GV opens segment of Grand River Greenway

Last week, Grand Valley State University unveiled its section of the Grand River Greenway, which is a mile-long segment from 42nd Avenue and Pierce Street. The full greenway extends 36 miles and connects Grand Rapids and Grand Haven.

The greenway was first discussed in 1987 to protect land and provide access to natural areas as well as connect communities. Since then, 9,000 acres have been protected along the Grand River and will eventually be connected by the Idema Explorers Trail. 

President Philomena Mantella said that the Grand River Greenway will be a resource for students moving forward.

“Part of what attracted me and many of our students to our great university is the beauty of our campuses, and the settings along the Grand River are a part of that incredible beauty,” Mantella said. “This trail system will eventually connect our campuses and be used by thousands of our students and student athletes for training, education and recreation.”

Holland Campus to see renovations

The Frederick Meijer Campus in Holland, opened in 1998, is composed of only one building. It has 12 classrooms, two conference rooms, three labs and 11 offices. University officials have plans to renovate the campus.

The campus has catered to both adult and commuter students for over 20 years, offering a variety of evening, hybrid and online courses. They also offer a handful of master’s degree courses.

GV celebrates Founders Day

Founders Day was celebrated Friday, Oct. 25 to remember the 300 people who helped donate to establish GVSU. On this date in 1960, the school was chartered by the State of Michigan after $1 million was raised to establish it.

Events were planned last week to recognize the founders, including placing flags around both Allendale and Pew campuses and a campus-wide giving day to raise money for first-generation college students. On Saturday, Oct. 26, a GVSU Through the Years luncheon was held at the Alumni House, where son of founder Dick Gillett spoke.

GV named Green College

GVSU has been named a Green College by The Princeton Review for the tenth year in a row and was included in “The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges.” The review selects universities that demonstrate notable attempts at sustainability through its actions and initiatives. Since the first issue was published in 2010, GVSU has been included in every issue.