LGBT Faculty Association survey reveals deadnaming, pronoun disregard at GV

In their end-of-year newsletter, members of the LGBT Faculty and Staff Association (LGBT FSA) at Grand Valley State University reflected on LGBTQIA+ issues in the campus’ culture. A member survey illustrates trends in opinion regarding the University’s inclusivity, revealing persistent issues among faculty and staff with disregard of pronouns and identifiers. Several responses called out the University’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) for lack of cooperation and communication, including denying LGBT FSA a mechanism for advocacy work.

LGBT FSA is an affinity group at the University that works to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender faculty and staff members. The group analyses policies and practices at GVSU, and promotes programs that support LGBTQIA+ workers. 

Their newsletter included results of a survey that was sent out to LGBT FSA members, which allowed faculty and staff to express their successes and challenges of existing on campus. 52 members of the LGBT FSA responded to the survey, 80% of which advocated for a more inclusive and equitable campus climate. The results show a strong desire for more inclusivity among staff toward LGBTQIA+ individuals. Significant grievances expressed in the survey regarded faculty being “deadnamed,” using someone’s birth name rather than their preferred name, and the misuse or disregard of pronouns.

To read Max Bufkin’s full story about the FSA survey, click here.

Federal deportation threat prompts protest, anxiety in West Michigan

As part of his first day in office on Monday, Jan. 20, President Donald Trump signed 26 executive orders that reversed 78 bills from the Biden administration, declared energy and immigration emergencies, withdrew the U.S. from various alliances and attempted to end birthright citizenship, among various other actions.  For the Latinx community in Kent and Ottawa Counties, the president’s actions stirred upset and brought citizens to their feet in protest.

Trump halted immigration asylum until further notice, shutting down the CBP One app, which allowed immigrants to submit information and organize travel through customs and border control virtually, as well as canceling thousands of appointments and flights that were already scheduled for refugees. However, Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge. 

These orders have major implications for undocumented immigrants in the United States, as well as those seeking asylum from the persecution they may face in their home countries. The growing concerns spurred an active response from Kent and Ottawa County residents.

During Trump’s inauguration, more than 100 activists marched through Grand Rapids in protest of Trump’s immigration orders. The protest was organized by two local immigration advocacy groups, Movimiento Cosecha and GR Rapid Response. 

To read more about deportation concerns in West Michigan, click here.

Federal aid uncertainty strikes fear among GV community

On Monday, Jan. 27 President Donald Trump announced that all federal financial aid would be temporarily frozen, which sent students and federal aid-reliant organizations into an uproar. The executive order was then blocked by the U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan, temporarily pausing Trump’s effort to freeze funding. 

Trump’s push to freeze aid would mean that any program federally funded, excluding health insurance, social security and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, would not receive funding. Matthew Vaeth, the acting director of the government’s Office of Management and Budget, wrote in an official memo, “The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equality, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a water of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve” 

Despite the freeze being paused, Grand Valley State University did not waste any time ensuring students that, at the time, they would be unaffected by Trump’s action. An email, which was signed by the University’s Vice President of the Division of Enrollment Development & Educational Outreach, B. Donta Truss, stated GVSU was carefully monitoring actions from federal officials. The email also confirmed that Pell Grants and other federal student aid loans would not be impacted by any administrative order or memo.

To read more about federal aid concerns, click here.

Religious artwork causes controversy at GV

A painting displayed in the Russel H. Kirkhof Center has ignited controversy at Grand Valley State University due to its depiction of Christian religious figures. The piece, titled “Pétalos De Cambio” (“Petals of Change”), was created by Irlanda Beltran for her graphic design senior thesis exhibition, and bought by the University for $1,800. The controversial piece of artwork, which has caused a stir among students and state lawmakers, was taken down on Thursday, Feb. 6 for relocation.

One of three panels in the 8-by-10 foot installation depicts a gun pointing toward Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Catholic apparition of the Virgin Mary. According to the GVSU Art Gallery, the piece’s supposed intention is “to raise awareness around issues such as gender-based violence, mental health, gun control and homophobia,” especially in Mexico.

Christopher Knape, the assistant vice president of University Communications, gave some insight into the University’s decision to purchase and display Beltran’s piece.

“Our museum staff have conversations on every piece of artwork that comes into Grand Valley’s collection,” Knape said. “There is a collections committee that reviews every piece that comes into the collection, including student work.”

To read more about the removal of this painting, click here.

Federal guidelines cue GV leadership to shrink Title IX, DEI protections

In adherence to federal policy changes, Grand Valley State University’s People, Equity and Culture Division (PECD) released a new version of the University’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Misconduct (SLT 9.1) on Wednesday, Feb. 19. The new policy reverts the University’s Title IX protections back to a precedent set in 2020.

GVSU’s current policy grants more protections to those accused of sexual misconduct, minimizes LGBTQ+ protections and is in line with a federal ruling that deemed the requirement of identity-affirming behavior to be a violation of free speech.

