Group members meet weekly in the Russel H. Kirkhof Center to discuss current events and political issues that affect GVSU students. Voices for Justice researches local volunteering and fundraising activities to take part in and offers space for members to discuss their thoughts and opinions. Meetings are prioritized as a time to connect with one another, emphasized by their casual and conversational atmosphere.

“Voices for Justice is an organization that prioritizes and expresses the importance of human rights,” said Gabrielle Salinas, the club’s president. “We heavily focus on what we can do for others and how we can make a difference. Everyone who is a part of Voices for Justice is compassionate, positive and supportive of each other.”

Recently, Voices for Justice engaged in an opportunity to assist refugees through volunteer work. Students worked with the Chicago Refugee Coalition, a nonprofit organization that works to provide support and resources to refugees as they begin their lives in the United States.

“During our time volunteering, we provided individuals with items such as clothing, accessories, sanitary products and food,” said Chloe Ward, vice president of Voices for Justice. “We were able to help support families who were in need of certain products.

Voices for Justice also encourages student participation through movie screenings. In February, the organization held a screening of “42: The Jackie Robinson Story.” The film was chosen to highlight Robinson’s impact on the sport and promote awareness of Black excellence. On Monday, March 31, the group showed “Hidden Figures.” The 2016 biographical film follows Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three women who worked as NASA mathematicians in the 1960s. After viewing, participants discussed the film’s themes and fostered conversation about identity and discrimination.

“A major takeaway from the film is the portrayal of racial and gender barriers,” Salinas said. “The film allowed us to have conversations about how far society has come in terms of racial and gender equality, but also how much further there still is to go in many fields.”

Salinas said the club will continue to host film events in order to increase awareness for the student body, and give attendees a forum to discuss and consider complex issues.

Voices for Justice members are looking forward to an upcoming Thrift Swap, which will be hosted on Monday, April 7 on the Kirkhof Lawn. During this time, students can bring items to donate and receive other clothing items in exchange. The event will also serve to promote the organization to prospective members.

“You can bring any clothes or accessories you no longer need or want and swap them out with something else,” Ward said. “We have implemented a system where each clothing item is worth a certain number of tickets. For every item you bring, you will receive tickets and use your tickets like money.”

Ward said any clothing or accessories left over will be donated.

By aiming to advocate for human rights in an approachable way, Voices for Justice attempts to reach a wider audience and spread a message of humanity, equity and solidarity. Imparting such values can help raise awareness of local and global issues that affect many individuals, including students, on a daily basis.

The organizations and campus partners included in 5 Days of Service were Ottawa County Parks, The Other Way Ministry, Gilda’s Club, the Sustainable Agriculture Project (SAP) and Kids’ Food Basket. By engaging with groups that provide different types of services, students were able to learn about how each organization fulfills a need within the community.

SAP is conveniently located near the University’s Allendale Campus, and students worked with team members to learn about sustainable practices concerning local food production processes. At Ottawa County Parks, volunteers removed invasive species of plants from park grounds while learning about wildlife and plant maintenance. Students also learned the value of maintaining urban spaces during a service project at The Other Way Ministry. Volunteers cleaned and organized both inside and outside of the property. At Gilda’s Club, a space for individuals diagnosed with cancer, students were able to directly provide support by participating in group activities and preparing food. Kids’ Food Basket, whose mission is to ensure accessible and nutritious food for children, welcomed volunteers in packing and decorating lunch bags, while also learning about food insecurity in urban areas.

“5 Days of Service is a one-week event allowing GVSU students to volunteer with local organizations,” said Sandra Osei, a civic engagement assistant for OSL. “The goal is to connect students with their community, introduce them to local nonprofits and encourage lifelong civic engagement. It’s a way for students to give back while also learning about the impact of service.”

Osei noted that 5 Days of Service started as Community Outreach Week in collaboration with GVSU Alumni Relations, but after the pandemic, the tradition was restructured to become more student-focused and accessible.

Muhammad Qasim, also an OSL civic engagement assistant, explained that local organizations and partners are selected based on proximity to the University and ease of travel.

