One unique factor about Grand Valley State University is its sense of community. Rather than having separate departments and functions, we prefer to work in a collaborative way, an idea that is very different from the majority of public universities. Though most of the examples that come to mind regarding cooperation are business related, this idea of community partnership can also be applied to extracurricular opportunities.

This year, Spotlight Productions has decided to combine its financial resources to present one big-name artist to the university, replacing the previously semiannual concert. The Lanthorn commends the members of Spotlight Productions for this idea and thinks this is a great use of somewhat limited resources. A larger, well-known artist will attract many students and will also draw in the surrounding community.

Although some students may see this as a disappointment because they’re losing a homecoming show, there are some significant benefits to changing up the yearly event schedule.

Large-scale events like this will make our campus a more desirable and attractive campus. Being seen as a venue for popular music and events is another thing we can add to the large repertoire of GVSU’s capabilities. Students from other campuses might find something to enjoy about GVSU, as well. 

Additionally, this is great experience for students involved with the concert planning process. Being able to add working with a large celebrity event to a resume is a great opportunity for any GVSU student. This also allows for another example of community engagement. For safety reasons, this brings campus security into the mix as well as extra planning on Spotlight Production’s behalf.

Having a big headliner will, ultimately, draw in a large majority of the campus community. On the financial side of things, this can be a huge benefit for GVSU. If not only students contribute money for discounted tickets, but interested community members also pay for entrance, this creates a self-sufficient profit for Spotlight Productions without having to dip into additional funding from the university.

By becoming more involved with events and supporting student-run programs, organizations such as Spotlight Productions can continue to create experiences that make being a Laker memorable. Traditions such as the annual concert at GVSU have become a staple for students and community members, we would like to think that this larger-scale performance will bring more students together to simply have a good time outside the stresses of the classroom. 

While it was originally an unfortunate moment for Spotlight Productions when its event budget was slashed by $10,000, the members of the student organization have made smart decisions in how to best serve the Laker community with their remaining resources.

Though the artist has yet to be announced for the spring concert, the Lanthorn is hopeful the smart decision made by Spotlight Productions to consolidate the concerts into one big event is indicative of good decision making that will bring a big hit to GVSU this spring.