One of the highlights for me every year is the opportunity to honor
and celebrate our long-standing employees through the annual service
awards and this year is no exception. As we get ready for the final
weeks of an academic year that has seen continued success and capacity
building, our proactive approach to growth is built upon our
foundational excellence and that foundational excellence is built upon
our longtime faculty and staff. For decades, your passion, your
support of your colleagues and your persistence to overcome obstacles
have been the cornerstone of our success.
Growth has been part of our DNA since GVSU was founded more than 60
years ago and has been a constant through the years. Even as we’ve
gotten bigger, you’ve remained steadfast in your resolve to focus on
teaching and learning and to be relational and holistic in the service
of our students. Your commitment to our learners and one another has
always been built on the loyalty, longevity and belief in continual
learning that you bring to campus every day.
The investment of your time, talents and knowledge has paid off for
the thousands of students you’ve touched and the generational impact
that has been made on their families and their communities. Our
collective work makes a difference today and sets a path to a brighter
tomorrow. We thank you for all you’ve done and look forward with
optimism and determination as we build the Michigan of the future.
Opportunities to participate in Juneteenth, Pride Month and the Black Boys and Men Symposium strengthen our commitment to an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere through our active efforts to create a sense of belonging.