“The main idea was to select local organizations where students can commute easily (on the) Laker Line with our site leader or (an organization that) can come on or near campus,” Qasim said. “We also considered choosing organizations with different activities to participate in each day.”

Osei elaborated on this, stating OSL aims to provide a diverse range of service opportunities for students.

“Some organizations, like Sustainable Agriculture Project, allow students to contribute on campus, while others, like The Other Way Ministry and Gilda’s Club, provide opportunities to support people in need through direct service,” Osei said.

Through acts of service, student volunteers contributed to the preservation of organizations and demonstrated multiple ways to show love and respect to their community. Offering one’s time and keeping an open mind has the potential to make a significant difference and act as a bridge for connection, trust and sustainability. The OSL Student Engagement Team nurtures this potential by promoting such service opportunities.

Holi, which has roots in Indian culture, was first mentioned in historical texts that date as far back as the seventh century. The holiday primarily signifies the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season, which has associations with renewal and the end of conflict. Joy and love are the central themes of this celebration. Another important aspect of Holi is the idea of play. Colored water and powder are thrown by those who engage in the holiday, which puts a focus on happiness within the community. Holi is a time of carefree togetherness. 

Likhithasree Kommineni, the membership officer of the Indian Association, explained how the tradition of Holi came to be.

“Holi originates from Hindu mythology, where Lord Prahlada, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, triumphed over his tyrannical father, King Hiranyakashipu, with the help of Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu,” Kommineni said. “Holi is also a time for renewal. People come together to celebrate, forgive past grievances and embrace a fresh start.”

According to Kommineni, the core elements of Holi, such as throwing colors and enjoying music, have remained the same across the globe. However, outside of India, one different aspect can be found in the cuisine. 

“One noticeable difference (has been) the absence of traditional sweets and drinks like lassi, which are commonly enjoyed after the celebrations in India,” Kommineni said. “Despite that, the spirit of joy and togetherness (at the event) was very much alive at GVSU.”

Kommineni thanked ASAP and the Kaufman Interfaith Institute for their help in hosting the event.

“We (the Indian Association) were especially grateful to Anna Miller from ASAP for sponsoring the colors and Liz English (of the Kaufman Interfaith Institute)  for providing snacks, which showed how much the GVSU community values cultural celebrations and making students feel at home,” said Kommineni.

By hosting a Holi celebration at the University, students were able to expose themselves to a new culture, ideas and way of life. Events like these can broaden students’ worldview, and help them become active and educated participants in their communities. This knowledge also prepares students for opportunities that arise after completing an undergraduate degree.  Traveling to other states and countries to pursue careers can lead to interactions with diverse groups of people. By learning about cultures that differ from their own, students can develop an appreciation for various traditions they may encounter. 

“(The event was) a diverse and welcoming celebration for all who wanted to experience Holi,” said Lasya Priya Vemalla, the Indian Association’s social media coordinator.

The Holi festival is one example of the cultural celebrations that the Indian Association hosts. In the past, they have held events for Dussehra, also known as Dashain and Diwali. These are festivals that celebrate aspects of Indian culture and religion. Ugadi and Gudi Padwa, a festival similar to New Year’s celebrations, is another event that has been recognized on campus. Promoting awareness of the multicultural presence at GVSU helps to create an environment where all students can feel safe, represented and uplifted.

The Last Lecture series was inspired by Randy Pausch, a Carnegie Mellon University professor, who gave a lecture in 2007 about his life after having been diagnosed with cancer. The events leading up to his speech were published in a book titled, “The Last Lecture.” At GVSU, the Student Senate’s spin on the concept involves selecting a professor from the University who has made a significant impact on the lives of their students. 

“The Last Lecture series aims to highlight and honor professors who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their students and academic community,” said Paris Lawson, Student Senate’s vice president. “It (the event) provides an opportunity for students to recognize a professor’s contributions, gain insight into their life and career journey and foster a deeper connection between faculty and students.”