During President Donald Trump’s first administration, former Secretary of Education and West Michigan native Betsy Devos made revisions to Title IX federal law that were seen as controversial. Devos expanded protections for students accused of sexual misconduct in efforts of “ensuring a fair grievance process.” The revisions minimized definitions of sexual misconduct and required cross-examination of the accuser for statements in a case to be considered. 

The University’s policies have continually aligned with each presidential administrations’ Title IX changes. Under former President Joe Biden, the University’s 2022 policy included “unwelcome conduct based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or pregnancy” within definitions of misconduct. Those specific definitions remain largely intact in the current policy but are now subject to change.

To read more about changes to University policy, click here.

GV community members push back against anti-trans speaker

On Thursday, March 13, Grand Valley State University’s chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) hosted a speaking event featuring Chloe Cole, a political activist who opposes gender-affirming care.

The event, which was titled “Exposing the Trans-Agenda: A Talk With a Detransitioner,” was held at the Russel H. Kirkhof Center. The speaking event’s title and guest garnered outrage from many University students, especially those who identify as transgender. Several counter-demonstrations were held on campus, and attended by students and community members in order to show support for the transgender community.

The University’s TPUSA chapter claimed on Instagram that the event was not an attack on the transgender community, and that their actions were protected under the First Amendment. GVPD officers were present at the talk, as TPUSA requested security. Photographers, including Lanthorn staff, were barred from entering the event.

The talk outlined the views of both Cole and TPUSA, which are that transgender people pose a threat to femininity, the government and children. During the talk’s Q&A section, Cole expressed opposition to gender-affirming care for all transgender individuals, including adults, and described being transgender as a “choice.” Several students who were in attendance felt Cole’s evidence was primarily based on personal anecdotes, and not factual information. 

To read more about this event and the response, click here.

Federal investigation launched into GV scholarships

On Friday, March 14, the U.S. Department of Education announced it is launching investigations into 52 universities as part of a large-scale initiative targeting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. Grand Valley State University was listed as one of seven schools being investigated specifically for “alleged impermissible race-based scholarships and race-based segregation.” The University received notice from the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) regarding the investigation.

The investigation into GVSU is in response to a federal complaint filed in January by the Equal Protection Project (EPP), which alleged that 11 University scholarships for BIPOC students violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. 

GVSU President Philomena Mantella released a statement on Friday in response to the investigation.

“Our legal team is currently reviewing this communication from OCR and gathering information to inform the university’s response and next steps,” Mantella said. “GVSU will continue to lean into its values while maintaining compliance with the law.”

To read more about the federal investigation, click here. 

Reports: Ottawa commissioner concealed firearm at GV, despite policy

An Ottawa County commissioner brought a concealed firearm onto Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus earlier this month. Although administration and staff were notified quickly, the University’s response time to the incident is questionable, despite a firm policy that prohibits such behavior.

Commissioner Joe Moss was one of many community members who traveled to GVSU on Thursday, March 13, to hear a speech given by Chloe Cole, an anti-trans activist. During the time Moss was on campus for the event, which was held by the GVSU chapter of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), multiple complaints were made to University administration and the campus police department stating that Moss was carrying a concealed firearm, which violates the University’s Weapons Policy. 

Those who reported Moss to GVPD said the University did not act quickly enough, nor appropriately, in addressing the policy violation. Although University leadership, including public safety officials, claim immediate action was taken, Moss remained on university property for over half an hour before he was told by a GVSU official to leave campus. 

The incident raises questions about how GVPD procedure is set up to respond to reports of weapons on campus, even if they aren’t active threats.

To read more about this incident, click here.

Students react to CAB Spring Concert cancellation

On Thursday, March 27, Grand Valley State University’s Campus Activities Board (CAB) announced on Instagram that the annual spring concert, which was set to take place in April, is canceled.

The concert is a favorite tradition of many GVSU students, as it first began in 2009 and has been a highly-anticipated event ever since. The post, which reads as follows, expresses CAB’s apologies and disappointment in the event’s unfortunate turn, and highlights efforts made to book artists despite implied multiple rejections.

“After careful consideration, we regret to announce the difficult decision to cancel the 2025 Spring Concert,” the statement declared. “We are sorry, and we acknowledge the disappointment that students may experience with this decision. We’re feeling it too. Multiple offers to a variety of artists were made, and despite our efforts, none of them were accepted. It is also important to note that while the Campus Activities Board is a student-led programming body within the Office of Student Life, there are times that decisions like these are made outside of students’ control.”

To read more about the Spring Concert cancellation, click here. 

Jackson, Vanlerberghe set to lead Student Senate

Grand Valley State University’s Student Senate announced the results of their recent election on Friday, March 28. Evan Jackson and Ty Vanlerberghe were elected to serve as the next president and vice president. 20 at-Large senators were also elected, along with 19 college-specific senators. 

