Happy Ash Wednesday GVSU Community, 

As we continue through this season marked by fasting, reflection, and spiritual preparation, we want to honor and recognize the Lenten season that many Christian students, faculty, and staff will begin observing. For many Christians, the forty-day season of Lent recalls the solemn period of time leading up to Jesus' death and eventual resurrection, celebrated on Easter Sunday. Beginning today, Lent can be marked by various practices such as prayer, penitence, acts of service, and sometimes fasting or abstaining from certain foods or material comforts. 

During this sacred season, it is important for us to recognize these observances within the GVSU community. Here are a few key dates and practices for those observing Lent:

• Ash Wednesday: The beginning of Lent, marked by the imposition of ashes as a sign of penitence. 
• Palm Sunday: The start of Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem. 
• Maundy Thursday: Focuses on humility, service, and the Last Supper. 
• Good Friday: A solemn day remembering Jesus's death.

Resources:

• Explore the Multifaith Calendar noting many religious or spiritual holidays. 
• Review the Interfaith Dietary Considerations, specifically the information on fasting. 
• Connect with the Kaufman Interfaith Institute.

In our message honoring Ramadan last week, we listed several ways we can all engage with and support those who may be fasting, and these reign true for all holidays and communities where fasting is practiced. We appreciate you all helping to make GVSU an inclusive, respectful, and supportive place for all members of our community, especially as we recognize and honor the Lenten season. 

Sincerely,

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

Kyle Kooyers 
Director of Operations 
Kaufman Interfaith Institute

[Sent March 5, 2025]

Dear GVSU Faculty, Staff, and Students, 

Happy Women’s History Month! March is a time to honor the extraordinary women who have shaped Grand Valley’s rich history while continuing to influence the world beyond our campus. At GVSU, we are proud of the leadership, scholarship, and service of the women who have helped define our institution. Their contributions have strengthened our community and continue to inspire future generations of students, faculty, and staff. 

While we have witnessed great strides toward gender equity, we recognize that the journey toward full equity is ongoing. Achieving true justice requires collective and ongoing effort. This month—and every day—we commit to standing together, supporting one another, and working toward a future where all women can thrive. 

Notable Dates and Campus Events: 

• March 8 – International Women’s Day 
• March 11 – Talk Back Tuesdays: Global Perspectives on Gender Justice 
• March 13, 14 – Build Feminist Futures Symposium 2025 
• March 18 – EqualiTEA 
• March 25 – Equal Pay Day

The GVSU Women’s Commission, whose mission is to promote gender equity and support the advancement of women at GVSU, has compiled critical dates, events, and further resources as it relates to Women’s History Month. Additionally, GVSU’s Gayle R. Davis Center for Women and Gender Equity plays a key role in providing support and advocacy for women within our community. 

As we celebrate the many women who have made GVSU the institution it is today, let’s also acknowledge the incredible women who continue to break barriers, challenge norms, and shape the future for us all. Their efforts remind us of the importance of creating spaces where everyone can thrive. 

In Solidarity,

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

[Sent March 3, 2025]

Happy Friday Faculty, Staff, and Students, 

As we approach the beginning of Ramadan, taking place this evening, we take this opportunity to honor and recognize the significance of this sacred month for our Muslim community members. Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, reflection, prayer, and community. During Ramadan, most Muslims fast from pre-dawn to sunset, abstaining from both food and water. This fast is broken each evening with a meal called iftar (fast breaking meal). 

The Kaufman Interfaith Institute and the Muslim Students Association (MSA) are committed to providing support and resources for our community members during this important time.  

Support & Resources:

• MSA Iftars: The Muslim Students Association is hosting a series of iftars or fast-breaking meals that are open to the entire GVSU community, taking place on March 11, March 18, and March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in Kirkhof 2263. RSVP on LakerLink if you plan to attend. 
• Interfaith Reflection Rooms: There are Interfaith Reflection Rooms located on the Allendale Campus, Pew Campus, and Health Campus, each equipped with a prayer rug for your use. 
• Laker Food Co. Offerings: During Ramadan, Laker Food Co. is offering vegetarian protein packs at the Lobby Shop, Kleiner POD and Connection POD, vegan and vegetarian options around campus, and more dietary options. The Connection and The Dish (along with their POD stores) are open until midnight for students to grab food after breaking their fast. Additionally, to-go meal options will be available to eat when you’re ready. Review all Ramadan dining options.

