Gov. Rick Snyder appointed two new members to the Grand Valley State University Board of Trustees on Jan. 21.

David Hooker and John Kennedy will join the board. Hooker succeeds Lucille Taylor and Kennedy succeeds Dorothy Johnson, whose terms expired – the new members’ terms will last through Dec. 31, 2018.

Former Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s original appointments were rejected by the Senate, leaving two open positions for Snyder to fill for the new year.

“I am pleased with Governor Snyder’s appointments of Mr. Hooker and Mr. Kennedy,” said President Thomas J. Haas. “I am looking forward in working with them, and will seek their insights and guidance as we serve the needs of our students and our state. They are replacing Trustee Johnson and Trustee Taylor who served with distinction during their time on the Board.”

Hooker, who is currently the president and CEO of the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, is the son of two former trustees, Robert and Judith Hooker.

GVSU’s Pew Campus’ Kennedy Hall of Engineering is named after Snyder’s other high-profile pick, who is the president and CEO of Autocam and co-chaired the $2.1 million WGVU-TV capital campaign in the early 1990s.

In a statement released by Kate Pew Wolters, chairwoman of GVSU’s Board of Trustees, she offered her support for the new board members.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with our two new board members,” she said. “David brings business and non-profit expertise to the table, as well as a family history of support. John’s personal philanthropy, connections in the community, and expertise in manufacturing and business are also welcome additions.”

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