Celebrating Women Awards
The Celebrating Women Awards has been an ongoing tradition for GVSU for many years, and a longtime collaboration between the Women's Commission, Positive Black Women, the department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and the Center for Women and Gender Equity. Originally held along with the typical academic award cycle in the spring, it was reimagined in 2022 and brought back in 2023 in the fall combined with our Fall Welcome.
Last year marked a particularly special occasion as a record number of attendees received our keynote from Keri Becker, Director of Athletics, we recognized Pat Smith, University General Counsel, as our Lifetime Achievement honoree, and we announced the renaming of the Women's Commission Community Impact Award in honor of a devoted supporter and leader, Jennifer Palm.
Please see below for a photo gallery of the event, select quotes that capture just a sampling of the amazing women who inspire and lead the work here at GVSU, and more information about the awards recognized during the celebration.
“They are fierce, kind, and generous advocates for equity for both students and staff and for student success.”
—
Anonymous
“Your love and care for students, colleagues, and GV are unparalleled! You give so much of yourself, we all need to say 'thank you'.”
—
Anonymous
“Thank you to the incredible women, specifically women of color, femme LGTBQ+ people, and those in other marginalized communities who represent, lead, and inspire.”
—
Anonymous
The Women’s Commission is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 Celebrating Women Awards!
This is your chance to spotlight individuals across all staffing areas of Grand Valley who inspire us, lead with passion, and make a real difference on campus and in our community.
Nominations are now open for the four awards presented by the Women's Commission and will close on September 1st, 2025.
|
Award |
Presented By |
Criteria |
Due Date |
Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Emerging Professional Award |
Women's Commission |
- Contributes to an environment that supports the rights of women - Seeks to create opportunities for interaction among women |
September 1 |
|
|
Unsung Hero Award |
Women's Commission |
- Contribution to the mission, vision, and values at GV - Positively impacts GV and/or the surrounding community from behind the scenes - Improves lives of others through generous acts of kindness |
September 1 |
|
|
Jennifer Palm Community Impact Award |
Women's Commission |
- Contribution to the advancement of women at GV and/or the community - Empowers and/or inspires other women as a mentor, role model, or friend - Commitment to community service |
September 1 |
|
|
Maxine Swanson Advocacy Award |
Women's Commission |
- Contributes to an environment that supports the rights of all women at GV - Creates opportunities for interaction among all women on campus |
September 1 |
|
|
Barbara Jordan Award |
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies |
- Lasting and profound contributions in the areas of women’s learning, scholarship, and leadership |
March 1 |
|
|
Jean Enright Scholarship Award |
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies |
- A degree-seeking junior or senior majoring or minoring in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies - Demonstrated participation in community and/or campus service that is centered on gender equity |
March 1 |
|
|
Positive Black Women Scholarship |
Positive Black Women |
- Any current GV student that has made a significant service-related contribution to African-American women or girls and/or a demonstrated commitment to African American Women’s issues |
March 1 |
|
|
Outstanding Student Award |
The Gayle R. Davis Center for Women & Gender Equity |
- Any current GV junior or senior who demonstrates a commitment to gender justice |
Typically Sometime Winter Semester |
Contact the Center for Women and Gender Equity for more information |