Lawson added the event encourages meaningful reflections on both personal and professional growth, as well as the inspiration of students through a professor’s experiences and insights. Lawson noted that Copeland, who specializes in civil litigation, civil trials and personal injury areas of law, emphasized adaptability and persistence in this year’s speech.

“She (Copeland) emphasized that change is natural and beneficial, and that challenges, failures and setbacks often contribute to personal and professional development in more meaningful ways than successes,” Lawson said. “Her message encouraged resilience, adaptability and a willingness to embrace life’s uncertainties.”

According to event organizers, attendees were receptive to Copeland’s speech, as her lessons reinforced many values necessary to be a successful student. The ability to adapt to new situations and to remain dedicated when challenges arise are important traits to develop during the college experience. The aforementioned skills allow one to recognize and pursue academic and employment opportunities while also ensuring the preservation of one’s health, happiness and relationships.

Many professors at GVSU have made a positive impact on their students. Those who stand out take a personal interest in their students’ successes, adapt their curriculum and ensure a constructive classroom environment. Such professors are passionate about the material they teach and can spark a significant level of academic interest in their students. 

Professors are nominated each year to take part in the Last Lecture through an online form. Thereafter, the Student Senate takes on the responsibility of reading, discussing and organizing submissions for candidates and presenting their findings. 

“The final three nominees are presented to the (Student Senate) General Assembly for discussion and a vote to determine the selected speaker,” Lawson said. “A professor is considered to have made a ‘significant impact’ based on their dedication to student success, contributions to the University and the personal and academic influence they have had on students.”

After Copeland finished her lecture, students had the opportunity to ask questions and receive further insight from her experiences. Lawson and Karen Theakston, Student Senate’s Events chair, noted that many attendees were left inspired and reinvigorated to finish the winter semester to the best of their ability. 

“Throughout the lecture, students remained engaged, often laughing at her jokes,” said Theakston. “At the end of the lecture, many expressed their appreciation for her advice and approached her with further questions about legal studies and her experiences as a lawyer.”

While the club primarily appeals to students who major or minor in film and video production, the group’s variety of activities can attract participants from many academic backgrounds. Their collaborations with other campus organizations, such as the Scriptwriting Club, foster community among students, both socially and professionally. The dedicated group of filmmakers use meetings as an opportunity to hone their skill sets, hold discussions with peers and develop creative visions. 

“The film industry is very male-dominated,” noted Elena Chiu, the vice president of Women in Cinema. “We help others get to know each other, gain confidence (and) experience and just have fun talking about our love of film.”

According to Chiu, the club pivots between a variety of subjects and activities.

“We’ve done equipment demonstrations so members could have more hands-on experience with cameras, short film nights where we watch and then discuss films, board game nights and collaborative story writing exercises,” Chiu said. 

Chiu also explained that all members are able to lead meetings, as E-Board tries to rotate participation among those involved.

“Sometimes we’re teaching club members games, but other times we’re letting the members lead discussions,” said Chiu.

Group members’ support for women and nonbinary people in the film and video production industry extends outside of club meetings and events. Women in Cinema volunteers at the Grand Rapids Film Fest and with women-directed film viewings. Their Instagram account also posts local film-related events happening in the Grand Rapids area. 

Caitlyn Shaw, the group’s treasurer, drew attention to Women in Cinema’s alumni mentorship program, which assists members in gaining real-world experience from interacting with industry professionals.  

“Women in Cinema members have the opportunity to be paired with GVSU film and video alumni,” explained Shaw. “It’s really nice to be able to talk to someone who’s been in your shoes and have someone support you during the hard times and moments of self-doubt that can come with such a challenging and male-dominated field.”

Having access to resources and the ability to pursue useful opportunities can help equip students with the knowledge and hands-on involvement they need to reach their goals after graduation. Women in Cinema demonstrate the influence that forming long-lasting connections with peers and the local film community can have.

In D&D, players form small groups and work collaboratively to create characters who fulfill different roles within a fantasy setting. Characters are assigned many attributes and skills throughout multiple game sessions, which are also referred to campaigns. Campaigns are usually organized and moderated by a Dungeon Master (DM). DMs are responsible for inventing the plotlines and events that players will encounter. They also encourage players to think of solutions and actions their characters can take to overcome trials. 

