Family of murdered GV student files lawsuit against officers

The family of Rosemary Reilly, a Grand Valley State University student who was murdered in 2016, filed a federal lawsuit against a variety of law enforcement officers, including GVPD officers.

The lawsuit cites negligence on behalf of the police officers involved, who were informed that Reilly’s ex-boyfriend had expressed violent tendencies toward her that were “obvious and known by defendants.”

GVSU released an official statement regarding the lawsuit: 

“Grand Valley State University is not named in the lawsuit. It is a suit against Ottawa County and individually named law enforcement officers, two of whom were employed by Grand Valley. We believe our officers acted properly, and we will mount their defense.”

Legal proceedings surrounding the lawsuit are still unfolding. 

Stabenow and James participate in debate hosted by WGVU

WGVU hosted a debate between incumbent Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow and Republican Senate candidate John James Sunday, Oct. 14. The debate was aired publicly on WGVU-TV later that afternoon.

GVSU Vice President for University Relations Matt McLogan began the debate with opening remarks. Both candidates were then asked a variety of questions, ranging on subjects such as the economy, health care and education in Michigan. 

The debate is one of two that will be held this week. Stabenow and James will also debate at 12:35 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15 in Detroit. 

Student Advisory Board Applications Close Oct. 22

Students are invited to apply for a position on the Vice Provost of Student Affairs Student Advisory Board before the board’s Oct. 22 deadline.

The Student Advisory Board meets monthly to report about the student experience at GVSU directly to the Vice Provost of Student Affairs and Dean of Students. 

The board of 10 to 15 members heavily consists of students who do not have active campus student leadership. Any student (graduate or undergraduate) is eligible for the position. 

To apply, visit the Dean of Students’ website at gvsu.edu/dos. 

West Michigan Sustainable Business Hall of Fame welcomes GV director

During a reception Oct. 10, Executive Director of the Office of Sustainability Practices Norman Christopher was awarded a spot in the West Michigan Sustainable Business Hall of Fame.

Christopher was awarded the organization’s lifetime achievement award, which is dedicated to his lifetime of service in promoting sustainable business. 

The award was provided based on Christopher’s rich history in promoting sustainability through chaired positions and government service. Christopher also co-founded the Grand Rapids Community Sustainability Partnership, an organization that has been pushing for greater community-based sustainability in downtown Grand Rapids since its conception in 2005.