CLAS Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence Program

The CLAS Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence Program invites outstanding alumni from the departments of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences back to campus to share their post-graduation experiences with the GVSU community. Through the program, our distinguished alumni have the opportunity to share their insights about what constitutes strong academic preparation for students.


2025 CLAS Distinguished Alumni

Group photo of 2025 Alumni-in-Residence honorees at luncheon ceremony on November 7, 2025

Aleksandar Bogdanić

Aleksandar Bogdanić

Ph.D. Communication, University of Belgrade
M.S. Communication, Grand Valley State University (1991)
B.A. English and Literature & Journalism, University of Sarajevo

Aleksandar Bogdanić holds degrees in English and Literature, and in Journalism from the University of Sarajevo, an MS in Communications from Grand Valley State University (USA), and a PhD in Communication from the University of Belgrade. Dr. Bogdanić is a dedicated scholar with extensive experience in communication and journalism. He began his career as an English teacher and later worked as a research assistant and visiting faculty in communication at Grand Valley State University. He then served as an associate researcher at the University of Belgrade and went on to teach English and Communication at the University of Banja Luka, where he also chaired the Departments of English, and Journalism and Communication. 

After completing a Fulbright year at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Bogdanić co-founded the Banja Luka College of Communication, serving as Dean, Director, and part-time professor. He also taught at the University of Banja Luka and was a visiting professor in Graduate and Doctoral programs at the Universities of Tuzla, Sarajevo, Mostar, and at the School of Market Communication Agora in Zagreb, as well as a visiting scholar at Fordham University in New York. He served as a mentor and committee member across all academic levels, held roles on faculty appointment committees, and contributed as reviewer, editor, and board member for national and international journals and academic publications in Communication and journalism. He was a member of the Council for the development of higher education and quality assurance, advisor to the Prime Minister of Republika Srpska on higher education, media consultant to the British Embassy in BiH, and an accreditation expert for the BiH Agency for the development of higher education and quality assurance. Dr. Bogdanić led research projects, published numerous books and articles, and participated in international conferences. His work has been recognized with several awards, including awards from the Universities of Banja Luka and Mostar. Since 2023, he has served as Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ambassador to Canada. 

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden

J.D., University of Detroit-Mercy School of Law 
B.S. Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2010)

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden joined the Michigan Supreme Court on January 1, 2023, when she was appointed by Governor Whitmer, making her the first Black woman to serve as a Justice. A graduate of Southfield Public Schools, Justice Bolden chose to remain in Michigan for her studies, receiving her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. While serving as a state representative in the Michigan House of Representatives, Bolden advocated for Michiganders as a member of the Judiciary Committee and focused her work on criminal justice reform and crafting and passing bipartisan legislation to protect survivors of sexual violence. Justice Bolden successfully passed pieces of critical bipartisan legislation into law, including the “Medically Frail” Prison Reform package, the revision of the Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act, and the “Address Confidentiality for Survivors of Domestic Violence” package.

Justice Bolden has a deep respect for the law and has seen the depth and breadth of law in her years of practice and lawmaking. After becoming a member of the State Bar, Justice Bolden practiced as a criminal defense attorney. She then served as a Judicial Law Clerk in Wayne County’s Third Circuit Court under the Honorable John A. Murphy. As a Judicial Law Clerk, Justice Bolden performed legal research, made recommendations to Judge Murphy on legal interpretation based upon relevant case law, and drafted opinions on a myriad of civil issues. She then practiced as a civil litigation attorney with Lewis & Munday, P.C., in several practice areas before joining the Michigan Legislature in 2019.

Alongside her daily work, Justice Bolden is an active member of her community, serving as a member of the Oakland County Bar Association, Wolverine Bar Association, Straker Bar Association, the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan, National Congress of Black Women-Oakland County, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Justice Bolden has received several awards, including the 2019 Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs, Inc. “Young Women Lifting As We Climb Image Award,” the 2019 African American Leadership Awards “Emerging Leader Award,” a 2020 Michigan Chronicle “40 Under 40 Award,” 2021 “Legislative Economic Development Champion Award,” and the 2021 Michigan Credit Union League “Legislator of the Year Award.”

Jennifer Bourbina

Jennifer Bourbina

M.H.S. Biomedical Sciences, Grand Valley State University (2012)
B.S. Biology, Emphasis in Neuroscience and Physical Education, Muskingum College

Jennifer Bourbina is a passionate and driven college professor. Currently, she is a tenure track faculty member at Delta College having previously taught at Grand Valley State University and Grand Rapids Community College. Beyond holistically supporting her own students, Jennifer runs a podcast and YouTube channel focusing on student development and biomedical content. Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree from Muskingum University and both of her master’s degrees from Grand Valley State University. She completed a Master of Human Health Sciences in 2013 focusing on adult neurogenesis in Dr. Dan Bergman’s lab. For her 2024 Master of Education, Jennifer worked with Dr. Paul Bylsma on the impact of flipped course design. Her work bridges pedagogy and neuroscience, focusing on equity in education, evidence-based teaching practices, and supporting first-year students. Jennifer is a mother of two, Madilynn (age 10) and Lawrence (age 7). Her husband, Brad Bourbina, is also GVSU alumnus, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.

Brett Brockman

Brett Brockman

M.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, Emphasis in Biotechnology, Grand Valley State University (2014)
B.S. Biochemistry & Biology with a Cellular and Molecular Concentration, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (2012)

Brett graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2014 with a Professional Science Master’s degree in Biotechnology. During his time at Grand Valley, he completed an internship at Syzygy (pronounced si·zuh·jee), now known as Empirical Bioscience, where he purified and tested Taq DNA Polymerase. After graduating, Brett briefly returned to his parents' basement in Wisconsin before taking a short-term job in St. Paul, Minnesota, testing milk. (Fun fact: the minimum fat content of whole milk is 3.23%, while skim milk maxes out at 0.5%.) He then moved to Hastings, Nebraska to work for the USDA at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, focusing on swine reproduction and meat quality. The center was once an ammunition depot during WWII—many of the bunkers remain and are now frequented by cows attempting to climb them. While in Nebraska, he started a family that has grown to include three beautiful (and sometimes chaotic) children—he's fully immersed in parenting life. Brett eventually settled in Des Moines, Iowa, where he joined the Protein Engineering team at Corteva Agriscience (better known as Pioneer). He initially jumped into structural biology work—despite having no prior experience—and over time transitioned into designing experimental templates and building data capture systems.