Here are a few ways you can engage with and support students and colleagues in our community who may be fasting:

• Be mindful of fasting and prayer times: If you have a class or meeting that takes place around sunset, colleagues and/or students will need to break their fast and pray at sunset. Making an announcement at the beginning of your gathering that folks are welcome to leave as needed can help create a welcoming environment. 
• Check in with your colleagues and students: Ramadan and other seasons of fasting can be both physically and mentally challenging, so it’s a kind gesture to ask how they’re doing during this time. 
• Be considerate, but not over-cautious: You don’t need to refrain from eating around someone who is fasting, but it’s always respectful to ask them what they prefer. 
• Respect privacy: If someone is not fasting, avoid asking personal or invasive questions. There are a variety of reasons why someone may not be fasting, and it is up to each individual whether they wish to share that information.

Let’s come together as a community to support and celebrate Ramadan, showing respect and understanding to our Muslim students, faculty, and staff. If you need additional support during this time, please contact Liz English ([email protected]), campus program manager, or Zahabia Ahmed-Usmani ([email protected]), youth program manager and MSA advisor. 

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment at GVSU. We wish you peace and blessings during this holy month of Ramadan. 

Warmly,

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

Kyle Kooyers 
Director of Operations 
Kaufman Interfaith Institute

[Sent February 28, 2025]

Dear Students and Colleagues,

In compliance with recent updates to federal regulations and other guidance from the federal government, Grand Valley State University has updated its Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Misconduct and the related procedures. These documents replace all prior policies and procedures and apply to all open cases based on guidance from the Department of Education.

We encourage all students and colleagues to review the policy and procedures in full to familiarize themselves with their rights and obligations as Lakers. The following list of changes is not exhaustive, but represents a summary of the most significant changes you should be aware of:

• Informal resolution of alleged policy violations, such as through an educational conversation, accepted responsibility, or an alternative resolution mechanism, is now a possible method of resolution for employee Respondents. This does not include cases where the Complainant is a student and the allegations include sexual harassment, discrimination on the basis of sex, or sexual misconduct.
• Complainants must now submit Formal Complaints using the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX’s Complaint Form. Formal Complaints are written and signed requests to initiate an investigation or other appropriate resolution procedures and are different than reports. Reports represent any other notice to GVSU of an allegation or concern and provide an opportunity to receive more information, resources, and supportive measures.
• The decision-maker(s) in the formal resolution process may no longer rely on any statement from any individual who is unwilling to submit to cross examination at the live hearing during the formal resolution process.
• GVSU no longer has jurisdiction to handle alleged policy violations through its grievance process if the conduct did not occur against a person in the United States.

We understand that many members of our community have additional questions about the university’s response to federal action and its impact on GVSU. We are continuing to monitor the situation alongside our colleagues and will share ongoing updates and relevant resources here as they are available. Meanwhile, please rest assured that Grand Valley State University remains committed to our shared values and our shared equity leadership.

Sincerely,

Kathleen VanderVeen, Ph.D.
Associate Vice President and Title IX Coordinator
People, Equity and Culture Division

Robert Shorty, Ph.D.
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

[Sent: February 21, 2025]

Dear GVSU Community,

As we enter Black History Month, we invite you to join our university community in celebrating the rich history, accomplishments, and countless contributions of Black people throughout our nation and here at Grand Valley State University.

It’s a time to celebrate the diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences that enrich our community and make GVSU a vibrant place to learn and grow. This month also provides a special opportunity to reflect on the remarkable achievements and perseverance of Black individuals in the face of adversity and acknowledge the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

In these uncertain times, it's more important than ever to reaffirm our commitment to our shared values and equity leadership, which calls us to take action toward building a more inclusive and connected society.

We encourage our entire GVSU community—students, faculty, and staff—to join us in this celebration. Participate in the various events and activities planned across our campuses, engage in meaningful dialogue, learn from diverse perspectives, and celebrate the resilience and achievements of Black people throughout history and within our own community.

Here are a few events to mark on your calendar:

• February 7: The Blackout: Black Student Organization Showcase
• February 11: Live Museum, presented by the GVSU National Pan-Hellenic Council
• February 19: Taste of Soul
• February 26: Black Business Pop-Up, presented by the Black Excellence 365 program and the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation

For more details and other events on how you can get involved, visit the Black History Month Celebration page and check out the resources provided by our Office of Multicultural Affairs.

Let us take this time to reflect and celebrate the profound impact of Black history on our nation. As US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke eloquently reminds us, "We must never forget that Black History is American History. The achievements of African Americans have contributed to our nation's greatness." In this spirit, let us face history with courage, learn from the past, and work together to build a more just and equitable future for all.

