The 2023-2024 National Alumni Career Mobility (NACM) survey has revealed trends among Grand Valley State University alumni who graduated between 2013 and 2018. Most graduates surveyed felt their education was worth the cost of tuition, but said they worried about their ability to pay off student loan debt. Compared to other institutions, GVSU received higher scores in overall satisfaction and economic mobility from graduates. 

The NACM survey began in 2019 by the Career Leadership Collective and was acquired in 2023 by Lightcast, a labor market analytics company. The survey gathers information from alumni on their career satisfaction, economic mobility and community engagement, both five and 10 years post-graduation. For the most recent survey, 9,067 graduate responses were collected from 34 different institutions across the United States, 1,200 of which were connected to GVSU.

83% of NACM survey respondents from GVSU reported overall satisfaction with their education. However, many graduates identified feeling at odds with the cost of their education; 55% of respondents agreed their college degree was worth the cost of tuition, but 56% debated their capacity to pay off their accrued student loan debt. 

At GVSU, the annual cost of tuition varies from between $15,140 to $22,240. The average student loan debt for a bachelor’s degree in the United States is $30,000, with rates increasing each year.

Ashley Moubray, the vice president of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter at GVSU, said the precedent of student loan debt weighs just as heavily on her as the importance of education.

“GVSU does try to make (education) affordable through merit scholarships and other financial assistance programs, but to be honest, I don’t think it will ever be enough,” Moubray said. “When you think about how affordable college is in other countries, it really makes you stop and consider what it is that U.S. universities really care about.”

GVSU scored above the national average for economic mobility among first-generation students compared to NACM surveys of other university graduates, and also scored higher in overall education and career satisfaction than other institutions. GVSU will continue to collaborate with NACM to gather future data on graduates.

Alumni Relations Director Susan Proctor said the University uses the results to enhance educational practices and improve the overall university experience. 

“We (at GVSU) want to be your educational partner for life, and so hearing from our alums on how we’re doing that and how we can improve was the motivation (for the survey),” Proctor said.

As well as the cost of student loan debt, NACM survey results also indicated that equity gaps for historically marginalized populations were closely tied to respondents’ access to career preparation and institutional career investments. Respondents who identified as nonbinary, a first-generation students or African American showed lower Career Preparation (CP) scores, which measure an individual’s preparedness to launch a career after college. These groups also showed lower percentages of overall career satisfaction after graduation. Despite this, GVSU’s scores generally showed higher satisfaction and success rates among these populations compared to other schools.

“Institutions seeking socially-just outcomes should increase access to strategic influencers associated with Career Preparation and Institutional Career Investment, as well as ensure that student loan debt is manageable and able to be paid off within 10 years of graduation,” said Lightcast Survey Researcher Dr. Kimberly Yousey-Elsener, the author of the 2023-2024 report.

According to the University’s Career Center First Destination 2023 report, 71% of alumni become full-time employees post-graduation. Additionally, 85% of graduates were offered employment before they graduated. Overall, alumni agreed that their career status aligned with their intended goals, and expressed general satisfaction. 

“GVSU offers us every opportunity we need to prepare ourselves for the future, available to us even after graduation,” Moubray said. “But if we as students aren’t proactive for ourselves, then none of it really means anything.”

In its third year, the MI Future Educator Fellowship provides $10,000 scholarships to as many as 2,500 students currently enrolled in teaching programs. In addition, the MI Future Educator Stipend seeks to specifically help students with their financial burdens, awarding $9,600 to those in their student teaching semester. The stipend is renewable for students that consistently do well in their schooling.

Jason Cronkite, associate director of GVSU’s Office of Certification and Accreditation, broke down the $13.2 million total. 

“Since the start of the 2023-2024 academic year, GVSU future educators have been awarded 578 fellowships, totaling $4.2 million and 750 stipends, totaling $9 million,” Cronkite said. 

Cronkite said that not all education majors qualify for funding. Students must commit to teaching in Michigan after graduation to receive funds.

“The fellowship is renewable for up to three years, helping to reduce financial barriers as students prepare for careers in education,” Cronkite said. “To be eligible for the fellowship, students must meet specific criteria, including at least junior standing, maintaining a 3.0 GPA and committing to teach in Michigan after graduation.”