Prior to being elected president, Jackson joined the senate at the end of his second year at GVSU and has held the chief of staff position. Vice President-elect Vanlerberghe joined as a freshman and has served as both a general senator and public relations chair. As they prepare to step into their newly elected positions, they hope the student body sees their love and commitment for the University.

“As soon as we got the email with the official election results, we called each other as fast as we could to celebrate,” Vanlerberghe said. “The feeling was indescribable, knowing that all of our hard work had paid off and that we (have) the opportunity to lead the organization we love.”

To read more about Jackson and Vanlerberghe’s election, click here.

Homeland Security revoked two international student visas, GV says

On Monday, Grand Valley State University announced that two international students had their visas revoked by the federal government. According to the Division of People, Equity and Culture, University staff members discovered the revocation when reviewing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reports. GVSU says they were not informed of the decision prior to their own review.

“That review was prompted by media reports about visas being revoked for students at other universities around the country,” said the announcement. “GVSU has not been contacted by DHS about the reasons for the visa revocations.”

 To read more about student visa revocation, click here.

Earth to GV: students collaborate with NASA on prototype device

A group of Grand Valley State University students traveled to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas over the summer to test their design of a flag-deploying device that successfully withstands the pressures of space. The project originated from a competition created by NASA called the Micro-g NExT Challenge.

“Astro Anchors,” a team of twelve students from the GVSU’s chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) organization, were chosen to collaborate with NASA through the special project last winter. The Astro Anchors were selected to move forward with their design and worked alongside a NASA mentor and engineer over the summer to develop and test prototypes of their design. Students involved in the challenge worked together to design a lunar flag, flagpole and anchoring system that can be easily deployed by a fully-suited astronaut while on the surface of the moon.

The goal of the contest is to inspire college undergraduates to design a device that could assist astronauts in space. Astro Anchors were the only team to complete each of NASA’s initiatives for the challenge. Their prototype and comprehensive report is now under review by NASA, with the possibility of being used in future Moon landing missions after more strenuous testing.

To read more about GVSU students’ collaboration with NASA, click here. 

GV to sell Laker-themed alcoholic beverage at athletic events

Grand Valley State University’s Athletics Department has teamed up with Long Road Distillers to release the ready-to-drink cocktail, Lake + Valley Lemonade, which will be sold at Lubbers Stadium and the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena during athletic events. The beverage, created by the alumni-owned company, is the first GVSU-affiliated alcoholic beverage to be sold on campus.

Owners of Long Road Distillers, Jon O’Conner and Kyle Van Strien, have a personal history with GVSU. As alumni, the pair bonded “over a shared commitment for the neighborhood they both call home,” according to the Long Road Distillers website.

The cocktail was officially released Monday, June 24, and is now available for purchase throughout the state of Michigan. Long Road Distillers sell Lake + Valley Lemonade in stores, bars and restaurants across the state. To see where Lake + Valley Lemonade is distributed, visit the Long Road website under the Spirit Finder.

To read Mallory Burt’s full story about alcohol sales at the University, click here.

GV hikes tuition, room and board costs for tenth consecutive year

With the 2024-2025 academic year approaching, universities across Michigan, including Grand Valley State University have set higher tuition costs for the tenth consecutive year. On April 26, GVSU’s Board of Trustees (BOT) approved an increase in tuition, including room and board.

According to the Detroit Free Press, the cost of in-state and out-of-state tuition at GVSU rose 3.5%, while the cost of housing and dining rose 5.2%. GVSU students will have to pay an estimated additional $524 per year in tuition fees, according to MLive. The $524 doesn’t include the estimated $185 increase in campus living costs or the $100 increase in meal plan costs.

During GVSU’s 1995-1996 academic year, the cost of tuition per semester was only $1,390, and has steadily risen ever since. In 2020, the average cost at GVSU for a 12-15 credit semester was $6,622 for an in-state resident. The current semester’s price rate has risen to $7,570, marking the tenth consecutive year the university has increased the cost of attendance.

To learn more about the BOT’s decision to increase campus living costs, read the rest of the story. 

GV leads Michigan universities for in-state alumni retention

The W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research published a study revealing Grand Valley State University as the most effective Michigan higher education institution for retaining alumni in the state’s job market after graduation.

The study, published by Washington Monthly, compared the amount of state-funded money spent on schools to the amount of alumni that remained in Michigan after graduation. The Upjohn Institute’s study concluded that students from GVSU continue to stay in Michigan for their careers after graduation at a much higher rate than that of other state universities. For every $100,000 spent, GVSU produces about 5 graduates that stay in Michigan. Not only does GVSU lead the ranking in Michigan and retain double the average amount in the state, but GVSU’s success rate is over three times the average of colleges across the United States.