Megan Damico

Megan Damico

Ph.D. Environmental Health Sciences, University of North Carolina Greensboro (2023)
B.S Biomedical Science, Microbiology Emphasis, Grand Valley State University (2018)

Dr. Megan Damico is the Associate Director of the Focused Initiatives Team (FIT) at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, where she leads strategic efforts to grow and organize North Carolina’s bioeconomy by identifying new life sciences opportunities and solving complex challenges. She joined NCBiotech in 2023 as a FIT intern conducting foundational research and landscape analyses of the state’s bioeconomy, later serving as a NC STEM Policy Fellow supporting economic development initiatives. Previously, she was a Policy Entrepreneur and Bioeconomy Policy Fellow at the Federation of American Scientists, where she advanced national bioeconomy policy focused on breakthrough technologies and environmental sustainability. Dr. Damico earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Health Sciences from UNC Greensboro, studying strain-level diversity in the honeybee gut microbiome and honeybee probiotic policy, and holds a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Grand Valley State University. 

Krista A. Geister

Krista A. Geister

Ph.D. Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan (2013)
B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, Grand Valley State University (2008)

Krista A. Geister, Ph.D. graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2008 with a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology. She was awarded the Outstanding CMB Student Award twice and conducted two independent research projects; one with Dr. Pei-Lan Tsou focused on human genetic variation and a second with Dr. Margaret Dietrich focused on expression of a novel soybean gene in response to various stimuli. From GVSU, Dr. Geister went on to attend the University of Michigan to receive her PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology in 2013. While there, her thesis work focused on the molecular and genetic etiologies of two spontaneous mouse models of skeletal dysplasia and infertility in the laboratory of Dr. Sally A. Camper. Dr. Geister continued her training in forward genetics during her postdoctoral work in the laboratory of Dr. David R. Beier at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. In 2018, Dr. Geister accepted a position at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, reporting to Dr. Cat Lutz as a Technology and Resource Development Scientist. In 2019, Dr. Geister accepted a position as a Study Director in the department of Model Generation, Genotyping, and Reproductive Sciences, where she draws upon her experience in and passion for genetics to design and deliver mouse models to researchers throughout the scientific community. A native Michigander, Dr. Geister was granted the opportunity to move home to Michigan in 2022 and maintain her position as a Study Director at The Jackson Laboratory as a remote employee. When she is not designing mouse models, Dr. Geister enjoys spending time with her family, pets, and caring for her (too) many houseplants. She is thrilled to return to where her scientific career began and meet the next generation GVSU Cell and Molecular Biology students. 

Jordan Kenneth Karsten

Jordan Karsten Headshot

Ph.D. Anthropology, The State University of New York at Albany
M.A. Anthropology, The State University of New York at Albany
B.S. Anthropology, Grand Valley State University (2009)
B.S. Health Sciences, 2009, Grand Valley State University (2009)

Jordan Karsten earned a Bachelor of Science in anthropology and a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Grand Valley State University in 2009. He then earned both a Master's and Ph.D. in Anthropology at the State University of New York at Albany. Following graduate school, he was hired in 2014 at the University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh, where he now holds the rank of Professor of Anthropology. Within anthropology, his research has focused on the human skeleton and its interpretation in both ancient and modern contexts. Since graduating from GVSU, he has conducted research on ancient skeletons from Ukraine and has used the data to reconstruct ancient warfare and European population history. He has also helped develop methods for sex and ancestry estimation in skeletons recovered from forensic contexts. In addition to his work at the university, Dr. Karsten also serves as the forensic anthropologist for the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory. In that role he has helped identify victims from across the state and contributes to law enforcement teams focused on solving cold cases. He also participated in an expedition that resulted in the identification of an American soldier killed in World War II. His work has been recognized with awards from groups including the Wisconsin Association of Homicide Investigators and the German War Graves Commission. 

Allison Kranz

Allison Kranz headshot

J.D., University of Michigan Detroit-Mercy (2009)
M.S. of Intercultural Human Rights Law, St. Thomas University (2010)
B.S. Sociology, Grand Valley State University (2005)
B.S. Public Administration, Grand Valley State University (2005)

Attorney Allison Kranz, JD, LLM, "The Nerdy Immigration Lawyer," provides strategic immigration planning to address the visa, work, and citizenship goals of her clients. Allison's interest in immigration is personal. She is married to an immigrant, and her family tree currently extends to Ethiopia, Canada, Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, Egypt, Ghana, Rwanda, and Colombia. She is the Managing Partner at Lodestone Legal, LLC. Allison was recognized as an Elite Lawyer for excellence in immigration law in 2022 and 2023. In 2019, she was named a Women in the Law Award winner by Lawyer Monthly magazine. She was also a member of the team that won the global W.K. Kellogg Values Award, the Kellogg Company’s highest honor. During her time at Grand Valley, Allison was a member of Students Against Sweatshops and a founding member of Act on Racism. She was a Student Senate Vice President and a Multicultural Assistant for Housing and Residence Life. Her advocacy was eventually recognized with the Most Outstanding Sociology Student Award and the Thomas M. Seykora Award, which honors seniors who have made exceptional contributions. 

Jeremy Llorence

Jeremy Llorence headshot

M.F.A. Creative Writing and Playwriting, Western Michigan University (2015)
B.A. Writing (2012)

Jeremy Llorence is a Black American playwright from metro Detroit. His ten-minute, one-act, and full-length plays have been seen in venues all over the Midwest including Columbus, Chicago, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Milwaukee. He is an Associate Professor in the English Department at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio, where he teaches courses in playwriting, fiction, advanced narrative, composition, and others. He serves as the faculty advisor to Quiz and Quill, Otterbein’s student literary journal. He strives to help students find passion, style, and voice in their creative work, mainly through irrepressible energy and off-beat humor. Jeremy is the recipient of many awards for his creative work and teaching, including the 2022 Individual Excellence Award from the Ohio Arts Council, the New Teacher of the Year Award from Otterbein University, and a CATCO/GCAC Playwriting Fellowship. Jeremy holds a BA in Writing from Grand Valley State University (2012) and an MFA in Creative Writing and Playwriting from Western Michigan University (2015). 

 

Nathaniel Ryan Mehmed

Nathaniel Mehmed headshot

M.P.A. Emphasis in Urban and Regional Policy/Planning and Public Management, Grand Valley State University (2015)
B.S. Geography and Planning, Environmental Studies minor, Grand Valley State University (2012)

Nathaniel Mehmed is an Executive and Senior Planner with the consulting firm Williams & Works in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Planning in 2012, Nathan began working as a Planner for the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission and enrolled in the Master of Public Administration program at Grand Valley State University. Nearing the end of his graduate studies, he transitioned to the private sector in 2014 as a Community Planner with Williams & Works. Nathan now has more than 13 years of professional planning and zoning experience and has assisted dozens of communities with comprehensive planning, recreation planning, transportation planning, zoning, public engagement, economic development, and GIS services. As a partner at Williams & Works, Nathan is involved in running the day-to-day business operations in addition to his professional consulting roles. He has provided training through the Michigan Association of Planning and presented at multiple professional conferences related to urban planning and municipal government. Outside of the office, Nathan serves on the board of the John Ball Area Neighbors (JBAN) in Grand Rapids, as a captain in the Grand Rapids Champs League (GRCL), and as a mentor in the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies Cook Leadership Academy.