Daisy Fredericks, director of Teacher Education at GVSU, said the programs come from a place of forward progress. According to Fredericks, the “invisible” work of teaching deters some students from pursuing the profession altogether. Fredericks said that by making the profession easier to join, it may keep the ranks of teachers more populated with good candidates.

“Most people choose to become teachers because of their passion for working with people, and share their passion for the profession,” Fredericks said. “Teachers are deeply invested in building relationships and supporting their communities; they have a passion for learning and sharing their knowledge with others.”

Despite emphasizing passion for the profession, Fredericks mentioned that teachers can face a range of challenges.

“The more common challenges include limited time to do all the things required for the job, stress associated with the job and limited funding for school resources and teacher pay,” Fredericks said.

The University’s use of the fellowship and stipends aims to recognize the role of educators, and inspire students to pursue the profession. For some students, their passion for teaching is worth leaving behind past majors. GVSU student Nikolas Tompkins is one such individual.

“I had initially gone to college to study engineering,” Tompkins said. “It was a much higher paying field than education, but I found that I was more passionate about teaching.”

Tompkins said that if he’s eligible for financial support, he will happily apply. He is firm in his belief that he made the right career choice when switching into education.

“Educating our children is one of the most important things we can do to better our society,” Tompkins said. “Without good and qualified teachers, this (bettering society) cannot happen. Investing in our teachers ensures that our students are getting better education.”

Hofmeister is the senior vice president for strategy, sustainability and external affairs at Consumer Energy. Jason Trice, a GVSU alumnus, is the co-owner of Bedrock Apparel. Their shared background in business allows them to follow in Damstra and Wolters’ footsteps. Both Trice and Hofmeister will serve on the BOT for eight-year terms. Their terms can be renewed by Michigan’s governor if the trustee desires. 

Damstra, a GVSU graduate, served on the BOT for eight years total. Damstra also served as the chair of the Finance and Audit Committee for four years, and was instrumental in helping the University maintain economic stability during the COVID-19 pandemic. He currently serves on the Grand Valley University Foundation. Wolters served on the BOT for 20 years, making her the third longest-serving trustee in GVSU history. She represented the Board in different ways over the years, serving as the chair, vice chair and Title IX liaison.

The two new members will be expected to work toward meeting the goals of President Mantella’s Reach Higher 2025 strategic plan. They will also be involved in the development of the Blue Dot Lab, which is a modification of the Eberhard Center on GVSU’s Pew campus.

Stacie Behler, the BOT’s vice president and chief public affairs and communications officer, is excited that Hofmeister and Trice have been added to the team. Behler also said she appreciates the longtime support and dedication of Damstra and Wolters.

“(Wolters) strived to ensure the academic quality of a GVSU credential, and that students would have the best possible empowered educational experience,” Behler said. “Both Trustee Damstra and Wolters are incredible advocates for Grand Valley and have fostered relationships with alumni, donors and community partners that have strengthened GVSU.”

Behler spotlighted the Governor’s role in appointing members and ensuring the University is represented by quality individuals. 

“The entire Board of Trustees provides strategic leadership, policy development, academic integrity, quality and fiscal oversight,” Behler said. “The trustees are also some of our greatest allies in advocating for GVSU with the public, policy makers and other stakeholders.”

The BOT’s financial oversight capabilities make the group an extremely significant body in terms of the University’s future. The collaborative nature of the Board is such that it benefits greatly from the varied backgrounds of the appointed individuals.

Elizabeth Emmitt serves as the chair of the BOT. Emmitt said she is excited about Hofmeister and Trice’s future contributions.

“During this time of truly exciting growth and evolution for Grand Valley, Brandon and Jason’s experience and commitment to our mission are such valuable additions to our board,” Emmitt said. “GVSU is the flagship university of Michigan’s future, and community-minded leaders like Brandon and Jason help us continue our tradition of excellence, innovation and equitable access, as well as guide our future success.”

Due to the Board’s tasks and responsibilities, it is not unusual for Hofmeister and Trice to have backgrounds in business and economics. The current members have backgrounds in business, law, education, philanthropy and government.

Hofmeister is well-versed in law and government as well. He worked with former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm as an energy and climate policy advisor and deputy legal counsel. He is also a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, having earned degrees in government and law.

Hofmeister said he is excited to join GVSU’s BOT.

