needed. Dr. Borti’s dedication to ensuring every international student feels welcomed and supported truly sets them apart and exemplifies the spirit of hospitality.

Personal Statement: As an international scholar and educator with roots in Ghana and a career spanning both African and American institutions, I have experienced firsthand the complexities and rewards of navigating new cultural and academic landscapes. My work with international students at Grand Valley State University has been both personal and professional in nature. For example, I serve as a mentor, advisor, and advocate, often providing support that ranges from academic guidance to helping students access cultural networks and meet their basic needs. Whether mentoring students through fellowship applications, organizing cross-cultural programs, or advising the African Student Council, I am continually inspired by the resilience, brilliance, and global perspectives that international students bring to our campus. Receiving the Pineapple Award in 2024 was a deeply humbling and affirming moment. It symbolizes not only a shared recognition of hospitality but also a commitment to building inclusive spaces where international students feel seen, supported, and valued. This award reflects my belief that global engagement begins with local care, and I am honored to contribute in ways that help our students thrive both academically and personally.

Sara Maas

Category: Staff

Nominator:  Esther Muchai

Nomination: Sara opened doors for me when I first stepped into her office. She was a shoulder to lean on especially during the challenging times navigating into the new system. She invited me into family gatherings, and I became a part of her family. I will forever be grateful.

Personal Statement: Working in Outreach for the College of Engineering allows us to interact with over 10,000 K-12 students, teachers, industry partners, and community members each year.  We carry out our mission of “fostering interest in engineering and science among students, creating positive and hands-on learning environments” by working directly with schools and other community partners.  Frequently we get to work with underserved populations or with schools that don’t necessarily have the funding to do cool extras.  Many of the international students that have worked in Outreach with us have absolutely blossomed into a role of teaching/learning alongside kids.  Beyond that, I have come to have a great appreciation for “education”.  Some of my GAs have had incredibly challenging childhoods and wanted nothing more than to be a successful college graduate student.  I have learned from them, too – about their families and their traditions.  They have cooked me “spicy” food, and I have forced them to do Easter egg hunts with my family.  They shared their streamed wedding (from multiple time zones away) with me, and I have attempted to get them on ice skates with my kids.  I have given them rides home, and they have tried to give their roommates’ hamster away to my kids.  It’s give and take, and I usually get more than I give. 

Katinia Davis

Category: Community

Nominator:  Anonymous

Nomination: Katinia's kindness and willingness for helping new international students apply for SSNs at GVSU for our SSN Fairs is beyond remarkable. Navigating the SSN office and process for international students is difficult, but Katinia's willingness to come help us at our SSN Fairs, helps ease new students worries. We are grateful to her service over the years!

Personal Statement: Working with Grand Valley State University International students through my role at the Social Security Administration has been an incredibly meaningful experience. I’ve had the opportunity to assist many students as they apply for their first Social Security number, a process that often marks one of their first official steps in starting their educational and professional journey here in the United States. For many, it represents access, participation, and a sense of connection during their time at GVSU. Being able to guide them through that process, answer their questions, and help ease some of the uncertainty that comes with navigating a new system has been truly rewarding.

Each student I met brought a unique story, culture, and a perspective, and it was a privilege to have played even a small role in their journey at GVSU and beyond. Seeing their excitement and relief when the process is complete reminds me that patience, kindness, and genuine care can make a lasting difference.

Receiving the Pineapple Award is a true honor. The pineapple, as a symbol of hospitality, perfectly captures what I strive to provide. A welcoming experience that helps international students feel supported and encouraged. This recognition reaffirms why I love the work that I do.

Jhon Kerby Gerlin

Category: Student

Nominators:  Hadhil Alsubaie (Also nominated by Albert Okwei, Astha Thapa, Anjit Subedi, Bebeto Nyamwamu, Erick Anangwe, & Timothy Mugambi)

Nomination: Jhon Kerby's remarkable dedication as the President of the International Friendship Student Organization and the Communication Officer of the Graduate Student Association has made him an outstanding nominee for the Pineapple Award. His leadership has been instrumental in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for international students, offering guidance and fostering a community that values diversity. Beyond his official roles, Jhon's personal commitment to the well-being of international students sets him apart. His efforts to organize off-campus events provide a necessary break from the stresses of academic life, allowing students to relax and bond. Jhon's approachability, willingness to offer support, and genuine care for students' adjustment to a new culture have made them feel welcomed and at home.

