News from Grand Valley State University

Articles by Matthew Makowski

Holocaust survivor's memoir supports endowment, educates students

Joseph Stevens survived World War II, despite facing great odds, with his wit, deception tactics, and luck. He successfully evaded Hitler's presence in Europe by concealing his Jewish identity while working at various jobs, and eventually sabotaging Nazi missions with the Polish resistance. His memoir, "Good Morning: A Life Story of Courage and Survival in the Face of Nazi Aggression" supports the Joe Stevens Freedom Endowment, which funds lectures related to human rights and freedom.

May 3, 2017


National student advertising team wins mega-district competition

A collective of 19 students, known as the GVSU National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC) team, recently took first place in an advertising campaign competition hosted by the American Advertising Federation on April 21. The team will compete in a semi-final competition on May 4.

Apr 28, 2017


Orchestra concert to feature concerto competition winners

Elizabeth Boyce, a senior violist majoring in music, and Lindsay Myers, a senior saxophonist majoring in music education, will perform during the Grand Valley State University Symphony Orchestra's annual Orchestra in the Atrium concert April 15. The performance will take place at 7 p.m. in the Atrium of the Mary Idema Pew Library.

Apr 12, 2017


Grand Valley announces Design Thinking Academy

The Design Thinking Academy will help students become innovative thinkers and problem solvers who are able to make lasting impacts in the world by utilizing the design thinking process. The deadline for applications is May 5 and the academy, which will begin in fall 2017, is open to all Grand Valley undergraduate students, regardless of major.

Apr 7, 2017


High school students learn value of theater studies, careers during workshops

Grand Valley faculty and students recently spent March 31 teaching local high school students about the value of an arts education, and career opportunities in the field of theater during High School Theater Day.

Apr 4, 2017


Faculty and students working to remove rattlesnake species from endangered list

There are almost 20 species of snakes that are native to Michigan, but the eastern massasauga rattlesnake is the only venomous one. Due to snake fungal disease, the species slithered its way onto the U.S. Endangered Species List in September 2016. Jennifer Moore, professor of biology, and a team of students have been conducting ongoing research in an effort to save the species.

Apr 3, 2017


Lecture to examine vocal health and anatomy

Rachael Gates, visiting professor of voice and pedagogy at Grand Valley and singing health specialist, will debunk vocal myths and discuss strategies for maintaining and improving vocal health.

Mar 30, 2017


Internationally acclaimed pianist to perform during honorary recital

Boris Slutsky's recital is supported by the William C. Baum Endowment Fund at Grand Valley. The fund was established in 1998 to support professor emeritus William Baum's two great passions: politics and classical music. The annual series features either a special speaker on issues in American law or a recital by a noted pianist.

Mar 29, 2017


Alumnus named new director of Regional Math and Science Center

Kristofer Pachla, '08 and '09, brings to the university a vast and varied background working in both K-12 and higher education. He is currently completing his doctoral degree in education policy and STEM teacher professional development from George Mason University. Pachla also serves as an adjunct professor of physics at Grand Valley. He will begin his role on April 17.

Mar 27, 2017


Lecture to examine the racialization of religion in America

Simran Jeet Singh, assistant professor of religion at Trinity University and senior religion fellow with the Sikh Coalition, will present the annual Rabbi Philip Sigal Memorial Lecture on March 30. The presentation will take place from 7-8:30 p.m. in Loosemore Auditorium. This event is LIB 100 and 201 approved for students.

Mar 23, 2017