As another academic year draws to a close, we prepare to celebrate the achievements of our graduates, thousands of Lakers who will soon cross the stage, degrees in hand, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities, along with those who will continue their education in the fall. Getting to this point is a testament to hard work, resilience and curiosity, and we could not be prouder of all that our learners have accomplished.

At the heart of this success is the unwavering dedication and commitment of our faculty and staff. Every day, in classrooms, labs, studios and the broader community, our faculty and staff inspire, mentor and fuel a love of learning and a deep sense of community in our students. Their dedication to excellence and their ability to connect with students on a personal level define the GVSU experience. When I speak with alumni, they consistently share stories of faculty and staff members whose encouragement and guidance changed the trajectory of their life. The people of GVSU are acknowledged for building meaningful relationships, fostering curiosity and ensuring that every learner has the support they need to not just get by but to thrive. This impact extends far beyond coursework as we instill confidence, cultivate leadership and prepare students to navigate an ever-changing world.

In this magazine, we highlight an engaging story about faculty members who creatively design their office spaces to reflect their unique personalities and create connections with students. Additionally, I invite you to listen to our new monthly podcast, GV Faculty Focus, where I sit down with faculty members to explore their work and the innovative ways they engage and uplift students. You can find it on all major podcast platforms, with new episodes released each month.

GV Faculty Focus Links to all podcasts found at gvsu.edu/president.