New living, learning house focuses on women's leadership

Topics central to a woman’s leadership development is the focus of a new academic living and learning community at Grand Valley State University.

The Women’s Leadership House, located in the VanSteeland Living Center, is the result of a continuing collaboration between Grand Valley’s Women’s Center and Women and Gender Studies Program. It will provide leadership and developmental opportunities for students who have a common interest in women and gender studies and social justice.

Nearly 30 students from different years and majors at Grand Valley celebrated their new home for the academic year during an orientation session August 21 at the Women’s Center.

Jo Ann Wassenaar, associate director of the Women’s Center, said one goal of the new community is to help students feel more connected to the university through a peer mentorship program and engagement in community service.

Julia Mason, assistant professor of women and gender studies and faculty director for the house, said programs and events for students living in the house will focus on fostering civic engagement, cultural awareness, leadership principles and skill development. “We’re so excited to see how the house takes shape during its first year,” she said. “The program will grow and develop based on what students are interested in.”

The Women’s Leadership House joins other learning and living communities at Grand Valley, including the Women In Science and Engineering Program (WISE), Art House, Honors College, International House and Movement Science House.