Sarah Myles

Sarah Myles headshot

M.B.A. Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University (2025)
B.A. Advertising & Public Relations, School of Communications, Grand Valley State University (2010)

An experienced leader with a unique blend of communications & analytics expertise, Sarah specializes in strengthening brands and reputations by embedding insights into strategy development—bridging the gap between communications, business objectives, and measurable outcomes. With a career spanning both agency and corporate roles, Sarah has built and led high-performing teams, redesigned operations, and advised leaders across a range of disciplines—including sustainability/social impact, inclusion, government relations, and philanthropy —on navigating opportunities and risks. At McDonald’s, she established the company’s first in-house global Communications Measurement & Insights team, transforming how the wider function approaches planning and optimizes its impact. Prior to the Golden Arches, she spent a decade at Edelman Data and Intelligence, helping Fortune 500 firms apply data-driven strategies to enhance stakeholder engagement and storytelling. She thrives on solving complex challenges, modernizing communications, and empowering teams with the tools, frameworks, and context they need to succeed. Whether it's consulting on crisis responses, launching a global reputation tracking program, or pioneering the integration of predictive analytics in planning—she’s always focused on driving meaningful, measurable change. 

Emily Najera

Emily Najera

M.F.A. Visual Art, University of Nevada - Reno (2013)
B.A. Photography and Communications, Grand Valley State University (2007)

Emily Najera is a photographer and visual artist dedicated to capturing the essence of America’s evolving landscapes. With years of experience in photography, Emily has developed a singular perspective on documenting the shifting scenes of cities, roadways, and buildings. Her key themes include recording revitalization and change, such as the redevelopment of historical sites, and blending artistic vision with journalistic storytelling to address diverse topics. Najera took all of the images for this exhibition on highways US 40 and US 50, which historically brought travelers across the state. Emily earned a B.A. degree from Grand Valley State University in Michigan in 2007 and a M.F.A. degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2013. She now lives in Reno with her family. 

Emily’s work often focuses on the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, frequently photographing buildings and places after dark. She said, “Exhibitions are crucial for my artistic growth, providing opportunities for community engagement, experimentation with new techniques, and collaboration with other artists.” She aims for each exhibition to showcase her work, allow her to reflect on her artistic journey, and connect with audiences. Her website is https://www.emilynajera.com/ .

Najera’s photography has appeared in leading publications such as the New York Times, Bloomberg News, NPR, ProPublica, and more. Notable projects include covering the revitalization of Historic Brush Park in Detroit, documenting train stations in the Midwest, and most recently exploring housing affordability issues in Washoe County. These projects highlight her skill in blending artistic vision with journalistic storytelling.

Nicholas Pike

Nicholas Pike

Ph.D. Physics, Ohio State University (2015)
B.S. Physics, Grand Valley State University (2009)

Dr. Nicholas Pike is an accomplished research scientist at AV (formerly BlueHalo) in Dayton, Ohio. He collaborates closely with scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory to explore solid-state and soft matter systems. His expertise lies at the intersection of first-principles calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. His research focuses on linear and nonlinear optical materials, ferroelectrics, 2D materials, and their heterostructures, as well as polymer systems. In addition to his research, he is a Python developer responsible for creating a package that streamlines computational workflows for first-principles and molecular dynamics simulations. He earned his Ph.D. in 2015 from The Ohio State University (OSU), where his dissertation addressed analytical models of condensed matter systems. He also holds a Master of Science in Physics from OSU and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Grand Valley State University. His postdoctoral research at the University of Liège (Belgium) and the University of Oslo (Norway) further refined his expertise in computational materials science. With over 40 publications, he has made significant contributions to his field, covering topics such as defects in graphene systems, anisotropic thermal expansion in solid-state systems using first-principles calculations, linear and nonlinear optical properties of transition metal dichalcogenides, defective optical systems, and, more recently, solid-state ferroelectric materials. His work enhances the understanding of material characteristics from the atomic level to the macroscopic scale, facilitating advancements in nanotechnology and materials engineering. When not working, he enjoys being outdoors in his garden with his daughter, remodeling his house, and helping family and the community with their projects.

Lucas Smielewski

Lucas Smielewski

B.S. Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Grand Valley State University (2022)

Lucas Smielewski earned his bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics and Statistics from Grand Valley State University in 2022. While at GVSU, his interest in baseball research flourished—most notably through a Monte Carlo simulation study examining the impact of proposed MLB rule changes, such as pitch clocks and automatic ball/strike calling, on game duration and on-field action. He now works as a Scouting Analyst with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he leverages his background in data science and baseball experience to support amateur player evaluation and talent acquisition strategies.

Taylor Thorpe

Taylor Thorpe headshot

PsyS., School Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2017)
M.S. in School Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2016)
B.S. Psychology, Grand Valley State University (2012)

Taylor Thorpe graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from GVSU in 2012 and was part of the inaugural cohort for the GVSU School Psychology graduate program. She graduated with her Psychological Specialist (PsyS) degree in School Psychology in 2017. She has worked for more than a decade in urban public school settings, with 8 years as a school psychologist and now as the Supervisor of Specialized Instructor for Muskegon Public Schools. She is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) and holds certification in Special Education Administration. Taylor’s work focuses on supporting students with disabilities, improving equitable practices, and supporting special education compliance at the district level. As a lead trainer for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention for Schools (TCIS), she coordinates district-wide training and has developed systems to monitor, and ultimately reduce, the use of emergency interventions. She plays a key role in designing district processes that enhance special education services and effective support for K-12 students. In addition to her work in Muskegon, Taylor has been an adjunct professor at GVSU and has helped train future school psychologists through guest lectures and fieldwork supervision.


Past CLAS Distinguished Alumni Honorees

2024 Honorees

Dr. Elizabeth A. La Rue
B.S. Biology (2010)
M.S. Biology (2012)
Ph.D. Biological Sciences (2017)

Elizabeth La Rue is a West Michigan native, growing up in Muskegon. Before earning her B.S. in Biology at Grand Valley State University in 2010, she went to Oakridge High School and Muskegon Community College. She also earned her M.S. in Biology at GVSU, doing her research at the Annis Water Resources Institute on invasive aquatic plants. She earned her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences at Purdue University in 2017, working with Great Lakes beach plants.

Dr. La Rue is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso. Her current research uses big data and remote sensing to uncover mechanisms underlying spatial patterns in species distributions and the structural diversity of ecosystems. She is also interested in developing remote sensing approaches for improving the monitoring and management of nuisance species and those of conservation concern.

