GVSU Education Programs News
Celebrating Women Awards recognizes two Education staff
March 29, 2019
Two College of Education staff members received awards on March 27, 2019 for their service to the GVSU community. The Women's Commission (in conjunction with The Gayle R. Davis Center for Women & Gender Equity, Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and Positive Black Women) annually recognizes individuals from the Grand Valley State University community who have made an impact in the lives of women at GVSU and are champions for inclusion. This year, the Celebrating Women Awards recognized Amanda Syers and Bonnie Peterson.
Amanda Syers received the 2019 Emerging Professional Award. Syers works as a part-time project assistant for the College of Education's Center for Educational Partnerships. She serves as the advocacy co-chair on the Women’s Commission, and led the Family Friendly Task-force at GVSU that examined parenting experiences of GVSU personnel and students. Under Syers leadership, the Family Friendly Task-force advocates for affordable on-campus infant and child care options, and negotiates for family benefits and accommodations across GVSU’s campuses. In collaboration with Human Resources and Facilities at GVSU, the Task-force created a list of infant changing locations across GVSU campuses and ensures that nursing spaces are accessible and comfortable. Syers also contributed in writing the Family Leave Policy Recommendations by researching policy at similar Michigan institutions. Her advocacy for building an inclusive, family-friendly campus has improved the campus environment for faculty, staff, and students throughout GVSU.
Bonnie Peterson was presented with the 2019 Unsung Hero Award. Peterson, who works as the office coordinator for TRIO Upward Bound, is a co-founder of the Grand Rapids Grand Valley Mom’s Network. In 2016, Peterson coordinated with Human Resources and the College of Education to create a space for on-campus moms to network. This monthly meeting has expanded over the last 3 years to provide support, strategies, and advocacy for caregivers throughout GVSU. Peterson also co-chairs the PSS (Professional Support Staff) Development Committee at GVSU. In this role, she plans and coordinates professional development opportunities for PSS staff and collaborates annually with Human Resources to plan the PSS Appreciation Luncheon. Peterson successfully advocated for including temporary PSS employees in the appreciation luncheon, and she serves as a mentor and resource guide to many co-workers and students.
Article photo shows (left to right) Bonnie Peterson, Amanda Syers, and Dean Sherril Soman of the College of Education at the Celebrating Women Awards.
Article written by Alex Jacobsson. For more information on this story, contact the Office of Certification and Accreditation - (616) 331-6650.