“When I was a student here, I loved Grand Valley because it gave me the opportunity to get practical experience, so I I tried to get involved in everything I could,” said G. Bradley Back, a GVSU alumni and professor in the School of Communications. “It benefited me, and it was easier to get an internship, and it definitely helped me get a job, (having) that practical experience.”

For more information about GVSU’s alumni retention, click here.  

Advisory groups convene to address GV faculty concerns about Omni learning program

High FOIA cost contributes to dropping of GV student’s Title IX case

A student at Grand Valley State University was recently quoted over $84,000 to retrieve information requested under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The student had previously filed two Title IX complaints against a University administrator, and by submitting FOIA requests, they aimed to gather supportive evidence for their case.

The complaints were filed through the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX against a member of administration in Student Accessibility Resources. The University’s investigation into the student’s claims began in November 2023, and unfortunately, the student couldn’t obtain the information they were looking for before the Title IX office dropped the cases.

The second claim alleged “unprofessional conduct, harassment, bullying and coercion” took place between the student and faculty member. Due to the sensitivity of the issue, the student has asked to remain anonymous.

To see the rest of Emma Armijo and Olivia Mulka’s coverage of this case, click here.

GV community grieves student death, questions arise surrounding lack of University statement

The recent death of a freshman student at Grand Valley State University has left the campus community mourning and sparked conversation surrounding the University’s role in communicating health and safety issues. The student’s cause of death has not yet been determined, but is currently being investigated by the GVSU Department of Public Safety. Out of respect for the student’s family, and as advised by GVPD, the student will not be identified in this article.

On Sept. 30, GVPD received a medical emergency call from the Robinson Living Center on the Allendale campus. An 18-year-old female student was found on the ground, unresponsive and not breathing by a resident of Robinson Living Center. The resident called GVPD, then proceeded to perform CPR on the student.  GVPD arrived at the scene with an AED a few minutes later, but no shock was administered. Following these unsuccessful attempts, the student’s death was declared by a medical examiner (ME) about one hour after the student had been found.

To read the rest of Max Bufkin’s coverage of the student death, click here. 

 GV faculty, students process conservative sway in election results

Former President Donald Trump is slated to return to the Oval Office in what many are recognizing as one of the greatest political comebacks in history. Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential race has roused public opinion at Grand Valley State University and across the nation.

Although the winner of the presidential race wasn’t announced until the early morning hours of Wednesday, Nov. 6, it was clear hours before that a “red wave” was breaking on the shores of the U.S. political landscape. Trump’s victory came through 312 electoral votes as compared to Harris’ 226. 270 is the number of votes from the electoral college needed to win the presidency.

Trump also won the popular vote, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished by a Republican since former President George W. Bush in 2004. Trump was able to win the national tally by garnering a lead of almost 4 million votes.

For the rest of the presidential election results coverage by Joseph Poulos, find the full story here.

Post-election poetry reading encourages community expression at GV

On Nov. 7, following Donald Trump being declared winner of the presidential election, Grand Valley State University senior Bran Hurst hosted an impromptu community poetry reading at the Language Resource Center (LRC). With the help of GVSU student Sophie Bytwerk and LRC staff, the poetry reading provided a space for students to express themselves together instead of feeling alone.

During the event, 15 students, faculty and staff shared their thoughts through art, poetry and songs. The turnout filled every chair in the LRC, and according to Hurst, served to uplift fellow students.

“All of my friends were being very pessimistic, and I wanted to redirect that energy into something with a little bit more agency,” Hurst said. “I wanted to help people feel like they can do things, and I wanted to remind myself that I can do things to help people.”

To see the rest of Sara Bagley’s coverage on how the election impacted students, read the full story here. 

 

GV students receive racist text messages, part of nationwide investigation

On Thursday, Nov. 7, Grand Valley State University sent out an email statement to the student body, which indicated that multiple students had been targeted by racist text messages. The messages, which have been reported nationwide, told recipients that they had been “selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation,” and that a “van” would pick them up.

According to CBS News, the messages have been reported in at least 20 states. The texts have been received by many college students, including those at three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Along with other universities, GVSU forwarded the harassment reports to the FBI, as well as the State’s attorney general.

To understand how this nationwide racism campaign is affecting GVSU students, read Lee Marentette’s full story.

 

Recovery of uncounted MI ballots leads many voters to question election integrity

On Nov. 9, multiple Michigan counties discovered additional election ballots that had not been counted days. Together, the missing votes totaled over 26,000 across Kent, Kalamazoo, Calhoun and Leelanau counties.

While voting officials and political science educators maintain that complications are not unusual, this large tally of votes have changed the results of certain local races. Discrepancies in vote counts, coupled with a distrust in absentee voting systems, have led many voters in Michigan to feel State election results might not be accurate.

13,795 of the total 26,662 missing votes were discovered in Kent County. The cause for the error in Kent, Kalamazoo and Leelanau counties was reportedly due to human error, while Calhoun County identified a software issue as the cause.

To read the full story about missing ballots and post-election procedures, click here. 