Ethan Dibling, a sophomore at GVSU, explained that DMs are seen as a guide for players to follow.

“We (DMs) don’t stop you from doing things unless it completely breaks the reality of the game, but it very rarely reaches that point,” Dibling said. “You can think of a DM as a dam controlling the flow of water. We keep the story flowing at a rate at which it can be understood and interacted with.”

Rachel Miller, the group’s membership officer, feels that D&D and other role playing games are about creating a world of your own.

“D&D is one kind of tabletop, role playing game, which as a whole are games made collaboratively by a group of players,” said Miller. “(The players) follow a set of rules that allow for creative storytelling. The first time someone sits down to play D&D, they realize that anything is possible, and the game is a freeing space to experiment and have fun.”

The club was created at GVSU in 2020, and has been home to a steady group of core members, as well as a regular influx of new players. Sessions usually occur in multiple rooms of the Kirkhof Center, offering spacious conditions for the large number of campaigns that take place at the same time. This also lends itself to the collaborative nature of the game that allows unfamiliar participants to ask questions and get to know the other players. 

“D&D Club is an inclusive environment where anyone can come to hang out and play a cool game for a few hours,” Miller said. “We want everyone to have fun in community with each other, and introduce everyone to tabletop role playing through D&D.”

The group also has a strong online presence in order to better foster community among its members. According to Miller, the E-Board of D&D Club hosts a variety of events through Discord, in addition to during meetings. Miller noted the group runs mock auctions for magical items over Discord, and that they hosted a dice raffle for Valentine’s Day.

Through weekly meetings and online activities, D&D Club brings a unique angle to the structure of a student organization. The community of tabletop game enthusiasts has an appeal that many students find engaging and enjoyable. The group meets weekly from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Fridays.

At the Black Historical Living Museum event, students were greeted by the GVSU chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) upon entering Kirkhof Center’s Grand River Room. Those in attendance were able to learn about historical African American figures, as well as hear presentations given by historically Black fraternities and sororities.

Notable figures discussed during the event included Lionel Richie, Ethel Hedgemon Lyle, Michael Jordan, Shirley Chisholm, Huey P. Newton and Sandra Bland. Representatives from GVSU’s fraternities and sororities presented information about the figures and the role they played in both their fields and African American history as a whole. The museum’s interactive component kept participants engaged and interested in learning about the individuals discussed and the organizations that raised awareness of them.

Also known as the Divine 9, NPHC upholds the legacy of historically Black fraternities and sororities. Currently, Grand Valley State University has five active organizations that fall under this category– Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma and Sigma Gamma Rho, which were highlighted during the event. While each organization has its own individual outreach program, they are all united in their goals of developing the local community, encouraging education and fostering connection among college students.

Attendees were also provided with a “historical passport.”  Upon visiting each organization’s table, students got to check off boxes in their passports. Each organization chose a member they wished to highlight in the form of a presentation.

“The purpose of (the) event (was) to highlight and inform people on impactful African American figures who have made a difference in the Black community,” said Antonio Green, NPHC president at GVSU.

According to Green, the aforementioned fraternities and sororities were founded during racial segregation and provided spaces for Black students to develop leadership skills, foster lifelong bonds and engage in community service.

“Our NPHC organizations at Grand Valley have played a very pivotal role in enhancing student life, promoting diversity and encouraging academic and personal growth within the University community,” Green said.

Kaiya Smith, NPHC vice president at the University, said the council was inspired to host the event in an effort to educate students on Black History Month and historically Black fraternities and sororities. 

“This event came about because our council wanted to find a way to inform people on the importance of Black history and the significance of Divine 9 organizations,” Smith said. “We thought this would be a great way to do both in one (event).”

Black History Month focuses on recognizing the history and accomplishments of the African American community by encouraging students to educate themselves and foster both diversity and a sense of belonging. The Black Historical Living Museum and similar events aim to educate students on important figures and organizations that can develop multicultural awareness.

