March 8, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Start at GRCC and go anywhere! Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC – or Grand Rapids Junior College – gave them the education and opportunity to be successful. We’re sharing some of those stories, and want to hear yours!
Ruth Straayer-Kelly has had many careers in her life: teacher, community organizer, Grand Rapids city commissioner. She credits what was then Grand Rapids Junior College with building a foundation for all those roles, by allowing her to explore different interests and introducing her to new perspectives.
“At GRCC, I was exposed to fellow students from a large variety of backgrounds and perspectives,” she said.
She majored in political science at GRJC in the mid-1970s, but through electives, she explored music, art and other subjects.
“Electives such as music appreciation, bowling and ceramics helped me make friends and develop skills I’ve used outside of employment,” Straayer-Kelly said. “A large clay pot from an art class still resides with me and brings back pleasant memories of my time at GRCC.”
Straayer-Kelly went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in political and social sciences from Aquinas College, a certificate in Montessori education and a master’s in educational technology from Grand Valley State University.
She taught in Grand Rapids Public Schools’ Montessori program and middle school English and social studies classes from 1987 through 2008. Work as a community organizer during the 1980s inspired her to run for a seat on the City Commission. In 2010, she was elected to represent the 2nd Ward. She stepped down from that role in 2019, but she continues to be involved in organizing efforts for political campaigns and initiatives.
She has also added “mom of an alum” to her GRCC ties: One of her sons graduated from the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education.
“Affordability goes beyond finances,” Straayer-Kelly said. “A community college like GRCC also affords the opportunity to explore options before choosing a major field of study and the ease of transferring an associate degree to a college or a university to continue your studies.”
Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply.
And tell us your story here: grcc.edu/communications/shareyourgrccstory