 

GV receives grant to support Indigenous students, raise cultural awareness

This semester, Grand Valley State University received a $63,467 grant from the Native American Heritage Fund (NAHF). The grant will be used to support Indigenous students at GVSU and raise awareness about Anishinaabe culture. While the plans for the donation are being finalized, Native American organizations and programs at GVSU continue to provide resources and opportunities to the University’s community.

NAHF provided funding to GVSU so that the money could be used to educate students on Anishinaabe culture. The Anishinaabe are Indigenous people who live in the Great Lakes region and parts of Canada. “Anishinaabe” is a collective name for three distinct groups: the Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatomi, also known as the Council of Three Fires.

Lin Bardwell, assistant director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), said the funds will be used to raise visibility and awareness about the Anishinaabe. The fund will also allow traditional knowledge keepers, Anishinaabe spiritual leaders that were taught by an Elder, to co-teach with faculty in certain course sections. By spreading cultural awareness and including knowledge keepers in facilitation, GVSU hopes the donation money will help Indigenous students who may feel isolated or be struggling academically.

To understand the impact of the donation from the Native American Heritage Fund, read the rest of the article. 

With more than 7,000 incoming students and even more returning students coming to Grand Valley State University this fall, Housing and Residence Life is facing new on-campus housing challenges.

GVSU’s residence halls are over capacity. The influx of students signed to campus living contracts caused GVSU’s Housing and Residence Life to make adjustments to existing housing structures to increase room occupancy. This meant putting students in make-shift rooms in converted halls and lounges and housing more than 100 students in off-campus apartments leased by the university. How the university has addressed and managed the issues related to overcrowding has created new challenges for life on campus.

To read more coverage on the campus housing conflicts, click here.

GR community shows support during Suicide Awareness Month

Grand Rapids and Grand Valley State University show support for families and loved ones for throughout Suicide Awareness Month through the “Out of the Darkness Walk” and the “Lakers Keep Lakers Safe” initiative.

With September being Suicide Awareness Month, there are many efforts from a range of activists and organizations to raise awareness and open the conversation about mental health.

The Grand Rapids Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Sept. 17 was a proactive support walk to unite the Grand Rapids community and “acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about.”

To read more of Abigail Jones’ coverage about suicide awareness in the community, click here.

Ottawa County budget meeting ends with slashed funds, legal uncertainty

After weeks of deliberation, the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners reached a decision about the budget for the Ottawa County Department of Health for the upcoming fiscal year. While the meeting was happening, the Chair Commissioner Joe Moss electronically served Health Officer Adeline Hambley’s legal team notification of his filing for her removal.

During the seven-hour session that lasted until nearly 1 a.m. on Sept. 27, county representatives spent over two hours listening to residents’ opinions on the budget cuts. Many of these commenters came directly from a community rally against the cuts which occurred outside the health department prior to the meeting.

To read more of Grace Smith’s & Emma Armijo’s coverage on Ottawa County budget cuts, click here.

LGBTQ students targeted by “street preachers”

A group of religiously motivated individuals gathered around the Cook Carillon Tower at Grand Valley State University to preach to people passing by about Christian salvation, specifically targeting LGBTQ and anti-abortion issues on Friday, Sept. 21. A crowd of students gathered around the group, responding to the “street preachers” with shouts and homemade signs and pride flags showing their support for the communities under fire.

The street preachers were mostly concerned with individuals who identify within the LGBTQ community, calling out to passing students saying their actions and life choices have condemned them to a “life in hell.” Many students found this extremely disruptive, offensive and unnecessary.

To read more of Emma Armijo’s Street Preachers story, click here.

Sticker shock: why are GV C-Store prices so high?

Grand Valley State University’s campus stores sell products to students at heavily inflated rates, sometimes as high as about 360% more then the item’s original market value.

Clare Meteer, a Grand Valley State University senior majoring in Business Management and Dance, recently noticed she needed allergy medication. Meteer does not have a car and had very little time in between classes, so she decided to go to the Kirkhof Center C-Store, a convenience store on campus that is part of GVSU’s Laker Food Co., formerly known as Campus Dining, to buy some Claritin.

To continue reading Elizabeth Schanz’s coverage about C-Store price inflation, click here.

Walkouts in pharmacies across the nation; GR could be next

Nearly two dozen CVS locations in Kansas City, Mo. shut down their pharmacies unexpectedly due to staff walkouts on Sept. 21 and 22. Widespread reports from all over the country show that CVS pharmacies are short-staffed and employees have been forced to work under unsafe conditions, which could cause more pharmaceutical shutdowns, and even in Grand Rapids.

According to USA Today, the final straw for the Missouri walkouts was when a manager was fired due to his refusal to force his pharmacists to close their pharmacies to help other short-staffed locations in need of help.

To continue reading Natalie Brooks’ coverage on pharmacy walkouts, click here.