“GVSU is a pillar of higher education in Michigan, and will play a vital role in shaping the future of our state’s economy,” Hofmeister told GVNext. “As a recognized leader in innovation, sustainability and educational value, Grand Valley is well positioned to continue its role as a magnet for talented students and as a resource for employers in all sectors.”

Trice’s background as a business owner was substantial in his appointment to the University’s BOT.

When Trice graduated from GVSU in 2001, he was a wide receiver for the University’s football team. In 2017, he was inducted into GVSU’s Hall of Fame for his achievements during his three years as a student-athlete. Trice now owns Bedrock Apparel, a company he started in 2017 that has been growing ever since. 

“Joining the board and serving GVSU is an honor, representing a chance for me to give back to an institution that is close to my heart,” Trice told GVNext. “With many challenges facing higher education, I truly think Grand Valley is well positioned to be a leader in providing innovation for Michigan’s future and unparalleled opportunities for its students.”

The BOT can be a somewhat elusive group to many in the GVSU community, as far as responsibility and scope goes. However, Behler thinks it’s important that students and staff alike become familiar with the Board.

“The Board provides governance and oversight to ensure Grand Valley fulfills its mission effectively,” Behler said. “Ultimately, the trustees are strong advocates for GVSU, (and they) provide governance and oversight to ensure Grand Valley fulfills its mission effectively.”

Attendees decorated candles that they could place on an altar while local musician Darius Colquitt delivered a vocal performance. Afterward, speakers stepped forward to recite the names of the 48 transgender and gender non-conforming individuals that committed suicide or were killed in the United States since last year’s Trans Day of Remembrance.

This is the first year the total number has included suicide deaths, highlighting the tragic decision some transgender and gender non-conforming individuals have made in the face of threats to their autonomy, as well as physical violence against them.

“It doesn’t have to be someone physically harming somebody else,” said DL McKinney, the director of the LGBT Resource Center. “The torture that our community and our siblings go through when they’re just trying to live authentically as they are ends lives. People opt out of life because of that.”

Trans Day of Remembrance began in 1999 in honor of Rita Hester, an African American trans woman who was murdered in Boston in 1998. To this day, Black transgender women have been disproportionately affected by this epidemic of violence. A report from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation shows that in the last year, 75% of the reported cases of fatal violence against transgender and gender non-conforming individuals were people of color, and half of them were Black women. However, this statistic might actually be higher, as it is only reflective of formally reported cases. Cases often go unreported or misreported due to misgendering or discrimination that continues after the individual’s death.

“There’s so many lives that have been lost, but families are saying, ‘No, this person wasn’t trans. No, we’re going to deadname this person. (No), we’re going to make sure that no one knows their true identity,’” McKinney said. “We even have some families who may not even report (a death) as murder because they think their loved one deserved it.” 

Anti-trans violence continues to rise, perpetuated by the increasingly anti-trans climate seen in U.S. politics and culture. While the current political climate imposes an increased threat to the trans community, McKinney stressed that globally, the issue has always existed.

“Even before (the election), the risk of safety and autonomy to trans bodies has always been a fact,” McKinney said. “I mean, that has never changed. The names (of individuals that have died) that we read are going to be for the U.S., but worldwide, we’re talking about almost 400 lives lost (this year) just because someone is uncomfortable with somebody being themselves.” 

Speakers at the vigil emphasized that while it is a time of grieving, it is also time to uplift and empower those who have been lost, and to show strength as a community. Many attendees said they were extremely grateful for the event, and emphasized the importance of showing up as a united community against discrimination.

Lynn Formigoni, a volunteer at GRPC, said she has been witness to both good and bad moments in the trans community since she transitioned 10 years ago. Yet, Formigoni said she believes the transgender and gender non-conforming community is stronger than ever before.

“It means the world to me to see that this (the community formed at the vigil) happened, because I know our (trans) community is alive and thriving,” Formigoni said. “That’s what we really want to see, a community that can be self-sustaining, powerful and have a voice.” 

Another vigil attendee, GVSU alumni Robin Fox, was proud to see strong involvement in the event from the University and its community.

“As a GVSU alumni of 10 years, it’s really great to continue to see the LGBTQ inclusivity of our campus and events,” Fox said. 

