Liberal studies major earns Outstanding Adult Learner recognition

A student in Grand Valley's Liberal Studies Leadership program was named Outstanding Adult Learner by an area consortium of colleges and universities.

Todd Talsma received the honor from the Grand Rapids Area Higher Education Network during a ceremony April 20 at Grand Rapids Community College. 

Kate VanDerKolk, student services coordinator at the Meijer Campus in Holland, nominated Talsma for the award. VanDerKolk said she admired Talsma's energy and willingness to approach new challenges with a positive attitude.

"A large strength that Todd has is the ability to see the big picture. He takes what he learns and applies it to his job and the community," she said.

Talsma works for Michigan Office Solutions and said he joined the leadership cohort in Holland to finish his degree in a field other than computer science. 

"Leadership really fit with where I was in my career," he said. "I had more immediate opportunities stepping into a leadership role than I would have had if I had continued down the computer science path."

Since beginning the program, Talsma has been promoted at MOS to parts and supplies supervisor. He will graduate next year.

The GRAHEN is composed of 11 area institutions that offer degree programs for adults.