Laker Guardian app hosts logo design contest

In an effort to increase the utilization of Grand Valley State University’s “Laker Guardian” app, Grand Valley Police Department is running a logo design contest open to all current GVSU students.

“This contest will allow our students to showcase their talents — not only for those going into visual arts and media, but those students who design or draw as a hobby,” said GVPD Sgt. William O’Donnell.

Along with providing students with a chance to expand their portfolio, GVPD’s ultimate goal is to maximize utilization of the Laker Guardian app, which allows students to text or call police at any time, or can provide a virtual “buddy” while you walk alone. The contest ends Friday, March 15, and the winner will be announced a week later on March 22. Entry guidelines are as follows can be found on the GVPD website.

All submissions and any questions should be sent to [email protected].

Gov. Whitmer echoes Haas’ message for higher education support

During her first State of the State Address Feb. 12, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made comments that support of local colleges and universities is vital for promoting growth. Whitmer followed those remarks with the proposal of a new scholarship for high school students to achieve higher education. 

The message mirrors a co-written letter published in “Crain’s Detroit Business” nearly a year ago that features voices from Grand Valley State University President Thomas Haas alongside presidents from Ferris State University and Western Michigan University. Following Michigan failing to be the home of Amazon’s second headquarters, the presidents spoke about promoting education.

“Education is a public good,” the presidents wrote. “The states with the highest percentage of college graduates (…) are the most prosperous. The states with the fewest college graduates (…) are the poorest. It’s as simple as that.”

Provost’s office accepting applications for student advisory board

The Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students (VPDoS) is inviting any enrolled student — undergraduate or graduate — to apply to be a member of the 2019-2020 Vice Provost Student Advisory Board (VSAB). 

The board will provide feedback and advice directly to the VPDoS about the student experience at Grand Valley State University. 

Students on the board will meet monthly throughout the academic year to discuss topics facing the institution and of importance to students. Special Projects Coordinator for Student Success and Retention Liz Chase said the board’s perspectives will help the VPDoS consider ways the Division of Student Services can better serve students. 

Applications open Feb. 18 and close March 15. For more information or to apply, visit gvsu.edu/dos/sab.