Scholarship announced in Chamberlain's honor

Departing Frederik Meijer Honors College director Jeff Chamberlain was surprised May 23 when a new scholarship was announced in his honor at a reception celebrating his career at the university.

Chamberlain said he was humbled by the announcement of the new Jeff Chamberlain Frederik Meijer Honors College Alumni Endowed Scholarship, and told the crowd that a scholarship was the perfect way to celebrate his work.

At the reception, recollections of Chamberlain's close relationships with his students and their families were shared by former students and current faculty members, and Provost Gayle Davis said Chamberlain's work enhanced the reputation of the Honors College and "made Grand Valley a better university for those very special students."

Anne Hiskes, dean of the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies, shared several memories of instances where Chamberlain worked closely with students to help them reach a goal or achieve a milestone, and said that his success at Grand Valley was tied into his personal investment in the success of his students.

"Jeff's leadership as I have known it is caring and gentle, that of a true servant leader who seeks to empower others, students, faculty and staff, in realizing their potential," Hiskes said. "Thanks, Jeff, for all you have done in building and strengthening a truly distinguished honors program in your 10 years here. Thank you for all you have done for your students and for being an example of a servant leader."

Chamberlain said the announcement of the scholarship in his honor was overwhelming.

"It is very deeply meaningful; this is absolutely the most wonderful thing you could do, so thank you very, very much," Chamberlain said. 

Chamberlain said that when he started in the Honors College 10 years ago, there was some uncertainty about how the transition from his old institution, a very small school, to the Honors College at Grand Valley would work. He said that moving the Honors College in a positive direction was easier than he thought because he found willing colleagues in units and departments across the university. 

"Every last person I have worked with has been wonderful to deal with, has been a pleasure, has been collaborative, creative and absolutely committed to the students and the university," Chamberlain said. "I am incredibly grateful for the work that all of you have put in and all of the ways in which you have contributed, both to Grand Valley and to our students, and helping me learn so much in the process."

Chamberlain will assume the role of dean of the Hicks Honors College at the University of Northern Florida. His last day at Grand Valley will be July 25.