Dr. Nkrumah Grant
B.S. Biology (2014) *
Ph.D. Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (2020)
Ph.D. Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior (2020)

Nkrumah Grant's journey from challenging beginnings to esteemed microbial and evolutionary biologist is nothing short of remarkable. Raised in Saginaw, MI, Nkrumah's path was not without obstacles. After experiencing setbacks in his youth, including time in juvenile detention, he succeeded in graduating from an alternative education high school in 2006, which marked the beginning of his academic journey. Nkrumah pursued his bachelor's degree in biology at Grand Valley State University, where he distinguished himself as a McNair Scholar.

In 2014, Nkrumah embarked on his graduate studies at Michigan State University, specializing in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. His doctoral research focused on understanding the genetic underpinnings of bacterial fitness using Escherichia coli from an esteemed experimental evolution study.

Nkrumah earned two doctorate degrees in 2020: one in microbiology and molecular genetics, and another in ecology, evolutionary biology, and behavior. His research yielded six impactful publications, showcasing his expertise in the field.

In November 2023, Nkrumah joined the faculty at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he leads a dynamic multi-discipline research lab. His lab focuses on unraveling the genetic mechanisms of Vibrio cholerae, the causative agent of cholera.

Dr. Christina M. Rudzinski
B.S. Chemistry (1996) 
Ph.D. Inorganic Chemistry (2001)

Dr. Christina M. Rudzinski is the assistant head of the Biotechnology and Human Systems Division at Lincoln Laboratory. In this role, she shares responsibility for research, development, evaluation, and technology transfer of advanced technologies and systems for chemical and biological defense, human health and performance, and global resilience to climate, conflict, and disaster threats.

Prior to this role, she was the leader of the Counter–Weapons of Mass Destruction Systems Group, and her oversight broadly spanned the development of defenses against chemical, biological, and explosive threats. Highlighted research areas include red teaming advanced chemical and biological threats, mitigating threat impact through advanced detection architectures and capabilities, improved global threat interdiction through advanced autonomous aerial and maritime systems, and the development of capabilities to characterize and rapidly recover from chemical and biological threat events and natural pathogen outbreaks.

Jaclyn Panter
B.A. Classics (2008) 
M.A. Architectural History and Criticism (2010)

During her time at GVSU, Jaclyn also spent a semester at John Cabot University and attended the American School of Classical Studies at Athens for their summer program. She spent two years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison completing course work towards a master’s degree in art history. She recently returned to graduate school at Eastern Michigan University where she completed her certificate in Historic Preservation in April 2024.

After leaving UW-Madison, Jaclyn spent seven years gaining experience in brick-and-mortar retail, acting as a merchant and store manager for Banana Republic and H&M. In 2017, she joined Meijer’s corporate office as a space planner. She also worked on buying teams, in analytics, and in product flow support while helping the retailer navigate the pandemic and coinciding supply constraints. In 2022, Jaclyn moved to Campbell’s Snacks as a category manager. Additionally, she is an independent contractor for a local Historic Preservation firm that helps with Historic Tax Credit development projects in the Grand Rapids area.

Jaclyn spends her free time with her husband, Kyle, and their four-year-old son, Fitzgerald. They are avid soccer fans and Liverpool FC supporters, attending every game possible in the U.S. and hope to make it to their home field of Anfield someday.

Abby Black
B.A. English Language and Literature (2011)
M.S. Library and Information Science (2018)

Abby started her career as a youth librarian in a small rural library after graduating from GVSU with a B.A. in English. Her professors and peers inspired a deep love for the written word. Working in libraries just fit. GVSU instilled in her a deep sense of belonging and propelled her towards meaningful purpose beyond books. She worked in that small library for 3 years and decided to pursue her masters degree in Library and Information Science at Wayne State University. She worked as a youth paraprofessional for the Kent District Library and was promoted to youth librarian after finishing her education. There she was able to spearhead a system-wide play space revamp to reflect early literacy best practices and curated play as the early literacy workgroup leader. All 20 branches were transformed to reflect the local community and spark children's imaginations and curiosity.

She is passionate about providing safe, dynamic, and restorative spaces that invite all people to be seen and heard. She received training through the International Institute of Restorative Practices and had the honor to present at the Public Library Association Conference 2024 on creating maternal support groups in libraries using restorative practices. Currently, she is serving as the Library Director of the Allendale Township Library.

Andrew DeWitt
B.S. Geology (2010)
M.S. Geospatial Science in Geology and Geography (2012)

Andrew DeWitt is a prominent figure in the environmental consulting industry, particularly in the renewable energy sector. Currently serving as the Director of the Environmental group at Atwell, LLC, Andrew focuses on Power and Energy projects, where he manages renewable energy project teams and oversees environmental initiatives nationwide. His responsibilities include guiding team deliverables, client relationship management, and providing strategic advice and risk-management support for clients developing solar, wind (both onshore and offshore), and battery storage assets. DeWitt's expertise in managing multi-disciplinary teams on large-scale, complex projects spans various industries, including power and energy, oil and gas, mining, and telecommunications.

Before joining Atwell in March 2021, DeWitt worked as a senior project manager at Environmental Resources Management in West Michigan. His career is marked by notable successes in managing major capital projects that required challenging permitting and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance. He has managed NEPA projects under the direction of almost ten different lead federal agencies across the United States and its territories. Additionally, DeWitt has extensive experience in due diligence, brownfield redevelopment, and remediation projects throughout the Midwest.

Alice Kalinowski
B.A. History (2015) 
M.S. Library & Information Science (2016)

Alice is the Public Services Manager at the Stanford Graduate School of Business Library. After graduating from Grand Valley, Alice earned a Masters in Library and Information Science at the University of Pittsburgh. Afterwards, she worked as the Business Librarian at the University of Pittsburgh before moving to Stanford.

As a Business Librarian, Alice helps students, staff, and faculty find and use business information, which can include finding historical financial data, identifying market opportunities, and gaining access to historical newspaper data for text and data analysis. In 2020, Alice moved into her current position as a Public Services Manager. She is also responsible for overseeing the library's circulation functions and research support; managing online instructional content; supporting collection development, subscription management, and data acquisition efforts; supervising multiple direct reports; and working with the library leadership team on strategic planning.

Alice is an active member in the Business Reference and Services Section of the American Library Association and is the co-founder and co-editor of BISdex, which is a website that provides quick insights into leading and emerging business information sources by and for librarians. She also publishes on a variety of topics related to business librarianship with a current emphasis on business research data.

