Hello GVSU Retirees,

We wanted to acknowledge that it's been far too long since we've been in contact with you. A few years ago, retiree newsletters were sent on a quarterly basis and we'd like to develop a regular cadence for this again.

Going forward, we will be working to revamp the overall experience for you as GVSU retirees, beginning with communication efforts. Starting this month, we are planning to send a newsletter every other month with the next one being sent in July.

With that being said, we need your help! We are seeking your feedback on what improvements and communication you would like to see from us. Please complete the following 4-question survey below to provide your insight. 

Thank you for your time and understanding.

Since our last communication, Human Resources has undergone a number of transformations, including the formation of our Strategic HR Business Partner Team in February 2022. All GVSU faculty and staff members are assigned to an HR Business Partner to be their one-stop-shop for all employment needs, and that includes you!

Jaime Guzior is your assigned point of contact for any questions or inquiries you have regarding retirement, benefits, or the university. You can contact Jaime by emailing GVRetiree@gvsu.edu.

Have you signed up for the GVSU Retiree Directory yet? Stay connected with fellow retirees and the broader Grand Valley community be registering for the directory using your most up-to-date contact information. 

Reach Higher 2025 serves to call the entire Grand Valley State University community to join together in our shared mission and vision. In April, GVSU organized an interactive exhibition-style event, the Reach Higher Showcase, on Pew Campus to elevate 140+ of GVSU's innovative projects.

Grand Valley transitioned to Workday, a new enterprise system this January. With Workday, GVSU employees can easily manage payroll, scheduling, onboarding and time tracking functions, and more.

The Fieldhouse Arena court has been named in honor of former GVSU President Emeritus Thomas J. Haas. Read more about the court dedication.

After 31 years, wrestling returns as a varsity sport to Grand Valley, along with a new facility. Read more about the return of Laker wrestling.

Roger Ellis, professor emeritus of theater, died April 13, 2024. He was 80 years old.

Ellis joined Grand Valley's faculty in 1975 after working as an actor and director in California. He earned a doctoral degree in theater at the University of California, Berkeley.

Michelle Duram, retired academic office coordinator for history, died March 26. She was 67.

Duram worked for Grand Valley for 34 years, retiring in 2020. In 2012, Duram received the Unsung Hero Award from the Women's Commission.

Roelof Bijkerk, professor emeritus of psychology, died March 9, 2024. He was 95.

Bijkerk began working at Grand Valley in 1969 and served as department chair and faculty governance leader. He gave the keynote address at the university's first convocation in 1977. Bijkerk retired in 1994.