The Laker Family Network is a resource of the Division of Student Affairs of Grand Valley State University.
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Thank you for continuing your strong support for our students, as we step into this new year, we’re filled with excitement about the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can make 2025 a year full of growth, connection, and achievement.

The year has certainly gotten off to a chilly start and for some students, the winter months can feel especially challenging due to the lack of sunlight and outdoor activities. If you sense that your student may be struggling, the Division of Student Affairs put together a helpful list of 6 ways to beat the winter blues. Their team, including the University Counseling Center, is available to help.

We are committed to not just teaching your learners the skills they need to pursue their dreams, we also empower them to become global citizens who contribute to their communities and engage in democratic processes. This core value drives a wealth of opportunities for students to connect with others and make a positive impact. From participating in service days, to taking part in student government, to organizing or supporting charitable events, your student has numerous chances to foster meaningful connections and engage with dynamic communities.

And even though this semester just started, it’s never too early to look ahead to summer and the variety of opportunities for students to expand their horizons! Whether it's securing an internship to gain hands-on experience, exploring new cultures through a study abroad program, or getting involved in community service, summer at GVSU is packed with ways to learn, grow, and make lasting memories. Encourage your student to talk to their advisors in their college or visit the Career Center or Study Abroad to start planning now—summer will be here before we know it!

Thank you for your unwavering support in 2024. Let’s make 2025 even brighter together!

Philly

Philomena V. Mantella, President
Grand Valley State University

Happy new year! I hope that you and your students had a restful holiday break and that your Lakers are ready to dive into this new semester. We are here to support your students as they navigate their college experience, and we will do everything we can to help them continue to grow and thrive…both inside and outside of the classroom. 

Nearly 1500 students attended Winter Campus Life Night on Sunday, January 12, where 156 student organizations and 30 campus departments and local businesses engaged with students and connected them with clubs and fellow Lakers that share their passions and interests. Being involved on campus significantly enhances a student’s college experience by providing opportunities for personal growth, and skill development, including organizational and decision-making skills, while service projects may offer hands-on learning related to a student’s field of interest. These experiences can help clarify career goals, and enrich their educational journey.

Participation in student organizations, leadership roles, volunteer roles all help students build important transferable skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving, which can supplement their academic learning and make them more competitive in the job market. Involvement also fosters a sense of belonging and connection to the campus community, promoting overall well-being. 

We have many ways to get involved and several events planned for our Lakers this semester including the annual Presidents’ Ball, Sibs and Kids Weekend (keep scrolling to read about this below!), and more. Feel free to check out the GVSU events calendar for additional information. We’re excited for what this semester will bring!

Anchor up!

Aaron Haight, Ed.D.
Associate Vice President for Student Engagement and Dean of Students

Wellness

The Center for Health and Well-being has big plans for students this semester! Stay up to date with our EatWell Series each month, free monthly STI testing, as well as resources including victim/survivor advocacy, free wellness goodies, and safer sex supplies. It’s never too late to encourage your student to look out for their health.

If your student is health-conscious or you have any reason for concern, we encourage you to talk with them about their mental health and share with them the wealth of resources available through the University Counseling Center. You can find information about services, self-help materials, mental health screening tools, online peer support, and other resources on their website. There is no time like the present to set a goal and commit to a healthy, happy year!

Tell your Laker: Qdoba is coming to Kirkhof! There will be a soft opening on Jan. 21 and a grand opening celebration on Jan. 28 with free food, fun, and giveaways! Students can enter to win an Apple Watch, tortilla blanket, and more. 

As a reminder for the new semester, if your student lives on South Campus, Meal Plans DO NOT automatically renew unless you selected both semesters at your initial purchase. Students can sign up for Winter Meal Plans any time! If your student had a Dining Dollar balance from Fall it will roll over to the Winter semester and be added to their new semester balance. Dining Dollars must be spent by April 19, 2025. 

Financial Aid

Winter semester classes are in full swing. Students should have their bill paid or on their deferment plan by now, and they can log in to their myBanner account to view their ebill. For payment details, visit gvsu.edu/studentaccounts/.

The FAFSA for the 2025-2026 academic year is open! If you or your student give consent, FAFSA has the ability to pull in information directly from the IRS. The FAFSA Priority Deadline is March 1, so make sure to get this submitted before that date to maximize financial aid for next academic year.

Our online scholarship database, myScholarships, is ready for your student to apply for over 500 scholarship opportunities for the 2025-2026 year. Set aside time with your student to file the FAFSA and explore myScholarships to maximize financial aid for the next academic year. 

Other Important Dates, Events, and Resources

Sibs & Kids Weekend is almost here and this year's theme is Camp Louie! Registration is open for students, faculty, and staff for $10 per kid or sibling. There are additional options including a limited-time Camp Louie t-shirt, which is available for pre-order until Jan. 20, and the option to purchase meals from Laker Food Co. Your student can get sibs, kids, and other loved ones registered NOW for a weekend of family fun!

But wait, there’s more! The GVSU Laker Store will have a 20% off sale on all plush items that weekend! Available in-store only at the Allendale location on Feb. 21-22 until supplies last. 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Recess: Jan. 20 

Spring Break: March 2-9

Exams: April 19-26

Commencement: April 25 and 26

Academic Calendar

Events Calendar