In Solidarity,

Robert Shorty
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

[Sent: January 31, 2025]

Dear University Community,

With the Lunar New Year beginning today, January 29, we extend our warmest wishes to all who celebrate this joyous occasion. We hope this new year brings you health, happiness, and prosperity. Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a time for new beginnings, family togetherness, and honoring cultural traditions. It's a time to reflect on the past year and look ahead with hope and optimism.

This holiday holds deep significance for many Asian cultures, and we are proud to acknowledge and honor its importance within our diverse university community. At Grand Valley State University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all cultures are respected and celebrated.

As we celebrate Lunar New Year, let us also remember the importance of unity and compassion. By supporting one another, we are stronger and can create a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

Lunar New Year offers a beautiful reminder of several important values. Just as spring brings new life, this time of renewal encourages us all to embrace new opportunities and strive for personal and academic growth. Like the families who gather in celebration, we are reminded of the strength we find in our university community and the importance of the connections. Finally, Lunar New Year highlights the richness of diverse cultures and traditions, reinforcing our belief that learning from one another enriches our entire community. We are stronger together! 

We encourage you to take this opportunity to learn more about Lunar New Year, this year marking the Year of the (Wood) Snake, and the diverse cultures that celebrate it. May this new year be filled with joy, success, and meaningful connections for all.

Sincerely,

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

[Sent January 28, 2025]

Dear Grand Valley community,

In April 2024, a group of BIPOC students came together to voice concerns regarding issues impacting students of color at Grand Valley. We had the opportunity to share our experiences and insights with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) during a town hall, and as a result, we collectively launched several task forces dedicated to addressing these challenges.

Over the summer, students, faculty, staff, and SLT worked collaboratively to identify solutions and develop recommendations to improve the experience for students of color. The task forces and their goals are available online.

We are excited to share that we are currently in the process of implementing these recommendations across campus. Our goal is to continue creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for BIPOC students and to ensure lasting change on campus.

To streamline work and improve accountability, we're evolving existing teams and shifting responsibility to our Black Student Union (BSU) and Division of People, Equity, and Culture (PEC). This collaborative approach empowers BSU and PEC to work with faculty, staff, and students to ensure a more accountable university community with greater transparency and clearer communication.

As we move forward with these efforts, we welcome you to engage with us. You can share questions, ideas, or feedback through this BIPOC Task Force feedback form. We deeply appreciate the contributions of our student colleagues, faculty, staff, SLT, and mentors alike who have supported this work and continue to do so. Together, we can ensure that progress is sustained for future generations of students. 

Looking Ahead
What do we want to continue?
We are committed to amplifying student voices and maintaining representation for years to come, ensuring that BIPOC students have a platform in various spaces across campus. 

How will we continue the work of the task forces?
We will continue to table, attend organizational meetings, speak at events, and advocate for current and future recommendations. Our mission will remain at the forefront of our work in the semesters ahead.

Where will the recommendation work live?
The responsibility for overseeing and holding accountable the implementation of recommendations will rest with GVSU’s Black Student Union and the Division of People, Equity, and Culture.

Who will be managing the recommendations?
Each recommendation will be managed by the task force and/or parties most relevant to its implementation, ensuring the work is done thoughtfully and effectively.

We are grateful for your ongoing partnership and are hopeful for what lies ahead. Thank you for your support as we continue striving for positive change for students at GVSU.

Sincerely,

Amaris Beal, Abdul Ciise, Antonio Green, Breezy Rusher, Kaiya Smith
Student Task Force Leads

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

[Sent January 28, 2025]

Happy Friday Colleagues,

We are writing to acknowledge the issuance of new executive orders and to note that we are working to assess their potential impact on our Grand Valley State University community. We understand that these executive actions may cause concern and uncertainty, and we want to assure you that we are closely monitoring developments and will take appropriate action to comply with applicable law.

More importantly, we want to emphasize that our commitment to our shared values and shared equity leadership remains unwavering. We will continue to support all members of our community – including students, faculty, staff, and administration – and uphold our values that are central to GVSU's mission.

Grand Valley is dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive. We will keep you informed as we navigate these or other changes in federal law and policy.

We look forward to a successful semester and continued collaboration in advancing our shared goals.

Sincerely,

Robert Shorty, PhD
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer

Jessica Weare
General Counsel

[Sent January 24, 2025]