Stephanie Nauta
B.A. Spanish & Latin American Studies (2019)
B.A. Social Work (2019) *

Stephanie Nauta (she/her) graduated from Grand Valley in 2019 with a B.A. in Spanish, a Bachelor of Social Work, and a minor in Latin American Studies. She was involved in the Latino Student Union, the Cook Leadership Academy, and the Writing Center during her time at Grand Valley. During the height of the pandemic, she worked as an immigration legal assistant at Avanti Law Group. Moving from for-profit to nonprofit, she then worked for a state-wide, progressive, grassroot organization, Michigan United, as a Legal Services Coordinator, running citizenship and ESL classes in Grand Rapids for a diverse immigrant population. She has assisted over 150 legal permanent residents on their journey towards U.S. citizenship, obtained a federal grant from USCIS for her work, and educated folks in the community on their rights when interacting with ICE and the basics of voting.

She has traveled around Latin America and is especially passionate about U.S.- Latin American relations and advocating for fair international policies that disrupt the current pattern of neocolonialism. She is a firm believer that immigrants are an integral and beautiful part of our national tapestry, and she is committed to embodying values of welcome in her career. Ask her about her cats, Guatemalan or Chilean history, or Brene Brown, and you’re in for a long conversation. 

Brian Metz
B.S Physical Education K-12 Professional Instruction (2011)
M.Ed. Technology (2018)

Brian Metz earned his bachelor's degree in physical education K-12 professional instruction at Grand Valley State University in 2011. He earned his master's in education with a concentration in technology at Augustana University in 2018.

Since graduating GVSU, Metz has taught elementary, middle, and high school physical education classes for West Ottawa Public Schools with the majority of his work being done at the elementary level. In addition to teaching elementary physical education, Metz also has served as the boys’ varsity tennis coach at West Ottawa for the last 7 years. Compiling a career record of 86-31-2 Metz has been recognized as Regional Coach of the Year twice (2020, 2023) to go along with 3 conference titles, 3 regional titles, and 4 state finals appearances in a row.

Metz has been married to his wife Courtney since 2017 and they have a beautiful three-year-old daughter Amilia, born in 2020. A resident of Holland, Michigan, Metz enjoys working with all learners and seeing them experience success both in his classroom and outside his classroom engaging in extracurricular activities that they enjoy.

 

Ellie Shannon
B.S. Physical Education, emphasis in sport leadership (2010)
M.S. College Student Personnel (2012)

Since October 2022, Ellie has served as Wake Forest Athletics' Senior Associate AD of Administration and Strategic Operations. In her current role, Shannon is a member of director of athletics senior staff and is tasked with applying her operational knowledge to a variety of projects and functions across Athletics. Additionally, she serves as the sport administrator for women’s basketball, men’s golf, and women’s golf. Shannon's daily responsibilities include providing operational support and leadership in the planning of various projects across a variety of units within Athletics. She also develops and implements revenue plans and serves as the primary contact for Athletics with ASM Global, Proof of the Pudding and the Winston-Salem Open (an ATP World Tour 250 event). Most recently, Shannon took on a leadership role with the infrastructure and operational planning for the new mixed-use entertainment development adjacent to Allegacy Stadium, “The Grounds.”

She originally joined the staff at Wake Forest in 2012-2013. From 2012-2022 she advanced from an Assistant Director to a Senior Associate AD, Athletic Event and Facility Operations. A native of Otisville, Michigan, Shannon came to Wake Forest following a year (2011-2012) at UConn as the Huskies' event manager where she managed many postseason tournaments.

Shannon is married to her wife, Julie, and they have a daughter, Clarke.

 

Matthew Wittbrodt
B.S. Exercise Science (2010)
M.S. Exercise Physiology (2012)
Ph.D. Applied Physiology (2018)

Dr. Matthew Wittbrodt is a Quantitative Research Engineer at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, IL. Following graduation from the Exercise Science program, Wittbrodt completed a M.S. in Exercise Physiology from Western Michigan University in 2012, a Ph.D. in Applied Physiology from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2018, and a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine investigating the efficacy of novel wearable devices to mitigate the effects of trauma and PTSD.

His research on neural and cognitive effects resulting from dehydration has been profiled by media outlets such as NPR, Forbes, Newsweek, Popular Science, Reuters, Runner’s World, and CNN. Wittbrodt’s current role employs machine learning and artificial intelligence to improve healthcare by developing tools to assist clinician diagnosis and automating clinician workflows at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, a top ten ranked hospital by U.S. News & World Report, and its affiliates. To date, Wittbrodt has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers, two book chapters, and has spoken at a highlighted symposium at the American College of Sports Medicine Annual meeting.

 

 

Dr. Karisa Antonio
B.M. Music (2003) 
M.M. Music (2005)
D.M.A. Music (2009)

Dr. Karisa Antonio’s work centers around the arts and collective impact. As Senior Director of Social Innovation and Learning at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO), she leads the DSO’s Detroit Strategy.

Karisa holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts degree from Stony Brook University, a master’s degree from Yale University, a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University, and an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from Baruch College. She is certified in Results-Based Accountability™.

As a clinician, Karisa has recently presented for the League of American Orchestras, the Americans for the Arts National Convention, the National Health Care for the Homeless Annual Conference, the University of Michigan, Bowling Green State University, Lawrence University, and others.

As an oboist, Karisa has recorded for Cantaloupe, Naxos, EMF, Last Things, Albany, and Carrier record labels and been nominated for a 2023 GRAMMY Award. Karisa performs with the Wet Ink Large Ensemble, named the “Best Classical Music Ensemble of 2018” by the New York Times. She received awards at the Fischoff, Coleman, Chamber Music Yellow Springs, and Chesapeake chamber music competitions.

Lydia Murphy
B.A. Philosophy (2011)
J.D. Law (2014)

Lydia Murphy earned her bachelor’s degree in philosophy at Grand Valley State University in 2012. In 2015, she earned her law degree at Western Michigan University Cooley Law School. Today, Lydia lives in Houston, Texas where she is Assistant Chief Counsel for The Department of Homeland Security.

Lydia’s work in public service includes serving as Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas and Assistant District Attorney for the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office in her hometown of Conroe, Texas. As a prosecutor, Lydia witnessed the positive impact of mentorship. The young adults with a mentor rarely returned to criminal activity. Because of this, Lydia volunteers as a Big Sister with the Greater Houston Chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

When Lydia is not in court, she is traveling the world exploring cultures, foods, and new adventures. Ask her about her recent trip to Spain.

Jillian Zirnhelt                         
B.A. International Relations and Economics (2011)
M.A. International Economics and Finance (2016)

Jillian Zirnhelt ventured from Goodrich on the east side of Michigan to attend Grand Valley, where she double majored in International Relations and Economics. Her time at GVSU included studying at East China Normal University in Shanghai, China, both semesters of her junior year. She fell in love with the region.

