Civic Engagement is “working to make a positive difference in the life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. Additionally, civic engagement encompasses actions wherein individuals participate in activities of personal and public concern that are both individually life enriching and socially beneficial to the community.” (adapted from Thomas Ehrlich, 2000)

The GVSU Office of Student Life values a cross-institutional, interdisciplinary approach to civic engagement. As a member of the GVSU Civic Engagement Collective, the Office of Student Life: Civic Engagement partners in the advancement of civic engagement and democratic learning across the University. Specifically, the Office of Student Life Civic Engagement team seeks to elevate co-curricular community engagement by creating strategic, intentional engagement programming and partnerships with key GVSU and community partners. Civic Engagement works in close collaboration with two specific strategic partners in this work on campus, in order to provide students, faculty and staff, and community partners with a holistic, cohesive approach to community engagement.