Horizons Summer 2023
Click photos for full stories and galleries.
STUDENT IMPACT
[1686922887].jpg)
LEARNING HOW TO LEAD
True leadership skills are often hard to learn. At Grand Valley, students are given the opportunity to learn how to be a leader from a unique program within the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.
The Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy (CLA) instills leadership excellence in a select group of GVSU students. The program is co-curricular and cross-disciplinary, offering student fellows unmatched opportunities for reflection, engagement, and learning.
WHY WE GIVE
[1686847340].jpg)
IGNITING THE FUTURE
Christina and Andy Keller received the Leadership Award at the 2023 GVU Foundation Enrichment Dinner. As third-generation supporters of Grand Valley, the Kellers were among the first donors to help develop West Michigan's tech talent pipeline through the Laker Accelerated Talent Link. Christina and Andy are fully engaged in the future of our region and our state. Grand Valley and West Michigan will flourish under their leadership as the university moves toward what comes next.
[1686847460].jpg)
GRAND STEWARDS OF GRAND VALLEY
At the 2023 GVU Foundation Enrichment Dinner, John and Nancy Kennedy were honored with the Grand Stewards Award in recognition of their leadership, service, and financial support for Grand Valley at the highest level. John and Nancy have been actively involved in developing GVSU's engineering program since their twenties, and John is an honorary life member of the GVSU Board of Trustees. Their numerous contributions to the university and West Michigan impact countless students, and they encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
FUND SPOTLIGHT
[1686847834].jpg)
SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
Lakers are leaders. Whether it be in or out of the classroom, Grand Valley challenges every student to practice leadership skills. The Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy (CLA) instills leadership excellence in more than 65 high-achieving students who are actively involved in the campus community, dedicated to the public good, and demonstrate a passion to lead. Your gift supports leadership studies, programming, and other opportunities that will develop the next generation of Laker leaders.
NEW ENDOWMENTS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND GILLETT SOCIETY MEMBERS
Thank you to the donors who established new endowments and scholarships and to the new Gillett Society members who have included Grand Valley in their estate plans. You are empowering learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. Because of your gifts, Grand Valley's impact on our community continues to grow.
EVENTS
[1686848017].jpg)
2023 ENRICHMENT DINNER
On June 13, we gathered to ignite the future of Grand Valley! The Enrichment Dinner celebrated all of the visionaries in our community who are guiding us forward, with special recognition to awardees John and Nancy Kennedy and Christina and Andy Keller.
[1686847985].jpg)
SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION
March 29 was a time for scholarship donors to connect with the students impacted by their generosity. It was an opportunity to see firsthand how scholarships are helping students grow during their time at Grand Valley.
