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DSA Overview Video


Class of 2026 class photo - students assembled on the football field to form the shape of the GVSU letters

Mission

We inspire and support learning for all Lakers. 

Students sitting on the GVSU lawn

Vision

To be a national leader in innovative and inclusive student affairs practice — where students and staff thrive, teams lead with heart, and impact lasts a lifetime. 

Woman smiling during graduation with diploma in hand

Guiding Principles

Well-being
We promote holistic wellness and supportive systems that uplift our community. 

Equity, Belonging, and Accessibility
We cultivate inclusive environments where all people are seen, heard, and empowered. 

Community of Care
We nurture a culture of empathy, respect, and connection where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. 

Accountability
We act with integrity, transparency, and responsibility, guided by our principles and informed by data. 

Relationships
We foster open communication and authentic partnerships to break down barriers and reach shared goals. 

Engagement
We enrich student life through dynamic, hands-on experiences that spark reflection, growth, and lifelong learning. 


Division of Student Affairs Departments

Division of Student Affairs Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Statement

The Division of Student Affairs is committed to continued excellence by learning, growing, and acting within our GVSU Laker community. We center students in everything we do and strive to create a safe and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We acknowledge that the United States has a complex history of embedded and structural inequities that create barriers for many people to full participation in public life, including in higher education.  By offering dynamic opportunities for culturally informed and responsive programming, and by fostering environments for brave and rich dialogue, we strive to promote a university community that values difference. Through this work, Grand Valley Lakers are empowered to challenge oppressive systems and cultures and to create socially diverse and just environments within Grand Valley State University and our society.

Division of Student Affairs Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Resources to Navigate Executive Orders

Grand Valley has a dedicated webpage to help Lakers navigate executive orders and other federal actions that could affect higher education or members of the GVSU community. To learn more about the university resources available to you, visit the Division of People, Equity and Culture's website.

 

View resources related to recent executive orders


Upcoming Events

QPR: Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training (INT 100/201 Approved)

April 6, 2026 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

This program dispels common misconceptions about suicide, helps individuals recognize the warning signs of suicide, and empowers GVSU community members to save lives using the nationally-recognized...

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Open Speaker Meeting

April 12, 2026 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

AA Open Speaker Meetings are open to all! These meetings are a great way to learn about what AA is, what it does, and what it does not do, too. During these meetings, a member of AA will share their...

Hiking Trip - Hocking Hills 2026

April 17, 2026 All Day

Located in the picturesque sandstone region of southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills offers some of the most scenic areas in the entire state.  Through a series of casual day-hikes, participants will...

Social Spokes Sundays (Rescheduled from 3/22)

April 19, 2026 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Join the Outdoor Adventure programs for some informal gatherings of bike-minded people at GVSU. We'll share our passion for all things bicycle related, enjoy some food, & keep the stoke high...

Therapy Dogs

April 21, 2026 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Do finals have you feeling overwhelmed?  Come destress with the University Counseling Center and West Michigan Therapy Dogs! While therapy dogs are trained to interact with...

Toast to the Class of 2026

April 22, 2026 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Winter & Summer 2026 graduates, you're invited to join President Mantella and GVSU Alumni Relations to celebrate your graduation and what it means to be a Laker for a Lifetime....

View More Upcoming Events


GVNext News

A military member crosses the street.

GVSU receives gold status designation from G.I. Jobs in veteran-friendly schools report

When military veterans are in the transition process to civilian life, the G.I. Jobs list of schools is the one provided to those looking into higher education.

Mar 26, 2026

Robert Shorty, left, and Derrick Johnson on stage seated in the Kirkhof Center, GVSU vertical banners behind them

NAACP president: 'Do well for yourself, do good for your neighbors'

Derrick Johnson gave a rescheduled MLK keynote presentation in the Kirkhof Center.

Mar 18, 2026

speaker in white polo shirt with left arm raised before a group of people seated at tables

Women's History Month kicks off with summit for middle, high school students

Keynote speaker Sharnell James challenged participants to be unapologetically themselves.

Mar 9, 2026

Senior forward Abbey McCallion celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Eastern Michigan.

‘It means everything’: GVSU Women’s Ice Hockey Club cherishes opportunity to continue playing

For 18 years, the GVSU Women’s Ice Hockey Club has extended the playing careers of young athletes transitioning from high school to college. The team members who have played the sport their entire lives said they are grateful for the opportunity.

Mar 5, 2026

View More GVNext News



Page last modified January 13, 2026