MI introduces gun legislation bills that would loosen gun control restrictions

State Rep. Gina Johnsen and Sen. Jonathan Lindsey have proposed two new bills that would make Michigan a gun sanctuary state. The two Republicans’ plan to make Michigan a state that protects the Second Amendment to a greater degree.

So far, two bills exist, but have yet to be passed: House Bill 5132 and Senate Bill 584. In the strictest terms, they would grant the state license to enforce which federal regulations regarding firearms they would like to recognize. This would mean a lapse in universal background checks, red flag laws and any others that inhibit gun ownership in the state.

To read more of Joseph Poulos’ coverage of MI legislation, click here.

Bioethics professor overcomes challenges, immunocompromisation

Meegan Zickus is a professor of Biomedical Ethics (bioethics) at Grand Valley State University who suffers from a rare autoimmune disease called Necrotizing Autoimmune Myopathy (NAM). NAM is a disease characterized by “necrosis, or cell death, in the muscles, which causes weakness and fatigue.”

Though this condition has altered the way Zickus is able to interact with students, her passion for teaching and appreciation for learning contribute to her continued perseverance and her ability to be asset to her students on campus. Zickus spends her time teaching bioethics courses online, connecting with students and helping the law community through events like, “Know Your Rights” on campus.

To read more of Mallory Burt’s feature on Zickus, click here.

GV sells alcohol at homecoming game

Grand Valley State University sold beer at the concession stands for the first time during the homecoming football game on Oct. 28. GVSU is historically a “dry campus,” which means alcohol is prohibited from university facilities, with some exceptions including designated tailgate areas within a particular timeframe. The sale of beer and other alcohol at the game could potentially adjust the university’s alcohol policy to a permanent move in the future.

Michigan law passed in July allowed in-state universities to sell alcohol in college sports arenas. House Bill 4328 and Senate Bill 247, gave each Michigan university the right to acquire liquor or tavern licenses for the purpose of making alcohol available for purchase to those aged 21 and older one hour before a sporting event.

To read more of Joseph Poulos’ coverage of alcohol sales at GVSU, click here.

Supplying students: Replenish expand to Basic Needs Center

Replenish, the campus food pantry at Grand Valley State University, has expanded its services and reopened as the Basic Needs Center effective as of Wednesday, Nov. 8. The expansion includes access to another room at the facility that houses donated clothes, shoes, kitchen and household supplies, school supplies and other items available for students in need.

Located at the Allendale Campus Replenish, the Basic Need Center’s expanded services help create an equitable campus environment by recognizing that basic needs go beyond food.

The Gayle R. Davis Center for Women and Gender Equity manages the Replenish resource program. Alyssa Beil is a Graduate Assistant at the Center for Women and Gender Equity and is studying in the School of Social Work.

To read more of Chloe Schram’s story about Replenish, click here.

Ferris HC Tony Annese suspended vs GV, can still attend game

The No. 2 ranked Grand Valley State University Lakers are preparing to face off with the No. 3 Ferris State University Bulldogs for the second time this year and the sixth time in three seasons, but this is no ordinary matchup.

The last time the two met on Oct. 14, GVSU jumped out to a 35-0 lead before ultimately beating Ferris State 49-28. When they meet again on Saturday, Nov. 18, it will be without one of the two head coaches on the sideline.

As previously announced on March 23, 2023, Ferris State head coach Tony Annese will be serving a one-game suspension that was issued by the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) Division II Football Committee.

To follow Nelson Hubbell’s coverage of conflicts with Ferris State HC, click here.

Lecture addresses health struggles within “unhoused” GR community

Accessing medical aid while experiencing homelessness can be challenging. On Thursday, Nov. 16, Beth Makowski, the Medical Director for Michigan State University, hosted a lecture at the DeVos Center at Grand Valley State University about providing healthcare for those experiencing homelessness.

Alongside Makowski during the presentation, “Street Medicine: Caring for the Unsheltered,” were MSU medical students Christa Schafer and Victoria Moaddel. The presentation was a part of MSU’s “Your Health” lecture series. The presentation’s main emphasis was on street medicine, which brings medical treatment to those experiencing homelessness, hosted in conjunction with GVSU and Grand Rapids Community College.

To read more of Max Bufkin’s coverage on the unhoused community in Grand Rapids, click here.

Questions arise surrounding injury care at GV

For many students, college is the first time they find themselves independently navigating the healthcare system. Many factors can make seeking healthcare to be complicated and expensive which adds additional challenges when experiencing an illness or injury. When compounded with the fast-paced environment of academic demands, many students have struggled with the conflict of maintaining their academic schedules and obtaining urgent or emergent care.

Accidents and injuries become more frequent to student-athletes or those involved in physically demanding studies. Grand Valley State University Dance major, Haley Rosendale’s recent injury experience caused her to question how students access healthcare services.

To read more of Grace Smith’s story on Injury Care at GVSU, click here.

