Dear Colleagues,

We’re pleased to share an update to our academic terminology that reflects our continued efforts to promote clarity, consistency, and shared understanding across the university.

After consultation with a range of campus partners, including faculty governance, Grand Valley State University has renamed the Spring/Summer Semester to the Summer Semester. You will start to see this change implemented before the end of the Winter semester.

This change helps streamline how we refer to our academic calendar and ensures greater consistency across systems, communications, and student-facing materials. Using one clear and standardized semester name will reduce confusion, support smoother coordination across units, and provide a more seamless experience for students, faculty, and staff.

You will begin seeing the updated Summer Semester terminology in Banner, Workday Student, and future institutional communications. We appreciate your partnership in adopting this language and helping ensure a smooth transition.

Thank you for your continued collaboration as we refine our systems and processes in support of students, faculty, and staff.

Sincerely,