Inspired and Inspiring
No matter what subject, every Grand Valley faculty member has one thing in common: they love to teach. Having an average class size of 26 students means an even more personal, interactive, and rewarding classroom experience for you. And because a faculty member teaches most classes, you'll get even more opportunities for on-on-one interaction and instruction. That's how we define first-rate faculty. And the Laker Effect.
Always Teaching and Always Learning
1st
REGIONALLY FOR FACULTY MEMBERS WHO ARE FULBRIGHT SCHOLARS
93%
FACULTY MEMBERS WITH DOCTORAL OR TERMINAL DEGREES
"What I love about teaching is learning. That is what makes it addictive. I see my students as professionals in development but also huge sources of wisdom."
Melba Vélez Ortiz, Ph.D.
Professor // Communications
Grand Valley's faculty members are accomplished scholars who offer the kind of expertise that will distinguish your learning experience.
What sets them apart is how much they love to teach. They are here for you.
That kind of commitment means they'll focus on your individual needs, empower you, and guide you through the kind of research experience only available to graduate students at other universities.
GVSU professor Melba Vélez Ortiz is known for her unique teaching style and engagement with her students.
Most of all, faculty members are mentors and advisors that inspire your passion for learning and self-discovery in the classroom and out. As a result, it's not unusual for students to be greeted by name by their professors — years after taking a class.
Unlocking Your Potential
“Having students walk away with that confidence in the variety of skills that they have learned here, and to look back at their time at Grand Valley and have those great feelings about what happened, that’s an amazing thing.”
Alli Metz
Professor // Theatre Education
Our professors put you at the center of your education. They recognize your potential and nurture your talents as you grow into a well-rounded professional.
We often refer to them as faculty mentors, not members, for this reason. They want see you thrive. This unique relationship is the special sauce that makes the Grand Valley experience special and we can't wait for you to experience it for yourself.
Theatre professor Alli Metz is passionate about teaching and strives to be an integral part of the growth of her students and their academic experience at GVSU.
Caring and Connected
500+
COMPANIES RECRUIT ON CAMPUS
7,000+
STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN SOME FORM OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
25%
OF STUDENTS CONDUCT RESEARCH WITH FACULTY MEMBERS
"The entire research process has not just taught me how science works, but how I work as a scientist."
Noah Holkeboer // Class of 2023
Double Major // Biology and Cell and Molecular Biology
Because our faculty members are actively engaged in their disciplines, contributing to the growth in their fields and staying current in their professions, you learn the most up-to-date information and techniques in class and make connections with experts, leaders, and potential employers outside the classroom.
They network with 500+ local and national companies, providing internship and career opportunities. It's a highly personal experience that will challenge you academically and reward your hard work by preparing you to make a positive impact on the world after you graduate.
Working with professor Gary Greer, Noah Holkeboer has developed a digital photography-based method of measurement and growth for aging trees that doesn't require cutting them down. Watch his presentation about this method.