President Mantella tells Rotary education is a lifetime value

President Philomena V. Mantella told members of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids that universities have an obligation to go beyond providing a first job for students, saying education provides a lifetime value.

In her first speech to a community group as Grand Valley's president, Mantella addressed a group of about 100 Rotary members July 25 at the University Club in downtown Grand Rapids, emphasizing the opportunities that lie ahead for the university.

"We must equip students so they keep learning and growing," Mantella said. "We will always have the 18- to 22-year-old students who are ready to come to Grand Valley's extraordinary campuses, put their life into education and experience it all. We need to increase access for other types of students. We must grow as a resource for non-traditional students who want to reskill, upskill or study new areas." 

She cited online digital learning as a plus-factor for Grand Valley to allow more people to access the university's resources.

Mantella shared that she is a first-generation student with parents who stressed the importance of education to her and her siblings. She began her career in social work with the mission of creating more opportunities for young people. 

"I discovered that I was also interested in the business of universities and how they influence not only individuals, but also systems, cities and states," she said.  

Mantella said Grand Valley has a wonderful base to build on and expand to meet the changing landscape of education. She said she is spending time listening to the faculty, staff and members of the community who are involved with Grand Valley to create a shared vision moving forward.