Oct. 10, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Like many alumni, Kaitlyn Bergman has special memories of GRCC – but hers also happen to be part of the college’s history.
Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful.
Bergman was a member of GRCC’s 2012 volleyball team, which capped its season with the National Junior College Athletic Association championship.
“Winning a national championship will always be a great memory,” she said. “From the sweat and tears poured into each practice and game, all the way ‘til the final championship.
“However, after we won was probably the best memory. All the families and players gathered and we looked back at memories and just enjoyed everyone’s company while celebrating such an amazing season.”
Bergman, then known as Kaitlyn Wolters, was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, recording 32 assists and seven kills in the final match. She was also named a First Team All-American and the NJCAA Division II Player of the Year.
After graduating in 2012, she attended Grand Valley State University, where she majored in recreational therapy and continued with volleyball.
Bergman now makes her home in Warsaw, Ind., working as a recreational therapist with FLOW Recreation. She and her husband, Mark Bergman, have a 5-month-old daughter, Jordyn.
And she still plays volleyball, competing in high-level coed tournaments and weekly leagues.
She says GRCC was the important first step that led her to where she is today.
“GRCC helped prepare me in my leadership skills and overall independence,” she said. “It taught me time management, planning and organization. It was a great first step into adulthood without being too overwhelming.
“GRCC is a place that prepares you in ways that you never thought you’d need.”
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