Grand Valley leaders announced a record conclusion to the Laker Effect campaign, which raised $130 million for students, the most successful campaign in the university’s history.
The announcement was made June 2 by President Philomena V. Mantella and Grand Valley University Foundation co-chairs Jim and Donna Brooks.
Mantella thanked the 35,000 donors, also a record number, who contributed to the campaign.
“Grand Valley has a very solid financial base, which has allowed us to provide the support our students need, while accelerating a course for the urgent and transformative changes ahead in higher education," Mantella said. "We have our donors to thank for much of our financial foundation.”
Donors included alumni, community members, faculty and staff members, students and their families.
Jim Brooks said funds raised during the Laker Effect campaign have already increased scholarships, expanded the university’s academic programs and facilities like the Health Campus near Grand Rapids' Medical Mile, and increased support programs for students.
“As the largest institution of higher learning in West Michigan, Grand Valley has the responsibility to help our communities adapt," Brooks said. "We have seen the university rise to the challenge so far, and we are confident communities will continue to do that with our help.”
Karen Loth, vice president for University Development, thanked the GVU Foundation leadership of co-chairs Jim and Donna Brooks and vice-chairs Dan and Pamella DeVos. Loth said donors’ generous gifts have contributed to increasing the talent pool of graduates.
“Thanks to donors, the funds raised during this campaign are hard at work helping students and building the talent for our communities, our state and our nation," Loth said.
More information about the Laker Effect Campaign is online at gvsu.edu/giving.
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