After four seasons with the Lakers, Grand Valley State University men’s club hockey Head Coach Carl Trosien will move on from his position with the program.

“I am grateful to GVSU for the opportunity to coach here,” Trosien said. “I have really enjoyed my time here and the friendships we have made.”

This decision comes just five months after the club won its first conference title in the Great Lakes Collegiate Hockey Conference (GLCHC) Division 1 league, which was also the same year the club moved up to that level.

Trosien made it clear that he was not actively looking for a new position, but instead an opportunity fell into his lap.

“I was not looking, the family was very happy here,” Trosien said. “(However) there are not a ton of full-time ACHA jobs that are run through NCAA athletic departments, so it was something I had to consider. Long story short, it was a family decision first and a hockey decision second.”

To hear about Trosien’s resignation decision from Sports Editor Anthony Clark Jr.’s, click here.

Lakers show out in Spartan Invite as GV cross country places top-two

The Grand Valley State University men’s and women’s cross country teams had a successful start to their fall season in the Spartan Invitational as the men’s team placed first and the women’s finished second overall.

GVSU head coach Jerry Baltes was pleased with the results of his teams, stating that both sides of the cross country program are “focused on training at a high level” in order to compete for a back-to-back championship.

The men’s team finished with a score of 45 points, dominating their opponents and overcoming three NCAA Division I opponents: Cincinnati (second place, 89 points), Michigan State University (third place, 115 points) and Kent State University (fourth place, 162 points).

To read more of Ermias Stewart’s coverage on the team’s performance at the Spartan Invitational, click here.

Men’s golf wraps up fall season with another team title win

In their fourth first-place finish in the fall season, the Grand Valley State University men’s golf closed out a successful fall season with a win at the Motor City Invitational.

The Lakers found themselves in a tight match after day one, holding only a six-stroke lead over Tiffin University, with Wayne State and Ferris State not far behind. GVSU shot a 296 on day one, eight strokes above par.

Sophomore Charles DeLong led the Lakers on the individual leaderboards once more after 18 holes as he sat in second place (71, -2). Sophomore Nick Krueger (fifth) and freshman Charlie Cooley (tied-sixth) were as influential in the first round as they held a score of 73 and 74 respectively.

Being one stroke behind the first place leader after round one (Hurtubise; Wayne State), DeLong was familiar with this type of situation and used his versatility to take charge.

To continue the golf team’s season recap by Jason Millis, click here.

Late touchdown lifts GV football over Ferris on the Road

The now 7-0 Grand Valley State University football team defeated the defending NCAA DII National Champions in Ferris State University in the annual Anchor-Bone Classic to end the regular season six-game losing streak against the opponent.

With the win, the Lakers were able to avenge two losses from the previous season and dealt the Bulldogs its first regular season loss since 2017.

“(The games left a) very bad taste in our mouth,” junior linebacker Abe Swanson said. “We went a whole season thinking about the playoff game and how much that loss hurt us, and it gave us fuel going into this one. There’s still a lot of season left, but it was so satisfying to get that win.”

GVSU started the game flawlessly, as junior quarterback Cade Peterson led the offense 60 yards in six plays on the opening drive, capped off by an 18-yard touchdown connection from Peterson to senior running back Jack Provencher to put the Lakers up a touchdown, 7-0.

To read more of Brian Bloom’s article of the huge win FSU, click here.

Women’s volleyball finds momentum in three-game week

In another competitive week of close-scoring matches, the Grand Valley State University women’s volleyball team took on three conference opponents that finished 2-1 overall.

The Lakers played on Oct. 25 (Davenport University), Oct. 28 (Ferris State) and Oct. 29 (Lake Superior State), all of which resulted 3-1, 1-3 and 3-1 respectively.

GVSU mustered a 3-1 redemption match against the crosstown rival Davenport as the previous matchup was dropped 1-3 at home. This time around, the Lakers found themselves on the offensive attack and the defensive blocks as the only set loss was by three points.

The first set started well as the Lakers came out hot and created an 8-4 lead early. However, the Panthers would respond as the set continued to be a back-and-forth battle up to the 20-16 mark.

Going on a 1-4 run, the Panthers looked as if they might come from behind and steal the set, but the Lakers didn’t fold and eventually took the first set, 25-20.

To find out the outcome of all three matches written by Madeleine Smith, click here.

GV women’s basketball begins season undefeated after two games

Grand Valley State University’s women’s basketball is now 2-0 after a successful two-game road trip against Missouri – St. Louis (81-55) and Maryville University (78-57).

Missouri would win the opening tip but fail to convert on their first field goal attempt, and GVSU wasted no time to respond to the miss with a three-pointer by senior guard Emily Spitzley as the offensive attack wouldn’t let up.

The first 10 minutes of action would see the Lakers create a 19-9 lead as a three-point attempt by senior forward Hannah Kulas just before the buzzer would miss the mark.