Personal Statement: Working with international students has been one of the most significant parts of my academic career, motivated by my own experience of feeling lost and overwhelmed in a new environment. I know first-hand the difficulties of adapting to a different culture, which is why I became actively involved in the Graduate Student Association and co-founded IFI-GVSU. In these roles, I have focused on creating spaces where international students feel welcomed, supported, and connected, organizing off-campus events to help them discover American culture and make lasting friendships. Receiving the Pineapple Award in the past was a humbling recognition of this work and confirmed the importance of leading with empathy, community, and a sincere desire to make others feel at home.

John Capodilupo

Category: Faculty

Nominator:  Sherilyn Hulugalla

Nomination: Professor Capodilupo has always been a very encouraging teacher who simply wants the best in all his students. He has taught me for two semesters and he really helped me understand concepts of theory when I did not know the answer to certain questions in class. He is very passionate about what he teaches and is always willing to lend a helpful hand to his students when they need. I really do appreciate his patience and kindness over the years. As I was going through a hard semester last year, I once came into his office and told him I was not really financially stable enough to support myself and I needed to save up on money. I also told him I had little to no experience in working in a lab environment as I wanted to be in research one day. I told him about how hard it was to find lab work when the pandemic hit; since most of the labs were closed I could not really participate in any research studies, and I was worried for my future with the limitations and knowledge I had. He helped me get a job to work as a lab assistant here in the university. I will be forever grateful for his help and kindness in taking me where I need to go towards and teaching me to never give up on my goals.

Personal Statement:  

Breann Mann

Category: Staff

Nominator: Obed Boateng

Nomination:  Breeann is truly deserving of this recognition for her hospitality and unwavering support towards international students like myself. From the moment I arrived at Grand Valley, she made sure to make my transition as smooth as possible: she picked me up at the airport and brought me to my apartment (which she had helped me secure prior to my arrival on campus) and consistently checked in on me and answered any questions I had. She went above and beyond by offering to show me around the campus and introducing me to other students and staff, making me feel like part of the community. Being the first international student hired in her office, she helped me navigate the workplace by providing helpful tips and advice, making my experience at my job much more enjoyable. Breeann Mann has always been available to me and her kindness has made a significant impact on my experience here in West Michigan. Her dedication and support have made my time here more meaningful and enjoyable, and I am grateful for that. As the director of the CECI Undergraduate Advising Center, she seeks to come up with a program, different from the traditional advising programs, that is uniquely targeted to help international students in the CECI to successfully navigate and enhance their college experience by removing possible barriers. Her hospitality and generosity are truly unmatched.  I believe she is deserving of the Pineapple Award for her exceptional support towards international students.

Personal Statement: 

Noble & Margaret Billingsley

Category: Community Members

Nominator:  Ophelia Zornu (Also nominated by Emmanuel Addo and Obed Boateng)

Nomination: Noble and Margaret Billingsley deserve the Pineapple Award for their exceptional hospitality and support towards international students. They have been instrumental in helping myself and my friends adjust to our new environment both on campus and in the workplace. With an understanding of  our cultures, languages, and backgrounds, they have gone above and beyond to make us feel at home. Their warm and welcoming nature has made it easier for us to settle into our new surroundings and provided a sense of comfort and security. Furthermore, they hosted us during the Christmas break and new year, when every student have left campus to spend precious time with their families, which was a truly amazing experience. They showed us what it means to be a true host and how to make us feel like part of their family. Their generosity and kindness have been truly remarkable and we are incredibly grateful for all they have done for us. They have taken the initiative to introduce us to the local community, taking us to events and outings that showcase the culture and beauty of Michigan and places outside Michigan. They have also been a great resource in helping us navigate our new city, providing us with transportation, advice, and guidance on everything from finding the best restaurants to navigating the healthcare system. They have been there for us every step of the way and have shown us nothing but love and support. Their actions have truly enriched our experiences while in West Michigan and we will be forever grateful for their kindness and generosity.They truly embody the spirit of the Pineapple Award and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Personal Statement: The Pineapple Award we received in 2022 was unexpected and such an honor. Our three international students at the time Emmanuel, Obed, and Ophelia nominated us and we were quite surprised and filled with pride to be their American Friendship family. Through the Friendship Family ministry at our church, each year we are assigned new international students. The blessing of this relationship is the fact that all our students past/present become an extension of our family, and even after they graduate or move away they still stay connected with us . We also connect with some of our students when we’re in areas where they now live. As a result of these relationships, we’ve extended our association with our students to knowing their families in their respective countries as well as becoming surrogate parents to their friends (other international students in West Michigan). We are truly blessed to have this affiliation with international students in the area, and our lives are richer because of it.

