Every year, one senior at Grand Valley State University is awarded the Kenneth R. Venderbush Student Leadership Award.

Venderbush came to GVSU in 1969 as an associate professor and acting dean of the William James College. He was also the vice president of student affairs from 1969-1973.

Since 1983, the award has been presented in honor and memory of Venderbush and his concern for student affairs.

“He was an advocate of leadership and believed that participation should be used as a tool for learning,” said Sue Willemsen, administrative assistant in the Dean of Students Office.

The Dean of Students Office is accepting nominations up until Feb. 7 at 5 p.m.

Candidates for the award must be of senior status and enrolled in classes for either the fall or winter semester. They should demonstrate a significant contribution to student life through volunteer work, committee involvement, student organization leadership, residence hall leadership or athletic leadership or participation. They must also be in good academic standing.

Finalists will be interviewed in March by a committee of faculty and staff selected by the dean of students. The award will be presented at the Annual Awards Celebration on Monday, April 7.

To nominate someone, students and faculty can visit www.gvsu.edu/dos. The form is located under the awards and ceremonies tab. Nominations should be sent to the office in a sealed envelope marked “confidential” and indicate that the nomination is for the Kenneth R. Venderbush Award.

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