GVSU receives Gold Status for seventh consecutive year from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency

Grand Valley has again achieved Gold Status, the highest ranking from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) in its annual ranking of veteran-friendly schools.

Gold Status is awarded to higher education institutions that provide an inclusive and supportive environment for military-connected students. GVSU has earned Gold Status each year since 2015.

Mathias Mapes-Pearson, president of Laker Vets, is one of about 400 student veterans attending Grand Valley. Mapes-Pearson is a senior majoring in management information systems. He served as a sergeant in the Marines from 2013-2018 where he was stationed in the U.S. and across the globe, including Africa, the Ukraine, Spain and Afghanistan.

“Grand Valley is a big proponent for student veterans,” said Mapes-Pearson. “The many resources and programs offered help student veterans make that crucial transition from military life to civilian life. And, it’s pretty unique to have a leader like President Philomena V. Mantella consistently take the time to meet with us to find out what resources we need.”

Grand Valley is committed to helping service members and their families successfully transition from military service to graduation and beyond with several programs and initiatives. 

• The GVSU Veteran Promise: GVSU is the first university in the country to guarantee enrollment to high school seniors who serve. 
• Michigan Veteran Entrepreneurship-Lab: Gives veterans and military families the skills, knowledge and opportunities they need to develop and launch a business.
• Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Program: Expands student support and programming and provides career support, including the transition from military to civilian careers.
• Two dedicated veterans' lounges: The Laker Military Resource Center is located on the Allendale Campus and a second meeting space is located on the Health Campus in downtown Grand Rapids.
• LEADS for Vets accelerated bachelor’s program: A fast-paced, online program designed specifically for career veterans who are looking to jump-start their second careers.
• PAVE Peer Mentoring Program: Each “new” veteran is assigned an established student veteran who serves as an advisor and a listening ear. 

Grand Valley consistently receives national recognition for its commitment to veterans. 

In U.S. News & World Report's 2021 Best Colleges rankings, Grand Valley is listed as a Best for Veterans among Midwest universities. GVSU was also named a 2021-22 Military Friendly School; the Military Friendly® ranking recognizes higher education institutions that provide the best opportunities for veterans and their spouses.

Learn more about the many ways Grand Valley supports veterans at https://www.gvsu.edu/veterans