Joseph Ohaeche

Category: Student

Nominator:  Jennifer Pope  (Also nominated by Aimable Iraguha, Patricia Okolo, Sayed Muhammad Saifuddin, Brian Kiptalam, and Jhon Kerby Gerlin.)

Nomination: This semester Joseph has willing taken on the role of GSA president and has worked tirelessly to help international graduate students find support while beginning their studies at GVSU.  Even before stepping up as president this semester, as communication officer, Joseph worked hard to inform all graduate students but in particular international graduate students about  resources available through GSA.

Personal Statement: Being an avid traveler and then an international student in Michigan - USA, provided me with much needed experience to understand what it feels like being new to an environment, exploring new cultures, navigating a new socioeconomic process whilst trying to ensure a healthy travel/academic/work-life balance as all of these personal experiences positioned me to also act as a resource to international student community around me through my positions as the President - Graduate Student Association and Student Representative - University Assessment Committee.  The international student community is an integral aspect of global oneness and diversity that helps fuel academic research, innovation and rich workforce development which is vital to the growth of any nation or sovereign state, and I'm proudly excited to see Grand Valley State University's continuous intentionality and contribution towards providing resources and support to the international student community.

Heather Gulgin

Category: Faculty

Nominators: Kanyanee Manapradit, Upoma Saha, Saheli San

Nomination: Professor Gulgin is very kind. She invited students for thanksgiving. We had tradition thanksgiving food and played games together. I was very impressed and would love to say thank you so much to her. Also it was my first thanksgiving here in US. All of my roommates left for their house celebrating Thanksgiving. I was staying upset in my hall. Because of Professor I was able celebrate the special day. I got to know that day, food and games. She personally came to pick us from our nearest bus stops. She was so kind and friendly. She introduced the culture of America. I like her so much. Thank you Dr. Gulgin.

Personal Statement: I think it takes a lot of courage for students to travel to another country and pursue further education. International students face challenges that others may never think about (language barrier, not owning a car, etc.).  And, since international students can’t just jump in a car and go home to visit with family when they want, holidays can be especially hard because so many other students leave campus to be with family, dining options may be limited, and it can feel lonely.  Thus, I decided to host a Thanksgiving meal and welcome anyone that wanted to come.

Emily First

Category: Staff

Nominator: Joseph Ohaeche

Nomination: I do think she is worthy of the Pineapple Award, for someone whom we have never actually connected or met in person, she has been selflessly dedicated towards assisting me in several ways and with several resources. Her assistance have come in many different amazing ways ranging in; KIND: Her words of encouragement when I was literally at my lowest sure gave me the needed boost of confidence needed to keep doing my best academically and also adapting to the whole new cultural and academic change (even though she not aware of what importance this played for me at that point till this moment).WITH RESOURCES: She always,(no matter the timing of the day) responded to my emails with (so much empathy) and provided different resources to help me with whatever issues/concerns I had at the moment. She single handedly had to make lots of calls to help with a good portion of my Winter Tuition (as I had difficulties getting funds from home due to some banking regulations with Forex in my home country). All of this she has done, even though I do feel is really not her responsibility, but she did with an open heart to help me feel comfortable adapting to living and schooling here.

Personal Statement:  Growing up my family use to host international students each summer and my grandparents would also serve as host parents to international students attending Hillsdale College. Due to both of these experiences I have wonderful memories of getting to know students from all over the world. Those experiences growing up really helped shape me and my appreciation for students who travel abroad and study internationally. I’m always blown away by international students determination, resiliency and graciousness for their experiences. I consider it a huge privilege to be able to serve as an advocate to international students within my role, as a Student Support Manager, on campus.