Traveling in Southeast Asia between semesters led to a summer internship with a non-profit youth empowerment organization in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. After graduation in 2011, Jillian pursued a hands-on approach to development economics by becoming a Peace Corps Volunteer. While waiting to ship off (to a small village in Fiji), she spent the winter as a ski instructor in Park City, Utah. At the close of her time as a Peace Corps volunteer in 2014, she moved to Washington, DC. In 2016, Jillian completed a Master’s degree in International Economics and Finance from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). She spent the next four years performing research first for the World Bank and then the International Monetary Fund. Currently, Jillian is pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Pittsburgh, where she was selected to be a Werner Fellow for Economic History. Most recently, she was selected to participate in the National Bureau of Economic Research Behavioral Macroeconomics seminar in Cambridge in May of 2024.

Dr. Casey Michael Jelsema
B.S. Statistics (2008)
M.S. Applied Statistics (2011)
Ph.D. Statistics (2013)

Casey arrived at GVSU in 2003, discovering the field of Statistics quite by accident. He earned a B.S. in Statistics from GVSU in 2008, he continued his education at Western Michigan University, completing his Ph.D. in 2013 with the goal of becoming a professor. Following graduation, he first worked as a post-doctoral research fellow at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences before joining the faculty in the Department of Statistics at West Virginia University.

In 2020 he joined Sandia National Laboratories as a Principal Member of the Technical Staff. In this role, Casey is asked to use creative applications of statistical methods, conduct research and development of new statistical methodology, as well as consult and mentor colleagues.

Casey’s work has been used on the most advanced hypersonic missile systems in the world, and he is a partner in development of next-generation computational simulations, as well as tools for their verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification. He gets called on for assistance ranging from developing sampling plans for a single component production line to developing methods to quantify the safety, security, and reliability of entire nuclear weapon systems.