As the action continued in the second quarter, GVSU continued to separate themselves from the opponent no matter how hard the Tritons attempted to claw their way back.

To read through the entire article by Gabriela Garbey, click here.

Women’s soccer achieves conference title and GLIAC honors heading into national tournament

After two shutout performances and a tough championship match, Grand Valley State University women’s soccer are the 2022 GLIAC Champions.

As the No. 1 seed in the conference, GVSU hosted all three battles on their home pitch and used it to their advantage.

GVSU’s first match on Nov. 1 was against Purdue Northwest (7-0), an opponent they managed to also shutout in both regular-season matchups (8-0, 2-0).

Applying pressure early, the Lakers opened the match with a goal  by senior forward Kennedy Bearden (her first of two) on an assist by senior defender Cate Brown (2:52).

Four missed shots by sophomore midfielder Emma Chudik, two by fifth-year forward Kennedy Metzger and senior defender Alexa Morello led up to PNW’s first shot attempt of the match (16:32) only to sail by the top right of the goal.

To continue the recap by Clark Jr., click here.

About one of every nine college students struggles with food insecurity daily.

However, the stigma that arises with the mention of food pantries tends to worsen students’ ability to meet their needs, which in turn can lead to a mental and physical health decline on top of academic success.

Grand Valley State University has been trying to combat food insecurity and the stigma associated with getting help through Replenish– a food pantry that also provides students with essentials such as toiletries, kitchen appliances and even laptop loans.

For more insight into how Replenish helps GVSU students, read Clemence Daniere’s full piece here.

GV highlights mental health awareness

Members of multiple organizations at Grand Valley State University took part in special events to promote students’ mental health with Mental Health Awareness Week.

From Monday Sept. 12 to Friday Sept. 16, this student-led event focused on a different topic every day in order to spread awareness of mental health. Monday began the week with ‘Mindfulness Monday.’

“We are encouraging students to come and take resources, we have a little ‘braincation’ QR code that takes you to University Counseling Center, meditations and mindfulness practices,” said Isabella Griesmaier, who was handing out information at the event. “We’re also inviting students to go into the LGBTQ Resource Center to relax, spend some time in their probably busy day and look over some of these tips we have.”

For the full story of Melia William’s coverage on mental health awareness on campus, click here.

GV gets rebrand with Laker Food Co.

Laker Food Co., formerly Campus Dining, has recently been re-established as the brand new food service at Grand Valley State University.

Despite there being numerous bumps in the road with this corporation over the past two years such as poor feedback from students or the COVID-19 outbreak, the company has made efforts to turn it into a positive experience.

“Like most businesses, supply chain issues, labor shortages and reduced populations made for challenging operations,” said Deb Rambadt, Marketing Director of Laker Food Co. at GVSU.

To read more of Lea Gaetto’s coverage of the campus dining rebranding, click here.

GV Renaissance Festival brings students to the past

This past weekend Grand Valley State University held its yearly, and much anticipated, renaissance fair. The grassy area around the clock tower was overrun by tents and people who share their love for the event.

Merchants, entertainers and visitors gathered to immerse themselves in the renaissance era for just a few days. This event, which was held by the GVSU Renaissance Festival Club, was the 26th annual festival.

Throughout the club’s time, it has shrunk in size some years and grown in others, but the tradition of the festival has continued on despite attendance levels. This year, the club has about 20 active members, which allowed them to set up a sizable festival.

For a deeper dive into Clemence Daniere’s coverage of the Renaissance Festival at GVSU, read here.

GV rallies to support veterans on campus this Veteran’s Day

Each year, Grand Valley State University rallies together to celebrate Veteran’s Day and show support for student veterans on campus. GVSU prides itself on being a safe and inclusive place for veterans and active military members to continue their education after or during service.

This year the Campus Activities Board (CAB) held a banner signing event for students to help construct a banner thanking local veterans for their service. Donuts and cider were provided and students sat talking with one another. They shared their own stories or stories of family members in the service and celebrated the dedicated service veterans provide to the United States.

Later in the week, GVSU hosted Vice Admiral Sandra Stosz for their 12th annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast and a later scheduled keynote presentation.  

For more on Isabelle England’s story covering Veteran’s Day, read here.

Mary Idema Pew Library hosts Great Lakes invasive species projects

In an effort to raise awareness on the invasion of exotic species into the Great Lakes, a geology class at Grand Valley State University held a Creative Project Day where students used their creativity to make a project based on an invasive species of their choosing.

At the multi-purpose room in the Mary Idema Pew Library more than 80 creative projects were displayed, including posters, poems, presentations, songs, sculptures and dioramas.

The project topics centered on a problem the students chose from a book titled “Pandora’s Locks” written by Jeff Alexander. The book discusses the St. Andrews Seaway, a network of locks, canals and channels that enable ships to move from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes, taking invasive species with them.

To read more of Sabrina Rihtarshich’s coverage on this showcase, click here.