Concerned about the wellbeing of a student?
The Dean of Students Emergency Fund helps students facing small one-time financial hardships.
Mission
We inspire and support learning for all Lakers.
Vision
To be a national leader in innovative and inclusive student affairs practice — where students and staff thrive, teams lead with heart, and impact lasts a lifetime.
Guiding Principles
Well-being
We promote holistic wellness and supportive systems that uplift our community.
Equity, Belonging, and Accessibility
We cultivate inclusive environments where all people are seen, heard, and empowered.
Community of Care
We nurture a culture of empathy, respect, and connection where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued.
Accountability
We act with integrity, transparency, and responsibility, guided by our principles and informed by data.
Relationships
We foster open communication and authentic partnerships to break down barriers and reach shared goals.
Engagement
We enrich student life through dynamic, hands-on experiences that spark reflection, growth, and lifelong learning.
Division of Student Affairs Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Statement
The Division of Student Affairs is committed to continued excellence by learning, growing, and acting within our GVSU Laker community. We center students in everything we do and strive to create a safe and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We acknowledge that the United States has a complex history of embedded and structural inequities that create barriers for many people to full participation in public life, including in higher education. By offering dynamic opportunities for culturally informed and responsive programming, and by fostering environments for brave and rich dialogue, we strive to promote a university community that values difference. Through this work, Grand Valley Lakers are empowered to challenge oppressive systems and cultures and to create socially diverse and just environments within Grand Valley State University and our society.
Resources to Navigate Executive Orders
Grand Valley has a dedicated webpage to help Lakers navigate executive orders and other federal actions that could affect higher education or members of the GVSU community. To learn more about the university resources available to you, visit the Division of People, Equity and Culture's website.
Upcoming Events
2026 Laker Kickoff
Friday, August 28, 2026
6:00
p.m.
- 11:00
p.m.
Well be kicking the fall semester off with the annual Laker Kickoff on Friday, August 28 from 6 to 11 p.m. Our newest students will join fellow Lakers and their living communities in Lubbers Stadium at 6 p.m. to start off the evening with a pre-party f...
Beach Clean-up
Saturday, August 29, 2026
8:00
a.m.
Join fellow Grand Valley students and volunteer to clean up the beach in beautiful Grand Haven, Michigan. Meet in Kirkhof Pere Marquette Room 2204 at 8:00 a.m. for check-in and we will take the bus together. Buses leave at 8:30 a.m. Contact us at servi...
Campus Life Night
Sunday, August 30, 2026
6:00
p.m.
- 8:00
p.m.
**What is Campus Life Night?** The best spot on campus to... get involved and learning something new about GVSU! **Why should you go to Campus Life Night?** MAKE CONNECTIONS Meet your new community at Campus Life Night through the 300+ student organiza...
Rainbow Social
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
12:00
p.m.
- 3:00
p.m.
The Rainbow Social is a free event for GVSU students, faculty, and staff to gather, enjoy food, and explore campus and community resources.Brought to you by the Rainbow Resource Center, Rainbow Social is a free event for GVSU students, faculty, and sta...
Meet the Greeks
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
3:00
p.m.
- 6:00
p.m.
Meet the Greeks is an exciting campus event where students can connect with members of Greek life organizations, learn about their values and traditions, and explore opportunities for leadership, service, scholarship, and friendship. Stop by to meet ch...
Labor Day Cookout
Monday, September 7, 2026
3:00
p.m.
- 6:00
p.m.
Labor Day Cookout is a community gathering to celebrate the Labor Day holiday with great food, games, music, and fellowship. Join us for a relaxing afternoon of grilling, socializing, and enjoying the holiday with friends and neighbors.Competencies:Fun...