News
GVSU Portfolio Management Class Surpasses $1 Million in Assets
November 12, 2025
Grand Valley State University’s Portfolio Management course (FIN 428) has surpassed $1 million in assets under student management, marking a milestone achievement for the Seidman College of Business.
The course, taught by Professor Yatin Bhagwat, launched in Fall 2015 with an initial investment of more than $150,000 funded through donations raised by University Development, with major support from Gary Tilkin. The university provided an additional $125,000 in matching funds in 2016, allowing the portfolio to expand into a dynamic, experiential learning opportunity.
Students in the class research companies, make investment recommendations, and manage a real portfolio of assets. This hands-on experience allows them to apply classroom knowledge to real market conditions.
Student Benjamin Nader shared, “I have gained applicable experience in the evaluation and decision-making process behind investing and running a portfolio. This course has strengthened my understanding of real-world applications. It has taken me beyond theory and into logical decision making with tangible production.”
Student Connor Silka added that “this course has been impactful in the way I see market trends as well as the stock market as a whole.”
The milestone reflects nearly a decade of consistent growth and highlights Seidman’s commitment to providing students with applied, industry-relevant learning experiences that prepare them for success in the financial sector and beyond.