Kim & Jim Johnston

Category: Community Member

Nominators: Esther Noah, Abena Pinameng, Chibuzor Okoroafor

Nomination: From the time we met Kim and her family, they took us in like their own family. They gave me blankets, bedspreads, pillow covers, pillow, and some groceries to use while I settle in. They pick us up for church service every Sunday and send us to their house for lunch after church or take us out to a restaurant. They take us out shopping and sometimes bring us groceries in the middle of the week. After the international student office secured a date at the social security office, Kim picked me up from my apartment, drove me to their office, waited for me to complete my registration, and drove me back to campus. She also connected me to Anna Miller, a health administration to help me with an assignment (interview). The Johnston's include us in every plan they make for their family and make sure it favors us.  Almost every friend I have made outside of campus is through them. Currently, they are helping all of us get our Drivers License. What I love the most about them is the way they grant us open access to their house, check up on us every week and continually keep us in their prayers. I can't imagine how life during the winter would have been for me as an international student if I had not met this lovely family. 

Personal Statement: We're so blessed to be able to be a part of Neighbors International and the relationships we've been able to have with students because of this organization. Jim and I have always been interested in missions and have considered serving somewhere in our retirement. But God opened this door for us and brought "the world" to our home! Bringing four students to us from Ghana and Nigeria this year has been sheer joy. These kids worship with us each Sunday!  So we're not only "a family" but we're able to share our faith together as well.  Our eyes have been opened to beautiful cultures that are vastly different than our own... and yet connect our hearts over so many laughs, tears, prayers, food, games & experiences!  It's often said that when you have children you experience your own childhood all over again. Having an International "Friendship Family" with our GVSU students is like experiencing life in Michigan, USA again! It is a pleasure & privilege beyond what we ever imagined.  Thank you for providing us with this experience... we are very grateful!  We sure do love you Nicholas, Chibuzor, Abena and Esther!

Nikhila Paladugu

Category: Student

Nominators: Shweta Terkar, Divyangi Rathore, Lohith Tummala, Vamsi Paturi, Brooke Schaut, Pravalika Kurella, Manjusha Borra, Kaylan Vanguri, Adilakshmi Jammigumpula, Ramya Narne, Rupesh Siddagunta, Venkata Kandimalla, Prashanth Rangavajhala, Venkatasiva Boyalla

Nomination: Nikhila is always ready to help. She treats everyone with respect. Nikhila is so strong and interactive with everyone and makes everyone feel comfortable when she is around. Nikhila embraces diversity and cultural inclusivity among her peers. She goes above and beyond what is expected to provide support and guidance to international students. She is very kind, generous and shows love towards the people who are new to the place or area, helps them all the possible ways she can. 

Personal Statement: Grand Valley State University provided me many opportunities to network with people from all over the world. I consider myself blessed to have many friends at GVSU. Collaborating with people from many places, cultures, languages, and lifestyles has been a wonderful experience that has also helped me learn new things. Helping others and making new connections will help me stay positive and motivated.

John Capodilupo

Category: Faculty

Nominator:  Sherilyn Hulugalla

Nomination: Professor Capodilupo has always been a very encouraging teacher who simply wants the best in all his students. He has taught me for two semesters and he really helped me understand concepts of theory when I did not know the answer to certain questions in class. He is very passionate about what he teaches and is always willing to lend a helpful hand to his students when they need. I really do appreciate his patience and kindness over the years. As I was going through a hard semester last year, I once came into his office and told him I was not really financially stable enough to support myself and I needed to save up on money. I also told him I had little to no experience in working in a lab environment as I wanted to be in research one day. I told him about how hard it was to find lab work when the pandemic hit; since most of the labs were closed I could not really participate in any research studies, and I was worried for my future with the limitations and knowledge I had. He helped me get a job to work as a lab assistant here in the university. I will be forever grateful for his help and kindness in taking me where I need to go towards and teaching me to never give up on my goals.

