Locations: Library staff talk hidden studying gems
The first signs of fall arriving at Grand Valley State University were not only the changing leaves, but also the steady migration of students seeking the perfect place to study.
As a university designed with both collaboration and independence in mind, study spaces have become part of its culture. There are not simply desks and lounge chairs, but areas that can provide moments of reflection, connection with peers or scenic views. Some are well known, such as the atrium in the Mary Idema Pew Library, while others are tucked away in hidden corners.
Across campus, these study spaces shape the daily lives of both students and faculty alike. From cushioned window seats in the library to the retro, sunken lounge inside Seidman House, the following are some of the most distinct study spots GVSU has to offer.
To read more about student study spaces on campus, click here.
Yard Show embodies Black resilience following HBCU lockdowns
During the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Yard Show Sept. 13, the Divine Nine historically Black sororities and fraternities strolled, stepped and chanted in an energetic performance, serving as proof that cultural expression blooms and endures despite political turbulence.
Held at the Mary Idema Pew Library’s Amphitheater, the show drew an influx of students, alumni and faculty for one of the most culturally significant events of the semester. Chapters representing groups such as Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha and Kappa Alpha Psi took the stage, gathering to celebrate Black culture and showcasing the importance of the Divine Nine on campus. The event combined elements of tradition and entertainment, engaging the audience with the rich history of Black Greek-letter organizations.
The event came days after violent threats forced several prominent historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to enter lockdown, following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The performance was not in direct response to recent adversity, but rather to recognize and affirm identity, heritage and Black joy in times of political pressure. With the heightened unease of Black students following these threats, the show carried an added significance.
To read more about the NPHC Yard Show, click here.
Teach-In sessions explore challenging conversations
Grand Valley State University hosted its annual Teach-In Nov. 12-13, bringing together students, faculty and staff for two days of programming centered around the theme of ‘Power, Privilege and Critical Conversations.’
The event was designed as a cross-campus effort to bring together disciplines, confronting difficult issues and sparking change through plenaries, poster sessions and workshops. Since its inception in 2014, the Teach-In has focused on the belief that communities can learn better when members are willing to ask hard questions, listen across differences and reflect on institutional structures. This year’s theme built on that foundation by encouraging participants to examine how power and privilege operate within classrooms, communities and broader social systems.
The opening plenary framed the two-day event as an opportunity to critically examine whose voices are centered in academic spaces and how institutions can reinforce or challenge inequity. Presenters emphasized that the Teach-In is not a passive experience; it requires active engagement, openness to discomfort and a willingness to confront assumptions.
To read more about Teach-In 2025, click here.
Student, alumni artists at Laker Con encourage authenticity
From Sept. 26-28, the otherwise quiet Mary Idema Pew Library burst with life as students celebrated Grand Valley State University’s annual Laker Con.
Attendees of all ages participated in the comic convention’s events, including panel discussions, presentations and workshops. Artist booths took over first-floor study areas, replacing textbooks with zines, jewelry, posters and comics created by students and alumni. While attendees browsed the artist market, submitted votes for a cosplay contest and listened to panels, alumni also joined in, imparting knowledge to the current generation of Lakers.
For Veronica Schoemer, a 2021 alum, returning to Laker Con was not only about showcasing her work, but encouraging students to value their creative purpose. She commented on working in the animation industry, and stressed the importance of staying true to yourself rather than following trends that can strip art of its character.
To read more about Laker Con, click here.