2004 - 2023 Honorees

  • 2017: Holly Chadwick B.S. Anthropology (2001), M.S. Social Work (2003)
  • 2015: Teague O'Mara B.S. in Anthropology & Biology (2001), Ph.D. in Biological Anthropology (2012)
  • 2013: Hannah Rodgers B.A. in History & Anthropology (2009)
  • 2013: Lisa Rose Starner B.A. in Anthropology & French (2000), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2003)
  • 2011: Troy Schindlbeck B.S. Anthropology (1995)
  • 2009: Deborah Rotman B.A. in Anthropology (1993)
  • 2007: Robert Kopperl B.A. in Anthropology & B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
  • 2003: Robert H. Cichewicz B.S. in Biology (1994), B.S. in Anthropology (1994)
  • 2018: Jesse Lincoln B.S. Biology (2007), M.S. Biology(2012)
  • 2017: Angela Mrozinski B.S. Natural Resources (2004), M.S. Environmental Organizing and Advocacy
  • 2017: Aaron Parker B.S. Natural Resources (2003), M.S. Biology (2007)
  • 2016: Ebony Parker-Featherstone B.S. in Health Science (2002), M.D. (2006) 
  • 2015: Nathan Bacheler B.S. in Biology (1997), Ph.D. in Zoology (2008)
  • 2015: Matthew Cooper B.S. in Biology (2002), M.S. in Biology (emphasis in aquatic science) (2009), Ph.D. in Biology (2014)
  • 2013: M atthew Breen B.S. in Biology (2005), M.S. in Biology (emp. in aquatic science) (2008)
  • 2013: Michelle Green B.S. in Biology (2000), 
  • 2011: Andrew Alverson B.S. Biology (1997)
  • 2009: Elaine Videan B.S. in Biology (1997)
  • 2007: Kara Milliron B.S. in Biology (1995)
  • 2004: Michael Henshaw B.S. in Biology (1994) 
  • 2003: Robert H. Cichewicz B.S. in Biology (1994), B.S. in Anthropology (1994)
  • 2002: Keri Konarska B.S. in Biology (1999)
  • 2001: Kristin Schelling B.S. in Biology (1996)
  • 2023: Kevin Swift B.S. Biomedical Sciences, GVSU (2013), Ph.D. Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan (2019)
  • 2019: Embriette Hyde B.S. Biomedical Sciences (2010), B.A. Spanish (2010), Ph.D. Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Science
  • 2015: Michelle LeMieux B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & Classics (2009), D.O. in Osteopathic Medicine (2013)
  • 2014: James Rook B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1999), M.P.H. in International Health (2001), D.O. in Osteopathic Medicine (2006)
  • 2012: Robert Burke B.S. Biomedical Science (1996)
  • 2010: Sarah C. (Hull) Mulder B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (2000)
  • 2005: Nicolette Baumgartner B.S. in Biomedical Science (1983)
  • 2004: Deb Joseph Dell B.S. in Biomedical and Health Sciences (1985)
  • 2003: Kristofer Cooper B.S. in Health Science (1997), M.S. in Physical Therapy (1999)
  • 2003: David Harris B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1983), B.S. in Physical Therapy (1985)
  • 2002: Don Straube B.S. in Physical Therapy (1989)
  • 2002: Rick Williams B.S. in Biomedical Sciences (1998)
  • 2001: Stephen Mills B.S. in Health Sciences (1983), Masters in Health Sciences (1985)
  • 2023: Fahmy Mamuya B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, GVSU (2006), Ph.D. Biological Sciences, University of Delaware (2014), Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Harvard Medical School (2017)
  • 2019: Naveen Kamireddi B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S. Cell and Molecular Biology/Biotechnology (2008)
  • 2016: Jillian Foerster B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology (2009), Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics (2013)
  • 2014: David Diekema B.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology (2007), M.S. in Forensic Science (emphasis in DNA analysis) (2009)
  • 2012: Henry Haringsma B.S. Cell and Molecular Biology (2005)
  • 2010: Elizabeth Haak B.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology (2006)
  • 2008: Heather Fox B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & B.S. in English (1984)
  • 2018: James Snider B.S. Chemistry (1984), Ph.D. Chemistry (1990)
  • 2017: Brittland DeKorver B.A. Chemistry (2007), Ph.D. Chemistry (2016)
  • 2015: Jaime Curtis-Fisk B.S. in Chemistry (2004), Ph.D. in Chemistry (2009)
  • 2013: Paul Cook B.S. in Chemistry (2004)
  • 2011: Peter Stevens B.S. Chemistry (2001) 
  • 2009: Todd Davis B.S. in Chemistry (2000)
  • 2007: Shannon Biros B.A. in Chemistry & B.S. in Biomedical Science (2001)
  • 2004: Dana Spence B.S. in Chemistry (1992)
  • 2003: Kathy L. Rowlen B.S. in Chemistry (1984)
  • 2002: Gregory T. Grochoski B.S. in Chemistry (1968)
  • 2018: James Kennedy B.A. Classics (2009), J.D. Law (2013)
  • 2017: April Conant B.A. Classics (2009), B.A. History (2009), M.A. Library and Information Science (2013)
  • 2013: Charles "Ty" Ham B.A. in Classics (2006) 
  • 2011: Kim Hansen B.A. Classics (Honors College) (2008)
  • 2009: Brigette Frantz, Esq B.A. in Classical Tradition & English (2003)
  • 2007: Kristen Heise B.A. in Greek & B.A. in Latin (2005)
  • 2018: Erin Bartels B.A. English (2001)
  • 2017: David Jagusch B.A. English (2009), M.A. English Pedagogy (2012)
  • 2011: Liem Nguyen B.A. English & B.S. in Economics (1994)
  • 2010: Suzanne Rivecca B.A. in English (2001)
  • 2009: Sarah Hochstetler B.A. in English (2000)
  • 2008: Heather Fox B.S. in Biomedical Sciences & B.S. in English (1984)
  • 2007: D aniel Modderman B.A. in English Language & Literature (1997)
  • 2005: Margaret Willey B.A. in English and Art (1975)
  • 2023: Andrea Hendrick B.S. Geography and Sustainable Planning, GVSU (2016), Certificates in Sustainable Urban and Regional Planning and in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) 
  • 2019: Patrick Jurgens B.A. Geography (2007)
  • 2016: Amanda Moore B.S. in Geography (2012)
  • 2014: Steven Stepek B.S. in Geography (2002), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2006)
  • 2012: Andrew Moore B.S. Geography (2004)
  • 2010: Malinda VanSledright B.S. in Geography (2005)
  • 2008: Brian VanDenBrand B.S. in Geography & Planning (2006)
  • 2007: Neil Besteman B.S. in Geography (2005)
  • 2018: Adam Wygant B.S. Geology (1993)
  • 2017: Robert Bodziak B.S. Geology (1997), M.S. Geophysics (1999)
  • 2015: Andrew McCarthy B.S. in Geology (2000), Ph.D. in Geosciences (2007)
  • 2013: Molly (Helbing) Sherwood B.S. in Geology (1994)
  • 2011: Ronald Sheets B.S. Geology (1982)
  • 2007: Michael Gallagher B.S. in Geology (1983)
  • 2003: Gregg Swayze B.S. in Geology (1982)
  • 2001: Virginia Peterson B.S. in Geology (1980)
  • 2018: Eric Baumgarten B.A. History (2012)
  • 2017: Joshua Duram B.S. Group Social Studies/Education (2012)
  • 2015: Hillery York B.A. in History (2012), M.A. in Museum Studies (2014)
  • 2013: Hannah Rodgers B.A. in History & Anthropology (2009)
  • 2010: Bryan DeAugustine B.A. in History (1995)
  • 2023: Zachary Weber B.S. Mathematics, minor in History with a specialization in Secondary Education, GVSU (2012), M.S. Biostatistics, GVSU (2017), Ph.D. Epidemiology, Ohio State University (2021)
  • 2019: Elizabeth Stolz B.A. Mathematics (2014), M.S. Analytics
  • 2016: Samuel Otten B.S. in Mathematics (2006), Ph.D. in Mathematics Education (2012)
  • 2016: Paula "Paige" Kelley B.S. in Physics and Mathematics (2009), Ph.D. in Applied Physics (2015)
  • 2012: Wendy Kooiman Hahn B.S. Mathematics (2000)
  • 2010: Timothy Nelson B.S. in Mathematics (1976)
  • 2008: David Szurley B.S. in Mathematics (1997)
  • 2008: James Vander Weide B.S. in Mathematics & B.S. in Physics (1996)
  • 2007: Nicholas Ceglarek B.S. in Mathematics (1996)
  • 2007: Christopher Brooks B.S. in Physics & B.S. in Mathematics (2001)
  • 2005: Linda Joyce B.S. in Mathematics (1972) 
  • 2004: Jeffrey Terpstra B.S. in Mathematics/Statistics (1991)
  • 2003: Stephen Gryzan B.S. in Mathematics (1974) 
  • 2002: Tara Maynard B.S. in Mathematics (1997)
  • 2001: Laural Wierenga B.S. in Mathematics and Statistics (1993)
  • 2018: Joshua Lycka B.A. French (2013), B.S. Natural Resources Management (2013)
