Articles by Matthew Makowski

Library exhibit uplifts new students

The transition to a new academic year can be stressful for students, especially new students. The staff of University Libraries hopes to alleviate some of that stress with the LIFT Exhibit, currently on display in the exhibition space on the atrium level of Mary Idema Pew Library.

Sep 13, 2018


Acclaimed authors to discuss their craft during annual Writers Series

The Grand Valley Writers Series has a long history of enlisting distinguished and emerging writers to visit the campuses of Grand Valley State University to read from their work for the community, visit classes to interact with students and discuss their career paths. This year's Writers Series will feature eight acclaimed authors, two of which are Grand Valley faculty members, during multiple events between September 17, 2018 and April 9, 2019.

Sep 12, 2018


Army veteran behind ArtPrize entry to discuss journey from soldier to artist

After retiring from the United States Army in 2015 following 17 years of service, Kimberly Walker began searching for her purpose as an artist, which she eventually found in the form of sharing stories of sexual assault in the military through art. During this year's 10th anniversary of ArtPrize, Walker's piece, "Locked and Loaded," will be the sole entry located at the Eberhard Center. Walker will discuss her ArtPrize entry, as well as her journey from soldier to artist, during a special presentation on September 20.

Sep 11, 2018


Fall Arts Celebration concert to take audience on musical tour of Italy

Inspired by numerous enjoyable escapes from harsh Russian winters, composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's love of Italy is reflected in his "String Sextet in D Minor, Op. 70 'Souvenir de Florence.'" This musical tour of Italy will be performed by the internationally acclaimed Tesla Quartet and Grand Valley State University music faculty members during this year's Fall Arts Celebration. "An Italian Journey: Tesla Quartet performs Tchaikovsky's 'Souvenir de Florence'" will take place September 17.

Sep 10, 2018


Fall Arts Celebration art exhibit explores the mysteries of Mars

Throughout the years, Mars has been depicted in multiple forms as societies around the world have gazed at the Red Planet. During this year's Fall Arts Celebration, the "Mars: Astronomy and Culture" exhibit will bring together 140 photographs, drawings, movie posters, book covers and more spotlighting Mars. A special reception for the exhibit, which will include a virtual reality simulator, will take place September 13.

Sep 6, 2018


Laker Marching Band finds new "Voice" in GVSU alumnus

Joel Paauwe, '15, has been named the new "Voice of the Laker Marching Band." The "Voice" announces for the marching band during pregame and halftime shows at all home football games, exhibition shows, select away games, and the annual Laker Marching Band Bandorama concert.

Sep 5, 2018


Arts at Noon to feature international musicians, GVSU faculty

The Arts at Noon concert series at Grand Valley will kick off a new season this fall featuring multiple free performances by renowned musicians from around the world. The series will feature seven concerts this fall, beginning September 12 with the Mirror Visions Ensemble, followed by seven winter performances beginning in January.

Sep 4, 2018


Professor named a top mathematics educator in the U.S.

David Clark, assistant professor of mathematics, was one of three educators to receive the Henry L. Alder Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Beginning College or University Mathematics Faculty Member during a special ceremony on August 3 at the Mathematics Association of America's annual MathFest conference in Denver, Colorado. The award honors newer college or university faculty whose teaching has been successful and whose effectiveness in teaching undergraduate math has created an impact on students beyond the classroom

Aug 15, 2018


Concerts planned to spotlight String Leadership Camp students, GVSU faculty

More than 35 local high school students with experience playing string instruments will visit Grand Valley for the opportunity to learn from and perform with faculty and industry professionals during the third annual String Leadership Camp. The camp will take place August 13-15 on the Allendale Campus. A series of four recitals, which are all free and open to the public, will take place in conjunction with the camp.

Aug 9, 2018


24th Summer Film explores struggles of a teenager growing up during the Great Depression

Wes is a shy, sensitive 12-year-old boy growing up poor during the Great Depression. Plagued by bullies, Wes' response to violence has always been to run away. But, when his family's well-being is at stake, Wes can't run anymore. This is the plot of the 24th annual Summer Film Project, "Down by the River," which wrapped production on July 22. Every year, the Summer Film Project provides students with the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals while producing films of varying lengths.

Jul 30, 2018