GVSU selects Behler as next vice president

President Philomena V. Mantella has appointed long-time Meijer, Inc. executive Stacie R. Behler as the university’s new vice president and chief public affairs and communications officer and secretary to the Board of Trustees. The selection comes following last week’s announcement that Matthew E. McLogan will retire effective June 30.

Behler, an attorney, is currently the group vice president of Public Affairs and Communication at Meijer. She began with the retail company as senior legal counsel in 2001 and over the next two decades was given increasing responsibility and leadership roles in human resources, communications, community engagement and government affairs. Behler was also named the executive director of the Meijer Foundation, providing counsel to the Meijer family in their philanthropic investments and giving.

She is a leader within the community, currently chairing the Economic Club of Grand Rapids and has chaired other community organizations’ boards, such as the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Heart of West Michigan United Way and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.

Mantella said Behler’s professional background, along with her deep community involvement, will be tremendous assets to GVSU’s ambitious goals and vision.

“I have known and admired Stacie since coming to Grand Valley and seeing the impact she has in the region,” Mantella said. “She brings the kind of experience we need to fill this role, which includes government relations, communications and marketing. Stacie has a good legal mind, solid and varied experience with an enormously successful retail company, and the dedication and relationships to carry our successful community and business relationships forward, while also creating new ones. She’s the right person for the aspirations and visions we have for this great university. I’m thrilled she’s coming on board.”

Behler said as a result of her professional community roles and work, she has become an advocate for education at all levels. She said she is looking forward to joining the senior leadership team at Grand Valley because of the amazing legacy of the university and the tremendous momentum it is generating.

“After two incredible decades at Meijer, I am excited to transition my leadership into higher education at such a critical time for students, families and our community,” Behler said. “Grand Valley State University needs to be at the front of the conversation about the future of education, and I am honored to be part of the team that will lead that work and continue to drive innovation and vision. GVSU is rooted in community and private and public partnerships that help Michigan and students thrive. These hallmarks align with my personal values and make GVSU the place for me.”

Behler received her Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois and her Bachelor of Arts from Oakland University. She will begin her new role at the university July 1, leading the division that includes government relations, Institutional Marketing, University Communications and WGVU Television and Radio.