McKinney emphasized that the LGBT Resource Center is available for any student in need of someone to talk to, as well as a variety of other resources.

“Our office will try to reach out as much as we can in different avenues,” McKinney said. “The more we talk, the more safety we’re gonna find.”

Bolden is a trailblazer for women, diversity and young people in governmental spaces. GVSU students, faculty and community have expressed they’re inspired by Bolden’s success, and many feel honored to be connected to such a figure through a shared educational environment. 

Before becoming a justice, Bolden earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology at GVSU in 2010, followed by a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. After becoming a member of the State Bar of Michigan, Justice Bolden practiced as a criminal defense attorney, served as a judicial law clerk in Wayne County’s Third Circuit Court and practiced as a civil litigation attorney. Bolden joined the Michigan Legislature in 2019 as a state representative to the 35th district, where she focused her work on criminal justice reform and creating bipartisan legislation to protect survivors of sexual violence.

Following the retirement of Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack, Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Bolden to the State’s Supreme Court in 2023. Her success on the ballot has been a beacon for young people to enact change. 

Justice Bolden was unavailable for a personal interview, however Bolden and her team provided a statement and press release to The Lanthorn.

“Her (Justice Bolden’s) election victory marks a significant milestone for the state’s judiciary, as she is currently the youngest member and the first Black woman to serve on the Court,” stated the press release. “This remarkable milestone is highlighted by fundraising successes, as Bolden secured the highest amount of individual contributions by a Michigan Supreme Court candidate without self-funding in over 25 years, totaling $1,909,334 by 4,936 individual donors.” 

GVSU student Chloe Schram said Bolden’s reelection “provides a sense of hope for so many communities,” following national election results which she found both disappointing and upsetting.

“Black women, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, anyone with a uterus and so many more will be affected negatively from the result of this presidential election,” Schram said. “Seeing that Michigan (re)elected Bolden is a great step toward giving representation to those the country has so often pushed aside, despite their impressive contributions. I hope that Bolden’s (re)election provides the hope for us all that I know women, especially Black women, can (be successful).”

Bolden said she hopes her work will provide lasting impacts in Michigan. She is “deeply honored” that Michigan residents have put her in a position to continue serving, and looks forward to upholding accountability and ensuring accessible justice. 

“This election affirms my commitment to delivering justice that resonates across generations,” Bolden said in the statement. “The decisions we make today will shape the future of our communities for years to come. I am dedicated to ensuring that justice is accessible and equitable for all. I look forward to the work ahead, where together, we will uphold the values of fairness and equality for everyone.” 

Even as a justice, Bolden still participates in the GVSU community. In 2023, she gave the keynote address for the 20th anniversary of EqualiTEA, an event organized by the Gayle R. Davis Center for Women and Gender Equity. She was recently recognized for her accomplishments by her alma mater, receiving the 2024 “Distinguished Alumni Award” from GVSU. The University’s Alumni Relations’ website states that Bolden also volunteers as a GVSU Southeast Michigan Ambassador. 

Other accomplishments in her career include receiving awards such as the 2021 Michigan Credit Union League’s “Legislator of the Year Award,” Detroit NAACP’s 2023 “Ida B. Wells Freedom and Justice Award,” Michigan Chronicle’s “2023 Woman of the Year Award” and the 2023 Crain’s Detroit “40 under 40 Award.” 

Bolden’s term on the Michigan Supreme Court will run through 2028. 

“Bolden will serve for four more years before she will be required to seek reelection for a full eight-year term,” stated the press release. “During that time, she will continue to participate in pivotal cases that affect the lives of Michigan residents, ranging from criminal justice reform to civil liberties and beyond.” 

Homecoming centers the GVSU community, and many events such as the alumni tailgate and marching band performance welcome past graduates. As part of the festivities, several alumni-owned businesses were promoted and were advertised as offering discounts, specialties and Laker-themed menus.

Ale Trail, which took place Monday, Oct. 28 through Sunday, Nov. 3, showcased multiple alumni-owned breweries throughout West Michigan.

Lost Art Brewhouse was a location on the Ale Trail, and is owned by GVSU alumnus Brad Lawrence and his co-owner Mike Smith. Lawrence attended GVSU in 2001, but took a break to pursue a career as a professional musician. He later returned and graduated with a political science degree in 2013.