  • 2016: Anne Marie Carson B.A. in French and International Relations (2009), J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center (2014)
  • 2014: Katherine Pillsbury B.A. in Writing & Spanish (2012)
  • 2013: Lisa Rose Starner B.A. in Anthropology & French (2000), M.P.A. in Public Administration (2003)
  • 2012: Nicole Rasch B.A. Spanish (2001)
  • 2010: Sarah Pieper B.A. in French (2006)
  • 2018: Matthew Huml B.S. Physical Education, GVSU (2009), M.A. Education (2009), Ph.D. Sports Medicine (2016)
  • 2017: Nathan Schout B.S. Physical Education, GVSU (2011), M.Ed. Educational Leadership (2015)
  • 2015: Kenneth Games B.S. in Athletic Training (2009), Ph.D. in Kinesiology (2013)
  • 2013: Jordan R. Moon B.S. in Physical Education (2004)
  • 2009: Debra Moinet-St. Arnauld B.S. in Physical Education (1986)
  • 2007: Janet Wierenga B.S. in Physical Education (1976)
  • 2004: MaryFran Peterlin-Kolp B.S. in Physical Education (1990)
  • 2003: Steven J. Keteyian B.S. in Physical Education (1978)
  • 2002: John Harris III B.S. in Physical Education (1977)
  • 2001: L orin Cartwright B.S. in Physical Education/Athletic Training (1979)
  • 2018: Scott Jones B.A. Music (2000), D.M.A. Wind Conducting (2013)
  • 2017: Adam Cuthbert B.A. Music (2010)
  • 2015: Christine Amon B.M. in Vocal Performance (2009), M.M. in Vocal Performance (2012)
  • 2014: Paul Collins B.F.A. in Theatre Design & Production (1996), M.S. in Communications (2008), M.F.A. in Lighting & Scenic Design (2011)
  • 2013: Hunter Eberly B.M. in Music (2009)
  • 2011: Clinton Randles B.M.E. Music (2001)
  • 2010: Charles Wilkins B.S. in Theatre (2001)
  • 2009: Lucy Finkel B.M.E. in Music (2005)
  • 2007: Robert Gruca B.M. in Music (2000)
  • 2005: D.J. Hoek B.A .in Music (1993)
  • 2018: Katherine Mayberry B.A. Philosophy, GVSU (2000), M.F.A./MLitt (2007) 
  • 2017: Michael Brower B.S. Philosophy, GVSU (2007), B.S. Psychology, GVSU (2007), J.D. Law (2011)
  • 2015: Ashley Dressel B.A. in Philosophy (2008), Ph.D. in Philosophy (2014)
  • 2013: Craig Reynolds B.A. in Philosophy (1989)
  • 2011: Noel Boyle B.A. Philosophy & Group Social Sciences (1996)
  • 2009: John Sniadecki B.A. in Philosophy (2002)
  • 2007: Robert Kopperl B.A. in Anthropology & B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
  • 2007: Heather Allegrina-Bowe B.A. in Philosophy (1995)
  • 2023: Douglas Coleman B.S. Physics, minor in Mathematics, GVSU (2011), Doctorate of Medical Physics (DMP), Vanderbilt University 
  • 2019: Tracy Steinbach B.S. Physics (2010), M.S. Physics, Ph.D. Chemical Physics
  • 2016: Paula "Paige" Kelley B.S. in Physics and Mathematics (2009), Ph.D. in Applied Physics (2015)
  • 2014: Stephen Gardner B.S. in Physics (2009), M.S. in Medical Physics (2011)
  • 2012: Rhonda Graves Vickery B.S. Physics (1984)
  • 2010: Kenneth Bader B.S. in Physics (2005) 
  • 2008: James Vander Weide B.S. in Mathematics & B.S. in Physics (1996)
  • 2007: Christopher Brooks B.S. in Physics & B.S. in Mathematics (2001)
  • 2005: Paul Stoner B.S. in Physics (1971)
  • 2003: Susan M. Morford B.S. in Physics (1970), B.S.E. in Engineering (1992)
  • 2001: Amy Stone B.S. in Physics (1997)
  • 2018: Alan Dunklow B.A. Political Science (2007), J.D. Law (2013)
  • 2017: Timothy Zeeb B.A. International Relations (2002), M.S. Finance (2006)
  • 2016: Anne Marie Carson B.A. in French and International Relations (2009), J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center (2014)
  • 2015: Richard Damstra B.A. in Political Science (1996), J.D. (2001)
  • 2014: Aubrey McMahan B.A. in International Relations (2012)
  • 2012: Nerina Cevra B.A. International Relations (2001)
  • 2010: James Meernik B.A. in Political Science & Psychology (1985)
  • 2007: Robert Monaghan B.A. in Political Science (1967)
  • 2005: James R. Spaanstra B.S. in Political Science (1974) 
  • 2023: Kelsey (Evans) Augustyn B.S. Allied Health Science, GVSU (2014), Psy.S. School Psychology, GVSU (2017) 
  • 2023: Candace Cowling Masters of Social Work, GVSU (1995)
  • 2019: Ashley Nickels B.S. Psychology (2003), M.A. Public Administration (2006)
  • 2016: Ryan Shorey B.S. in Psychology (2008), Ph.D. in Psychology (2014)
  • 2014: Jennifer Haberling B.S. in Psychology (1991), B.A. in English (emphasis in Secondary Education) (1994), M.A. in Humanities (2005)
  • 2014: Jeffery Kieliszewski B.S. in Psychology (1991), M.A. in Clinical Psychology (1993), Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology (1998)
  • 2011: Katie Mawby B.S. Psychology & Physical Therapy (1987)
  • 2010: James Meernik B.A. in Political Science & Psychology (1985)
  • 2009: Amanda Dykema-Engblade B.S. in Psychology (1999)
  • 2007: Michelle Dennis B.S. in Psychology (1999)
  • 2023: Betty H. La France B.S. Journalism, GVSU (1994), Ph.D. Communication, Michigan State University (1998)  
  • 2023: John Zimmerman B.A. Telecommunications, Michigan State University, M.A. Communications, GVSU 
  • 2019: Marisa Kwiatkowski B.A. Journalism (2005)
  • 2016: Chad Ghastin B.S. in Advertising & Public Relations (1998), M.S. in Integrated Marketing (2006)
  • 2016: Michael Salisbury B.S. in Writing and Communications (2006), M.F.A. in Writing (2012)
  • 2012: Jeffery Brand B.A. Journalism (1986)
  • 2011: Brittany Hunter B.S. in Advertising & Public Relations (1998)
  • 2023: Heidi Reynolds-Stenson B.A. Sociology, GVSU (2008), Ph.D. Sociology, University of Arizona (2018)
  • 2019: Meghan Burke B.A. Sociology (2002), Ph.D. Sociology
  • 2016: Littisha Bates B.A. in Sociology (2004), Ph.D. in Sociology (2009)
  • 2012: Richard Manus B.S. Sociology (2008)
  • 2005: Joel Purkiss B.S. in Sociology (1995)
  • 2017: Justin Sjogren B.S. Statistics (2006), M.S. Biostatistics (2008)
  • 2014: Brandelyn Pitcher B.S. in Mathematics & Statistics (2008), M.S. in Biostatistics (2010)
  • 2014: Amanda (Peterson) Plunkett B.S. in Mathematics (1999), M.S. in Applied Mathematics (2001), M.S. in Statistics (2011) 
  • 2007: Monica (Simon) Boyd B.S. in Statistics (1999)
  • 2007: Sheila Pomeroy B.S. in Statistics (1999)
  • 2004: Jeffrey Terpstra B.S. in Mathematics/Statistics (1991)
  • 2002: Angela Fought B.S. in Statistics (1997)
  • 2001: Laural Wierenga B.S. in Mathematics and Statistics (1993)
  • 2023: Jesse Gregg B.F.A., Illustration, GVSU, M.F.A., Experimental Animation, California Institute of the Arts 
  • 2019: Tricia Erickson B.A. Art (2005), M.Ed. Art Education
  • 2015: Paul Amenta B.F.A. in Sculpture and Printmaking (1995), M.F.A. in Fine Arts (2000)
  • 2013: David Huang B.F.A. in Studio Art (2001)
  • 2011: Jennifer Schaub B.F.A. Studio Art (2002), M.P.A. Public Administration (2007)
  • 2009: Julie Upmeyer B.F.A. in Studio Art (2003) 
  • 2008: Angela Mistretta B.A. in Film & Video Production (2002)
  • 2007: Jo Hormuth B.F.A. in Art (1981)
  • 2007: Jeffery Donehoo B.S. in Film & Video (2001)
  • 2005: James M. McClurken B.S. in Arts & Media/Social Relations (1978)
  • 2023: Allie Oosta B.A./Writing GVSU (2011), M.B.A., University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business (2021)
  • 2019: Lindsey Drager B.A. Writing & English Language and Literature, GVSU (2008), M.F.A. Creative Writing, Ph.D. Creative Writing
  • 2016: Michael Salisbury B.S. in Writing and Communications (2006), M.F.A. in Writing (2012)
  • 2014: Thomas Gunnels B.A. in Writing (2012)
  • 2012: T. Fleischmann B.A. Writing (2005)

These majors are no longer housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences:

  • 2003: Michael E. Baumuller B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1993)
  • 2002: James E. Dunleavy B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1997)
  • 2002: John Gawkowski B.S. in Computer Science (1985)
  • 2002: Sean Seaver B.S.E. in Engineering (1988)
  • 2001: Jonathan Engelsma B.S. in Computer Science (1987)
  • 2001: David Yakes B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management (1991)


Page last modified November 20, 2025