We are the Office of Student Life
Mission
We empower students to discover their passions while building inclusive communities of belonging through experiential learning in campus programming, civic engagement, and student organizations.
Vision
Through transformative experiences, all learners will create lifelong memories, develop transferable skills, and be prepared to lead with integrity in a dynamic society.
Our Values
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND JUSTICE: We advocate for all students to have access to resources and equity in opportunity.
CONNECTION AND BELONGING: We support students in building meaningful relationships and communities of belonging.
DISCOVERY AND DEVELOPMENT: We inspire students to discover meaning and purpose as they engage, learn and grow.
FUN AND ENJOYMENT: We design fun and unforgettable GVSU traditions that instill Laker Pride.
COLLABORATION: We partner across campus and communities to enhance the student experience.
Staff Directory
First Name
Valerie
Last Name
Guzman
Pronouns
She/her
Email
guzmanv@gvsu.edu
Title
Director of Student Life
Team/Area
- Administrative
Website
gvsu.edu/studentlife
Office Phone
(616) 331-2357
About
Valerie Guzman has been part of the Office of Student Life at Grand Valley State University since 2008, following her initial experience as a graduate assistant. Before stepping into her current role as Director in September 2020, Valerie served in various capacities including leadership development, civic engagement, orientation, student organization funding, and eventually took on oversight of student organization development and fraternity and sorority life.
Valerie holds an Educational Specialist (Ed.S) degree in Leadership and a Master of Education in College Student Affairs Leadership, both from GVSU. She earned her bachelor's degree in Interpersonal and Public Communication from Central Michigan University, where she was deeply involved in campus life. Her three years as a Resident Assistant and four as an orientation leader—plus a few other campus roles in between—sparked Valerie’s passion for Student Affairs and built the foundation for the career she loves today. She also worked in student affairs at a private university in Miami, Florida before returning to GVSU.
Valerie is a passionate advocate for leadership development and is Gallup-Certified Strengths(R) Coach (Clifton Strengths), licensed facilitator for True Colors(R), and a MBTI Practitioner. Committed to service and mentorship, Valerie volunteers as an Assistant Troop Leader with Girl Scouts and holds leadership roles in Alpha Chi Omega, including serving as president of the local alumnae chapter.
Responsibilities
As Director, Valerie leads the department through strategic vision and program development in co-curricular engagement. She oversees a broad portfolio including student organizations, leadership programs, civic engagement, Greek Life, major campus events, and operations of the Kirkhof Center. She also serves as the advisor to the GVSU Student Senate. Valerie holds a deep belief in her team’s impact, working to ensure every student finds meaningful ways to engage, grow, and feel a sense of belonging beyond the classroom.
StrengthsQuest Themes
Responsibility - Relator - Discipline - Achiever - Harmony
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