Lawrence and Smith have been best friends since kindergarten, and started their brewery business during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Lawrence said he is “extremely passionate about the craft beer industry.” He said that after creating home brews for nearly 10 years, he knew he wanted to open his own brewery. 

“I knew that I wanted to have my own business, and felt like my partner Mike and I had something special to bring to West Michigan,” Lawrence said. “We opened in the summer of 2020, so things weren’t ideal, but we worked really hard and were supported by our incredible community to still be here and growing today.”

Lawrence said he will always cherish his memories of being a student at GVSU.

“Some of my favorite memories from my time at GVSU are just wandering around campus with my friends,” Lawrence said. “It’s so beautiful and there is so much to see and do. When I was younger, it felt like every time we left our dorms we could find a new adventure.”

Alumnus Dean Jeffery, co-owner of Good Judy’s Market & Juice Bar, shared a similar sentiment after Laker Remote Work Day.

The event took place on Thursday, Oct. 31, and was hosted by the GVSU Alumni Relations Office.

Good Judy’s and the Chartreuse Sisters cafe opened their businesses as a space for GVSU alumni and campus community members to work remotely. They also offered GVSU and Halloween-themed menu items.

Jeffery attended GVSU from 2007 to 2011. He studied in the University’s liberal arts program and had a focus on business and sustainability. Jeffery said his degree helped guide him and his partner Connor to start the business.

Jeffery said he wanted to participate in GVSU’s Homecoming week as a way to reconnect with the University.

“I was a nontraditional student living off campus and working full time, so I didn’t get to dive into the full college experience like I wanted,” Jeffery said. “This is my way of reconnecting and being more involved with the University now.”

Good Judy’s website states that over 75% of their suppliers are founded by women, people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Jeffrey said representation is an important part of his business. 

“We work with local farmers and make it a priority to partner with minority-owned farms,” Jeffery said. “About 90% of the brands in our ‘market’ are also minority-owned, showcasing unique, better-for-you products that often only exist online or in big cities. Since we couldn’t get to them, we figured, why not bring them to us?”

Through Good Judy’s Juice Bar, Jeffery hopes to further connect with current students and provide a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.

“When I was at GVSU, I didn’t see any queer-owned business leaders around or much representation in the media, so we had to carve our own way,” Jeffrey said. “Now, I want students and alumni to not only know that we’re here, but to see us as a place to connect, collaborate, find mentorship and always feel safe.”

Like Lawrence, Jeffrey said the people he met during his time at GVSU made a big impact on him. He said he is grateful to celebrate Homecoming once again with GVSU.

“I honestly lost count of how many times I ended up in tears from laughing so hard on those bus rides from the downtown campus to Allendale,” Jeffrey said. “I met some incredible people, many of whom are still my closest friends today, and for that, I’m beyond grateful.”

Stuhlreyer said he knew when he started college that he wanted to work with his hands and create, but he didn’t initially know where that would lead him. He began his studies at GVSU as an engineering major working on skateboards, and on a whim, chose an elective course in jewelry. He took 3-D Design (ART 151) with GVSU Professor Renne Zettle-Sterling, and quickly discovered a hidden talent for making jewelry. Stuhlreyer then switched to the BFA program in Studio Arts with an emphasis on Jewelry and Metalsmithing.

Zettle-Sterling mentored Stuhlreyer, providing him with the resources he needed to become a skilled jeweler. After seeing his potential, Zettle-Sterling encouraged Stuhlreyer to switch majors, and pursue a career as a bench jeweler. Zettle-Sterling attributes Stuhlreyer’s success to strong hand-eye coordination and a burning curiosity to understand how artwork is made. Stuhlreyer began making jewelry as gifts to his mother and girlfriend, which further deepened his passion for the craft.

“Everyone around him (Stuhlreyer) enjoyed his company,” Zettle-Sterling said. “(He) really made the class a better place to be.” 

Stuhlreyer said that during his time in the course, Zettle-Sterling was committed to uplifting students, going above and beyond to support them in their education. He recalled a time during the COVID-19 pandemic when he had been sick, and could not attend class. He called Zettle-Sterling with concerns about falling behind on an important class project. Zettle-Sterling took it upon herself to drive to Stuhlreyer’s home and deliver the necessary materials for him to complete the project.

