Dear Grand Valley Community, 
 
As we settle into the fall semester, our campus is full of the energy and promise of a new academic year. At the same time, I know many in our community will continue to carry sadness, anger and deep concern following the disturbing allegations involving an individual employed at our Children’s Enrichment Center this past summer.

Today, authorities announced criminal charges related to those allegations. I know these charges and the related revelations may renew pain and uncertainty for the children and families most directly affected, as well as for others across our community.

Our first priority continues to be providing care. We remain deeply committed to supporting the children and families affected, providing resources to members of our community who need them, and cooperating fully with law enforcement as the criminal process moves forward to assure justice is served.

With charges now filed, the most authoritative information about these allegations and the criminal case will appropriately come through the Ottawa County prosecutor and the law enforcement agencies responsible for the criminal investigation. Our priority is to recognize and support the integrity of the criminal process, and the privacy and well-being of those affected. This requires us not to speculate or get ahead of those officials charged with pursuing the facts and justice.

I ask each of us to approach the days ahead with particular sensitivity. As these events have unfolded, I have seen members of our community reach toward one another with compassion and care. That matters. We cannot undo the harm or distress experienced by those affected, but we can support those who need us, respect the criminal process, and remain a community that turns toward one another rather than away.

For students, the University Counseling Center (UCC) can be reached at 616-331-3266 or through the UCC website. The Care Team in the Dean of Students Office is also available to our students. Faculty and staff can access free mental health resources through our Employee Assistance Program. Additional resources for our GVSU community are available on the Resources page.

There may be further developments, and should there be information that is appropriate and important for the university to communicate, we will do so.

Thank you for the care you continue to show one another and especially to the children and families of the Children’s Enrichment Center. I remain deeply grateful for the compassion of this community.

Sincerely, 

Philomena Mantella