Victor and Rosy Dominguez

When asked to describe their son’s Grand Valley State University experience in one word, Victor and Rosy Dominguez in unison replied,“remarkable”. Gabriel Dominguez ‘11 has had quite the journey. As a Frederik Meijer Honors College graduate and Biomedical Sciences major, Gabriel worked hard to receive the diploma that would bring him not only academic success, but a newfound sense of self-assurance and higher purpose.

“Grand Valley has given our son Gabriel ‘shape’, when before he was just marble,” his father Victor said. “He found his voice and developed an importance in the Grand Rapids community.” In Gabriel’s spare time, he coaches soccer to 10-year-olds and tutors high school students in genetics and chemistry.

Gabriel has also benefitted from the liberal education foundation that Grand Valley provides. “The university was able to reinforce all of the values he possessed as well as building an interest in music, history, and sports. He developed a very intelligent background through Grand Valley, discussing topics at a level I learned in medical school. He has become a grounded, well-rounded individual through his years,” Victor said.

Rosy couldn’t be more thankful for the help of Grand Valley advising, who guided her son down the right path. “The advising was so personalized. They saw the person, not some number.” Gabriel’s hard work is already paying off; he has been accepted to two medical schools and currently finalizing plans for the fall.

Rosy believes that the success of Grand Valley goes back to the faculty and staff that invest in students, who in turn invest in the future.The Dominguez family makes gifts to the Grand Valley Fund, the unrestricted private fund for academic programs and student services. “We are extremely proud to be a part of Grand Valley and we give to this university because it’s our responsibility to help the generations ahead of us.”

Victor takes time to speak with other students, encouraging them to study and work towards a college education. “The biggest factor in a student’s success is their own ability to dream. Giving back allows kids to prosper in their dreams and we want to help make their dreams come true.”