“She (Zettle-Sterling) genuinely cared about each student,” Stuhlreyer said. “She’s going to do what she needs to do to make sure you succeed.”

After graduating from GVSU, Stuhlreyer came across an apprenticeship program on the Tiffany & Co. website on the last day for applicants to apply. He quickly put together a resume and sent it in. After his application had been accepted, he did a series of interviews, including an in-person interview, where he had to fly to New York City. Before Stuhlreyer could secure the apprenticeship, he had to pass a bench test, in which jewelers prove their abilities. Stuhlreyer said although he was nervous, he drew from the teachings of Zettle-Sterling and his practice at GVSU, and was able to pass. 

Stuhlreyer is currently working at a Tiffany & Co. facility in Cumberland, Rhode Island, where he collaborates with some of the world’s finest silversmiths. The apprenticeship involves Stuhlreyer making and repairing jewelry as a bench jeweler. The facility where Stuhlreyer works is responsible for producing important awards like the NFL’s Vince Lombardi Trophy and the U.S. Open Cup for Major League Soccer. It is also where Tiffany & Co.’s iconic silver bowls are made, which are famous for their Audubon patterns. 

“You never stop learning in jewelry,” Stuhlreyer said. “It’s (the craft of jewelry making) just kind of an endless (rotation) of new people that are going to teach you something.”

Stuhlreyer said that after graduation, he’s stayed in touch with Zettle-Sterling, and keeps her updated on his career progress.

“With fine jewelry, the ability to create something amazing is endless,” Struhlreyer told GVNext.

The rowing team was created in 1964 as GVSU’s very first competitive sport. Since its establishment, the team has won an array of championships, and ranks among the best rowing teams in the country.

Brendan Butterfield, the treasurer of the rowing team, said the celebration had an incredible turnout. 

“The sixtieth (anniversary) was an amazing event for alumni and supporters of the program,” Butterfield said. “There were (alumni) from all the decades before us in attendance.”

Butterfield has been rowing for eight years. He started rowing in high school, and then joined GVSU’s team as a freshman. Butterfield said rowing allowed him to form a community, and was a significant reason he decided to attend the University.

“As a freshman right after the pandemic, the rowing team was an instant in for someone looking to make friends,” Butterfield said. “Many of our athletes meet some of their best friends rowing and many athletes live together. Personally, rowing has given me a way to detox from the stress associated with classes.” 

Another member of the rowing team, Reece Thurston, said rowing builds community.

“The rowing team has allowed me to meet many new people, and feel a sense of belonging here at GVSU,” Thurston said. “Some of my best friends are on the team, and attending practice gives me something to look forward to every single day.”

Elements of teamwork and friendship have played an essential role throughout the team’s history. Rowing alumnus Trevor Robert said he not only met a close group of friends, but also his life partner through the sport. 

Robert started rowing at GVSU as a sophomore in 2018, but his time on the team was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His future wife played on the women’s rowing team at the time, and the two met on a team camping trip. Robert and his wife recently celebrated their wedding.

“I thought she was cute (and) kinda fun,” Robert said. “(I) started talking to her and the rest is history. In (our) wedding, two of my groomsmen were from the rowing team. (The team’s) comradery existed because we were pushing ourselves to the limits and it was really nice to know that they all had your back.”

Thurston said the connection between team members makes rowing stand apart from other club sports at GVSU.

“It’s unlike any other sport out there,” Thurston said. “When you’re rowing in a boat with seven other girls, you have to pull as hard as you can not only for yourself, but for the girls in front and behind you. One rower can’t individually make the boat go faster, you must rely on the group as a whole.”

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 Back’s students, this practical experience comes in different forms. Back said he is an advocate of student involvement in learning.

“I try to keep my experience in mind, so I can encourage students to take advantage of those practical hands-on opportunities,” Back said. “I’m the biggest advocate for on-campus programs.”

GVSU has over 400 student organizations that undergraduates can be involved in. As Back described, each organization has opportunities for students to gain experience in their field and move one step closer to a career. 

Networking within the GVSU community also contributes to students’ retention to Michigan. 

“I am also very involved given the relationships that I’ve developed over the years that help students obtain internships and job opportunities upon graduation,” Back said. 

