Dear Faculty and Staff,

 

At Grand Valley, we celebrate the richness of our diverse community through meaningful recognition of traditions, cultures, and personal milestones. These celebrations, and your daily dedication in classrooms, labs, offices, and throughout our campuses, define the spirit of care, excellence, and belonging that makes our Laker community so special.

 

In recent years, many of you have expressed interest in having the flexibility to observe a day that holds personal significance, whether to honor a cultural or religious tradition, support a cause, or simply rest and reflect. We’ve heard you.

 

That’s why, beginning July 1, 2025, all eligible faculty and staff will be granted one paid day off per calendar year, called “Laker Day, My Way.” This day is yours to use in a way that is most meaningful to you:

“Laker Day, My Way” can be requested through the university’s regular time-off approval process. As with other time-off requests, we ask that it be submitted and approved in advance to support planning and continuity. You can find more information about this new benefit on the People, Equity, and Culture website. 

 

This new initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to well-being, inclusion, and respect for the individuality of every Laker. By honoring what matters to each of us, we strengthen the bonds that unite us as a community. Thank you for all you do.

 

With appreciation,

 

Philomena V. Mantella

President

 

Robert Shorty

Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture

Chief People and Inclusion & Equity Officer