Two more events related to Black History Month are scheduled to take place throughout February at the University. Taste of Soul will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 19, and the Black Business Pop-Up will be held the following Wednesday, Feb. 26.

The event began with a reflection activity that was expanded into a small group discussion. These talks were held at tables placed throughout the room to facilitate a calm and safe atmosphere. After articulating often tense emotions regarding the Country’s current state, small group discussions were opened to the entire room. 

Schneider explained that giving participants time to individually reflect on prompts and become comfortable with one another helped create a broad conversation.

“While there were faculty facilitators at each table, it seemed like there were just as many participants as facilitators in the discussion,” said Schneider.

Perhamus feels many people are disheartened by the Country’s political divide, and thinks the discussion allowed students to navigate the waters of polarized opinions.

“It can feel difficult to see a path forward out of polarization,” Perhamus. “I think this event can show each of us that we are collectively capable of having a contentious conversation that remains constructive.” 

By discussing viewpoints held by people of varying backgrounds and political experiences, participants were able to expose themselves to different ways of thinking and were encouraged to form educated opinions. GVSU is home to students from across the country and around the world, making tolerance an important value to impart on members of the University’s community. 

“I hope people who (came) to this event feel heard, valued and part of the campus community,” Perhamus said. “I hope this conversation demonstrates to the GVSU community that we can have this conversation with one another. We can hold the tensions of our divergent views and remain committed to being curious about each other. When we are curious, we are open to learning and connecting.” 

Many students felt relieved to voice their opinions and ask questions about current events that continue to affect their everyday lives. Numerous questions were raised, which allowed participants to clear up misconceptions and become more informed on varying concepts.

“From the table conversations and the larger discussion, it was evident that the campus community needed an event like this to process where we are right now,” Schneider said. “I think it was a great first step in a needed dialogue.”

Following Post-Inaugural Reflections, the event’s hosts are considering the creation of future discussion-driven events that are open to all students, faculty and staff. By engaging in thought-provoking and constructive dialogue, critical thinking skills can be developed to navigate the current political climate. Collaboration between students and facilitators is a welcome opportunity for both connection and intellectual development.

Grand Valley State University’s Campus Activities Board (CAB) hosted the annual Presidents’ Ball on Friday, Jan. 31. The tradition, which has taken place since 1987, featured music, dancing, food and plenty of photo opportunities. This year’s dance took place at GLC Live at 20 Monroe and flaunted a disco theme.

On top of a full dance floor, the event boasted hors d’oeuvres, a dessert table, soft drinks and snacks that were available for purchase all night. The dance’s disco vibe was a welcome addition to the tradition that uplifted students’ mood and motivated attendees to get on the dance floor.

“Last year, it (the Presidents’ Ball) was at DeVos Place and this year it’s at GLC Live at 20 Monroe,” said Ava Cybulski, part of CAB’s Traditions Team, who helps plan event themes and decorations. “This is a huge change that (brought) a different vibe than last year, one that includes elegance and a party aesthetic.”

Andrew Cavrell, a GVSU senior, attended the Presidents’ Ball for the first time this year, and danced the night away with fellow students in celebration of his final semester.

“The venue had a really fun environment, the students brought a ton of energy and all of that was matched with amazing performances,” said Cavrell, highlighting special appearances from Ignite Dance Co and the Laker Dance Team.

According to Katie Garrett, the assistant director of programming in the Office of Student Life (OSL), CAB’s Leadership, Traditions and Advisors teams collaborated extensively to decide the event’s theme. Every year, CAB brainstorms how to implement new ideas, themes and accommodations to ensure that every student in attendance can enjoy the night to the fullest.

“The (Traditions Team) directors help advise and shape how the event appeals to current students and their interests,” Garrett said. “Due to the large-scale nature of this event, the advisors manage a lot of the communication with external vendors and campus partners.”

Garrett noted that OSL was a major supporter of the event, as they helped to promote, implement and enhance the overall experience of this event.

At the Presidents’ Ball, members of the Traditions Team could also be seen volunteering at activity stations, such as the photo booth and sensory-safe room. 

