President Mantella encourages Laker family to bring light to the world

President Philomena V. Mantella recorded a video message from her home March 29, to encourage the Grand Valley community to stay safe and healthy as everyone works through the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I hope you are all safe and together-apart, as we work our way through this national crisis and global pandemic," she said.

Mantella said it's a challenging time for everyone, and she looks forward to having everyone back on campus.

"We will be together soon, but we need to do our part and we need to stay positive. We need to bring a light to the world as Lakers. That's the Laker Effect and that's GVSU positivity," she said.

Members of the student a capella group, Euphoria, said they decided to be a part of Mantella's effort to spread messages of positivity. The group got creative in their virtual video as they sang "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers.

Group member Joe Vanarendonk said it was difficult for students, especially seniors, when the semester was abruptly cut short. "Physical distance doesn't keep us from being connected," he said. 

Vanarendonk said the Grand Valley community is "one you can lean on."

Faculty, students, staff and alumni are encouraged to record a 30-second video and share it on social media. Include #GVPositivity or email it to [email protected].