Dr. Nygil Likely is the esteemed Vice President for People, Culture and Equity here at Grand Rapids Community College. With a person-centered approach paired with a devotion to systemic revitalization, Dr. Likely is committed to fostering a campus wide culture that aligns with GRCC’s mission, vision, and values of representing and enriching equity, inclusivity, and belonging.
The Division of People, Culture & Equity functions as a driver of communal support in diversity and nurturing the growth of staff and faculty. This is achieved through staff education and development, our use of affinity groups, support and guidance through institutional policies, and more.
Dr. Likely brings over 24 years of higher education and non-profit experience to Grand Rapids Community College. Prior to joining GRCC, Dr. Likely served as the Chief Diversity Officer at Calvin University. Dr. Likely also championed the advancement of Lake Michigan College as their Vice President of Student Affairs. As a previous Director of College Access, Dr. Likely ensured the ease and bridging of college access to students at Calvin College. Other significant roles held by Dr. Likely includes, Director of Student Services and Associate Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management.
Dr. Nygil Likely holds a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Learning with an emphasis in Higher Education, a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Adult Education and Training, a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Management. Dr. Likely brings an invaluable wealth of knowledge, research, and practice into Grand Rapids Community College.
Degrees and Certifications
- Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Learning with an emphasis in Higher Education
- Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Adult Education and Training
- Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management
- Bachelor of Science in Management
