Presidents' Ball award winners celebrate in style

More than 2,000 students, faculty and staff enjoyed an "An Evening of Enchantment" as they celebrated the 2024 Presidents’ Ball.  The event at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids was co-sponsored by the Campus Activities Board, Office of Student Life, and the Student Senate and is one of GVSU’s longest-standing traditions.

The Presidents' Ball began with the presentation of several awards:

• The Presidential Appreciation Award: Presented by GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella and Student Senate President Quinten Proctor, this award was given to Michelle Rhodes, associate vice president for financial aid.  Rhodes was acknowledged for being a champion for students and her staff and launching several efforts to support students, including leading the development of Money Smart Lakers to provide students with the tools and resources needed to understand and manage personal finances. 

Other awards given during the event were:

• Student Award for Faculty Excellence: Peter Riemersma, associate professor of geology
• Laker of the Year Award (Student): Minnat-Allah Abdel-Moemen
• Laker of the Year Award (Staff): Andy Beachnau, assistant vice president For student affairs 

Next year’s Presidents’ Ball has been set for January 31, 2025. Photo galleries from the event are available on the Presidents' Ball website.