Grand Valley and one of its faculty members were recognized for sustainability efforts by the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) at its annual meeting on December 15.
Grand Valley was named Business of the Year, and Crystal Scott-Tunstall, an affiliate professor of environmental and sustainability studies, was honored as WMEAC's Educator of the Year.
Scott-Tunstall said this honor is deeply touching since it comes from her colleagues in the community.
"In the work of environmental sustainability, I strive to help the planet through coaching my students, who are the Earth’s future stewards," she said. "To continuously build a strong bridge between GVSU and the community is my priority. Community engagement is not my hobby, it is my lifestyle."
Chris Plouff, interim provost and executive vice president for Academic and Student Affairs, was in attendance at the event to accept the Business Partner of the Year award on behalf of the university.
"We truly appreciate the strong partnership we have with WMEAC and are honored to be recognized by them for our work together," said Plouff. "Together we are able to elevate sustainable practices and environmentally conscious work within the West Michigan community."
The Business of the Year award is given to a WMEAC partner or sponsor that helps elevate the work of the organization. Elaine Isely, deputy director of WMEAC, said GVSU has been an ally of the organization for over a decade.
Grand Valley has numerous partnerships with WMEAC through several academic units, including the Annis Water Resources Institute, Office of Sustainability Practices, Seidman College of Business, the Department of Biology and the Department of Visual & Media Arts.
