Omni from GVSU expands with programming from Starr Commonwealth

Omni from Grand Valley is continuing its mission to help Michiganders further their careers by expanding course offerings and training in trauma-informed care through a partnership with Starr Commonwealth, a leader in transformational programs and services for children and families.

Leaders from both institutions signed an agreement August 12 at GVSU's DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health.

Programming will be available through Omni, the university's regional network of organizations and community colleges that bring a Grand Valley education to learners wherever they live. Initially, an on-demand course, "Children of Trauma and Resilience," taught by a Starr Commonwealth clinician will be available with more Starr Commonwealth programs to follow.

President Philomena V. Mantella said, “Omni is built to bring skill training and education to people where they are, and this new partnership will allow individuals who work with children to better serve Michigan’s kids and help them thrive."

Starr Commonwealth, founded in 1913, has a long history of developing and delivering trauma-informed and resilience-focused programs, according to its president, Elizabeth Carey.

"We are honored to join forces with GVSU’s Omni network to extend our reach and impact," Carey said. "Together, we can equip more adults and systems of care with the tools to foster resilience and healing in children who have experienced trauma. This initiative aligns with our theory of change, which has a growing evidence base to support that when trauma-informed and resilience-focused adults work within trauma-informed and resilience-focused systems, the health and well-being of children will improve."

Kara Van Dam, chief executive for Omni, said she was inspired to partner with Starr Commonwealth because its instructors and clinicians "help children have a good start by helping them heal from a traumatic one."

"We're so pleased to partner with Starr Commonwealth on relevant programming that will help social workers and professionals who work with youth advance their careers," Van Dam said. "We also support Starr because they see that the entire ecosystem of children — parents, caregivers, teachers, first responders and more — has to be engaged in trauma-informed practice to ensure these positive outcomes."

Joe Stewart, Battle Creek area business leader, has served on GVSU's Board of Trustees and has also been a longtime supporter of Starr Commonwealth. Stewart gave remarks at the event, calling it a terrific strategic partnership.

"We are not only enhancing educational opportunities but ensuring that our communities’ professionals and organizational leaders are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to support and heal children affected by trauma," Stewart said.

Learn more online about the Children of Trauma and Resilience course, applicable to social workers and educators for continuing education hours.

Omni from GVSU offers multiple pathways — certificate, badge and degree programs — to meet the needs of adult learners.