Grand Valley State University’s annual “Last Lecture” was held on Tuesday, March 11 in the Loutit Lecture Halls. The event, which was organized by the Student Senate, spotlighted Adrian Copeland, a professor in the University’s School of Criminology, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies. In her speech, she integrated her journey of becoming a lawyer and experience practicing law in Grand Rapids, emphasizing the importance of growth and experimenting with new opportunities.
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.”