Many GVSU professors like Back help their students find internships or on-the-job experiences, which may also factor into graduating seniors’ decision to stay in Michigan. 

A LinkedIn post by GVSU’s College of Computing Dean Marouane Kessentini acknowledges a team of alumni that are dedicated to work in West Michigan, and provide opportunities for Laker graduates.

“Brian McKeiver and Mark Schmidt, founders of the successful digital company BizStream, are leading by example,” said Kessentini. “Half of their employees are fellow GVSU graduates, showcasing the impact of University alumni in job creation and economic development. Their commitment to giving back and supporting the community in West Michigan is truly inspiring,”

However, for some out-of-state GVSU students, post-graduation plans look different. 

GVSU senior Sara Tripi is originally from Illinois, and will be graduating in May 2025.

“I don’t want to live in Michigan after I graduate because moving back home will save me money on rent and groceries, and I like being close to my family,” Tripi said. “Although I enjoy being in Michigan because I’m close to my college friends and Grand Rapids has lots of opportunities, saving money is more important to me.” 

While some opt to return to their home states, due to the large number of graduates that choose to plant their roots in Michigan, GVSU solidifies itself as a key player in driving the future of Michigan. With strong support from professors, hands-on opportunities and a thriving alumni network, GVSU certainly encourages students to stay local. The University’s contributions to Michigan’s job market is a testament to its commitment to student success and the state’s growth.

The triathlon consisted of a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike race and a 5-kilometer foot race. Hammer started the race in eighth place during the swimming portion of the triathlon, but climbed to first place during the cycling section. He held onto the lead as he entered the running portion of the race, staying neck and neck with Brazil’s Ronan Cordeiro. With the American flag draped over his shoulders and his wife and children looking on from the sidelines, Hammer crossed the finish line, securing his first Olympic medal. Cordeiro came in second place, just 17 seconds behind Hammer. 

Hammer placed fourth in the previous two Paralympic games held in Tokyo and Brazil. In an interview with the World Triathlon, Hammer attributed his motivation to win in Paris to his prior fourth-place finishes.

“Fourth is painful, (but) it keeps you in the sport,” said Hammer. “It was all part of the journey that led me here. I will look back on those fourth places fondly now.” 

Hammer was a student athlete at GVSU from 2004 to 2008. During his time at the University, Hammer became a Track and Field Hall of Famer, received five All-American honors and took GVSU to nine cross-country titles. He was also awarded the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletics Conference (GLIAC) Commissioner’s Award for demonstrating academic and sports excellence. 

After graduating from GVSU, Hammer coached the women’s triathlon at Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia. In 2022, he left coaching to pursue a full-time career as a Paralympian. Hammer made his debut at the London Paratriathlon, finishing the men’s 1,500-meter race in ninth place.

According to Britannica, the Paralympic Games are “a major international sports competition for athletes with disabilities.” The Paralympic Games feature many of the same events as the Olympics, but some of the equipment is modified to accommodate the athletes’ needs. Hammer was born with one hand, but that never stopped him from being able to play sports. From a young age, Hammer began taking an interest in sports, primarily basketball, ice hockey and long-distance running. 

“Growing up, hockey was my favorite sport, being from Michigan, but I was comparably a much better runner,” said Hammer. “I loved to compete, so as I raced, the more I fell in love with it.”

In an interview with the National Collegiate Athletics Association, Hammer thanked GVSU for teaching him the “elite athlete mindset,” which he attributes to his success. 

Dakota Francoeur is the intramural sports coordinator with Recreation and Wellness, a department in the Division of Student Affairs at GVSU. As a result of initiatives like the University’s adaptive intramural sports program, every athlete has the chance to thrive and succeed on an equal playing field. Francoeur said adaptive intramural sports are “recreational athletic activities that are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, but are open to able-bodied individuals as well.” 

“Individuals with disabilities face so many challenges every day, some that able-bodied people would never even be able to consider,” said Francoeur. “Chris Hammer is an excellent example of what it means to overcome those challenges.”

Francoeur said student athletes can learn from Hammer’s athletic accomplishments and his perseverance. 

“If there is anything to take away from Chris Hammer’s story as a student-athlete, it would be to have resilience and determination when facing those tough challenges,” Francoeur said. “Embrace them, as overcoming every challenge will broaden your perspectives and experiences and encourage your personal growth.”