“This year, our sensory safe room (was) completely revamped,” Cybulski said. “Our goal (was) to make the Presidents Ball accessible to everyone.” 

In previous years, the occasion featured a combined dinner and award ceremony before the dancing commenced, which recognized recipients of the Presidential Appreciation Award, Student Award for Faculty Excellence and the Laker of the Year Award. However, this time, an emphasis was placed on fostering a more casual atmosphere for the event. CAB’s planning teams aimed to provide an easily accessible and fun-filled night for all students. 

“The structure (was) more free-flowing this year,” said Garrett. “Instead of a formal program, the main emphasis of the event (was) the dance. Students (were) able to enjoy time with their friends and the greater GVSU community.”

The combination of the change in venue, emphasis on accessibility and disco theme resulted in a fresh interpretation that entertained students and helped them form lasting memories with friends. 

Garrett explained that since GVSU is a younger institution, the University’s list of traditions is smaller than other schools’ repertoires. However, Garrett believes the Presidents’ Ball is one of the University’s longest-standing and beloved events.

“This event has always been to honor and bring together the campus community,” Garrett said. “As the tradition has continued over time, the event has evolved to meet the expectations and interests of the current student body. Our hopes remain the same as when it started, to bring together the GVSU community for a night of fun and to celebrate who we are as a community.”

Every year, leaders from a variety of disciplines and communities are invited by the University’s MLK executive planning committee to share their experiences with students, faculty and the greater Grand Rapids area. With speakers coming from diverse backgrounds, such as education, business ownership and activism, their goal is to educate and promote social justice initiatives.

“(The purpose of the MLK Commemoration Week is) to bring awareness and celebrate the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a legacy that continues to inspire and challenge us to dream bigger, do better and strive for justice,” said Bobby Springer, chair of the MLK executive planning committee.

Louis Moore, a member of the MLK Commemoration Week executive planning committee, stated that two committees are involved in planning the events. The first committee is part of a longstanding partnership with Davenport University and Grand Rapids Community College, in which a keynote speaker is selected based on a theme. According to Moore, this year’s theme was voting rights. The second committee works to organize the week’s events.

The keynote presentation by Latosha Brown was postponed until February. She is the co-founder of Black Voters Matter, an organization dedicated to increasing voter registration with a focus on African American communities. Her activism also extends to areas of feminism and philanthropy, and her work has been recognized in 23 countries.

“The GVSU community looks forward to this event (the keynote speech),” said Moore. “It is a time for campus and community members to reflect and reset in the spirit of King.”

The Silent March, normally held on the Allendale Campus, was also canceled. In past years, the event acted as a showcase of solidarity. Participants were able to connect while reflecting on King’s work and sacrifices.

Another speaking event, featuring Dar Mayweather, was also postponed. As a GVSU alumnus who graduated in both 2007 and 2009, his connection to the University allows for relevant insight into areas in which the institution could improve. Mayweather’s background in education lends itself to his work in coaching students to achieve their educational and professional endeavors. His presentation would have aimed to foster an environment of inclusion and heightened awareness of campus diversity.

The final speaker, Joe Jones, was able to give his presentation on leadership philosophy on Friday, Jan. 24. His experience as a previous Grand Rapids city commissioner and pastor gave him a range of experience to draw from. He is also the founder of the Hekima Group, a practice located in Grand Rapids that provides advice to professionals of varying backgrounds.

On Saturday, Jan. 25, students also had the opportunity to take part in the MLK Day of Service and Solidarity. The opportunity gave participants a chance to show their support for one another in a tangible way through service projects.

“The GVSU community has been profoundly impacted by this event (MLK Day of Service and Solidarity), as it provides students, faculty and staff with a chance to connect with local organizations, address pressing community needs and build stronger relationships with one another,” said Anees Mohammad, the Office of Student Life’s graduate assistant for civic engagement. “It fosters a culture of service and awareness, inspiring participants to continue engaging in meaningful action beyond this day.”

Despite the challenges the weather brought, the message that speakers, committee members and service project participants hope to convey remains, as they strive to uphold King’s legacy and ethics.