Counseling Center psychologist dies

Grand Valley State University regrets to inform that Mary Jo Thiel, a psychologist in the University Counseling Center, died at the age of 60 on Feb. 25.

Thiel joined GVSU as a staff psychologist and research coordinator in 1997. In 2004, she moved on to create her own successful private practice.

In addition to her work in counseling, Thiel is remembered for her generosity to charities supporting both animal and human life.

Celebrating Women Awards hands out honors

The Women’s Commission honored individuals who are making a positive impact on the lives of women during the Celebrating Women Awards ceremony on March 29.

Notable honorees include Emerging Professional Award-winner Allison Montaie, assistant director of the Women’s Center; Women’s Community Impact Award-winner Cara Ocobock, assistant professor of biomedical sciences; and Unsung Hero Award-winner Doris Penn, project coordinator for the registrar’s office.

Grand Valley State University students Ariana Jordan, Penni Kimble and Jaedah Pickens were recognized for their commitment to gender justice with the Outstanding Student Award.

In the same night, the campus organization Positive Black Women awarded four scholarships to Deandreah Hollowell, Odell McFarland IV, Shaniya Stevenson and Emnet Woldemicael.

Spoken-word poets to give performance on gender inequality

Two spoken-word poets will visit Grand Valley State University to perform an interactive show that teaches about feminism and gender inequality on April 4.

Performers Megan Falley and Olivia Gatwood will use humor and poetry to talk about topics such as street harassment, body image, rape culture and more. Falley and Gatwood will also host the workshop, “Consent isn’t sexy: It’s mandatory,” directly following the show.

“Speak Like a Girl” is LIB 100-approved and will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Mary Idema Pew Library Multipurpose Room.

For additional information about the event, contact Maddie Rhoades at [email protected].

Fashion show to highlight professional outfits

As summer quickly approaches, more students are interviewing with possible employers and internship recruiters. Career services will help such students dress for success when it hosts a fashion show on April 5.

Students will learn what to wear to a professional interview or networking event through a fashion show featuring interview-approved clothing. The event will also give students the chance to win fun prizes and professional attire.

“Dress for Success” will take place from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. in Room 2204 of the Kirkhof Center, located on Grand Valley State University’s Allendale Campus.

Webinar will teach strategies on promoting business online

The Michigan Small Business Development Center will host a webinar on how to effectively promote small business online on April 5.

In the webinar, participants will learn about website design and effectiveness, traditional versus electronic marketing tools, marketing communication strategies and more.

“Get Your Business Online” is free to the public and will take place from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at West Shore Community College.