Personal Statement:  

Breann Mann

Category: Staff

Nominator: Obed Boateng

Nomination:  Breeann is truly deserving of this recognition for her hospitality and unwavering support towards international students like myself. From the moment I arrived at Grand Valley, she made sure to make my transition as smooth as possible: she picked me up at the airport and brought me to my apartment (which she had helped me secure prior to my arrival on campus) and consistently checked in on me and answered any questions I had. She went above and beyond by offering to show me around the campus and introducing me to other students and staff, making me feel like part of the community. Being the first international student hired in her office, she helped me navigate the workplace by providing helpful tips and advice, making my experience at my job much more enjoyable. Breeann Mann has always been available to me and her kindness has made a significant impact on my experience here in West Michigan. Her dedication and support have made my time here more meaningful and enjoyable, and I am grateful for that. As the director of the CECI Undergraduate Advising Center, she seeks to come up with a program, different from the traditional advising programs, that is uniquely targeted to help international students in the CECI to successfully navigate and enhance their college experience by removing possible barriers. Her hospitality and generosity are truly unmatched.  I believe she is deserving of the Pineapple Award for her exceptional support towards international students.

Personal Statement: 

Noble & Margaret Billingsley

Category: Community Members

Nominators:  Ophelia Zornu (Also nominated by Emmanuel Addo and Obed Boateng)

Nomination: Noble and Margaret Billingsley deserve the Pineapple Award for their exceptional hospitality and support towards international students. They have been instrumental in helping myself and my friends adjust to our new environment both on campus and in the workplace. With an understanding of  our cultures, languages, and backgrounds, they have gone above and beyond to make us feel at home. Their warm and welcoming nature has made it easier for us to settle into our new surroundings and provided a sense of comfort and security. Furthermore, they hosted us during the Christmas break and new year, when every student have left campus to spend precious time with their families, which was a truly amazing experience. They showed us what it means to be a true host and how to make us feel like part of their family. Their generosity and kindness have been truly remarkable and we are incredibly grateful for all they have done for us. They have taken the initiative to introduce us to the local community, taking us to events and outings that showcase the culture and beauty of Michigan and places outside Michigan. They have also been a great resource in helping us navigate our new city, providing us with transportation, advice, and guidance on everything from finding the best restaurants to navigating the healthcare system. They have been there for us every step of the way and have shown us nothing but love and support. Their actions have truly enriched our experiences while in West Michigan and we will be forever grateful for their kindness and generosity.They truly embody the spirit of the Pineapple Award and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Personal Statement: The Pineapple Award we received in 2022 was unexpected and such an honor. Our three international students at the time Emmanuel, Obed, and Ophelia nominated us and we were quite surprised and filled with pride to be their American Friendship family. Through the Friendship Family ministry at our church, each year we are assigned new international students. The blessing of this relationship is the fact that all our students past/present become an extension of our family, and even after they graduate or move away they still stay connected with us . We also connect with some of our students when we’re in areas where they now live. As a result of these relationships, we’ve extended our association with our students to knowing their families in their respective countries as well as becoming surrogate parents to their friends (other international students in West Michigan). We are truly blessed to have this affiliation with international students in the area, and our lives are richer because of it.

Joseph Ohaeche

Category: Student

Nominators:  Jennifer Pope  (Also nominated by Aimable Iraguha, Patricia Okolo, Sayed Muhammad Saifuddin, Brian Kiptalam, and Jhon Kerby Gerlin.)

Nomination: This semester Joseph has willing taken on the role of GSA president and has worked tirelessly to help international graduate students find support while beginning their studies at GVSU.  Even before stepping up as president this semester, as communication officer, Joseph worked hard to inform all graduate students but in particular international graduate students about  resources available through GSA.

Personal Statement: Being an avid traveler and then an international student in Michigan - USA, provided me with much needed experience to understand what it feels like being new to an environment, exploring new cultures, navigating a new socioeconomic process whilst trying to ensure a healthy travel/academic/work-life balance as all of these personal experiences positioned me to also act as a resource to international student community around me through my positions as the President - Graduate Student Association and Student Representative - University Assessment Committee.  The international student community is an integral aspect of global oneness and diversity that helps fuel academic research, innovation and rich workforce development which is vital to the growth of any nation or sovereign state, and I'm proudly excited to see Grand Valley State University's continuous intentionality and contribution towards providing resources and support to the international student community.