Grand Rapids Community College’s student food pantry received a boost this week from a coalition of community groups as part of a day of service in commemoration of the life of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.   The Theta Chi Omega chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority invited community members to donate food to the GRCC pantry, partnering with the Black Impact Collaborative, Spectrum Health African Americans for Resources and Engagement, and Rent A Man moving company. The result was a moving van full of food and other supplies. The donations were timely -- restocking the pantry after a month of increased need that followed a second wave of COVID-19 cases, which forced many employers to close or reduce hours. Shannon Wilson, a sorority member who organized the event, said the project grew from a desire to provide an act of service, “in honor of the life and legacy of the man who has inspired us all.”  “The college is providing the education, and, as your community, we wanted to support your efforts by making sure that none of your students go without food, or necessities for survival,” she said. Partners spread the word about the event, and collected food and materials during a drive-through event. Donations completely filled a moving truck.  “Simply put: The event was phenomenal,” Wilson said. “All those involved were thrilled with the outcome, and just so humbled to be a part of such a worthwhile cause! We know and understand, just like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. did, the importance of education. He was once quoted as saying ‘I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education, and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality, and freedom for their spirits.’” Wilson said Rent A Man, a moving company, supplied the truck and two staffers. The Black Impact Collaborative provided volunteers and helped spread the word about the initiative.  Spectrum Health’s African American Resource Group promoted the collection to 30,000 spectrum Health employees. “I’m full of gratitude,” said Lina Blair, director of GRCC’s Office of Student Life. “What a wonderful way to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.! West Michigan is a caring community, and people have responded to the needs of our students. So many have struggled during the pandemic, and generous support such as this helps them continue their education and care for their families.”  GRCC students and their families have received more than 2,000 packages of groceries from the pantry since March, and nearly 500 meals in the fall semester alone. Donations also included hygiene products, cleaning supplies, baby supplies and pet food. Organizations that have provided food or resources include Heart of West Michigan United Way, Kent County, Michigan government, GRCC Student Alliance, GRCC Campus Dining, the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, Feeding America West Michigan, Plainsong Farm, the Grand Rapids Children's Museum, I Support the Girls, and others. Student Life has created an Amazon Wish List for additional donations. Financial support can be provided through the Grand Rapids Community College Foundation’s online donation page. Select "Student Food Pantry" or "Student Emergency Fund" from the drop-down menu under "Designation.” Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college – and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.

Jan. 19, 2021 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. --  Students in Grand Rapids Community College’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education are preparing for a changing industry with the Heritage Restaurant’s new takeout menu. The Heritage, a fine dining restaurant staffed by GRCC culinary students, is offering baked goods and entire meals on Tuesdays through Thursdays through Feb. 18. Lunch and dinner offerings are available to go, and can be packaged to be eaten later. Check out the online menu and call (616) 234-3700 between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to place an order. Meals can be picked up at the Heritage entrance from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  inside the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center at 151 Fountain St. NE. Also available are a variety of grab-and-go bakery items, such as breads, cookies, muffins and sweet rolls, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Heritage entrance. While takeout meals were common for fast food and casual dining, the state’s ban on indoor dining has prompted fine dining establishments to add carryout menus. Professor Bob Schultz said patrons have become used to ordering meals from their favorite fine dining restaurants and probably will want that option to continue even after the pandemic ends. He added that even when inside dining is allowed again, restaurants will likely be operating at reduced capacity, especially at first, and will continue to depend on takeout business. “People have become accustomed to take out, and that’s going to continue after the pandemic,” he said. “We’re helping students build skills that are relevant right now, but also into the future. They’re learning how to adapt to different situations.” Heritage students will ask diners placing meal orders whether they plan to enjoy it right away, or whether they want it prepared and packaged differently to keep in the office refrigerator for several hours and for dinner at home later. Current menu items include French Style Shrimp Bisque; Duck Rangoon; Braai Style Zulu Tenderloin of Beef; Salvadoran Roasted Vegetable, Cheese and Bean Pupusa; Hazelnut Caramel Eclairs; and Peach Tart with Peach Mousse and Blueberry Compote. Please wear a mask inside the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center and keep 6 feet apart from others. Parking under the building is free for those picking up orders. Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college – and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.

Start at Grand Rapids Community College 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! Kevin O’Neill has made a career of stepping up and leading: as a teacher, principal and administrator in the Grand Rapids Public Schools for more than a decade, as superintendent of the Coopersville school district for 13 years, as a Northview Board of Education member, as CEO of the John Ball Zoo for almost three years, as interim executive director of Heartside Ministry for seven months. But as a leader, O’Neill prefers the spotlight to shine elsewhere, believing that schools and organizations perform their best when everyone can share their ideas. “When you give the people who are doing the work the ability to make decisions that are affecting the work, that is certainly more effective,” he said. During his tenure, the Coopersville district received numerous recognitions that included a Blue Ribbon Exemplary High School, a “Best” designation from the Michigan Association of School Boards for four years, the Greater Ottawa County United Way Cappon and Bertsch Community Building Award, and a National Association of School Boards Magna Award. O’Neill, one of eight siblings, attended what was then Grand Rapids Junior College from 1968 to 1970. He received a bachelor’s in mathematics and a master’s degree in education from Grand Valley State University. He later earned a doctorate in education with a Cognate in labor relations from Eastern Michigan University. He has built his career by staying focused on the task before him, an approach he recommends to today’s GRCC students. “If I could have someone’s attention – if I could tell them one thing – it would be just to tackle the next step, one day at a time,” said O’Neill, GRCC’s 2012 Distinguished Alumnus. “Time will creep up on them quick enough, and they will probably surprise themselves at some of the things that they will be able to be a part of over the course of their lives. They’ve got a good start with where they are today, graduating from the community college.” 

Jan. 15, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. --  Melissa Hartley is pursuing her dream career -- two Grand Rapids Community College classes at a time. Hartley is in her third year at GRCC, working on an associate degree in early childhood education. She’s getting experience in her field with a fulltime job for Head Start for Kent County while also working part time at Meijer -- while caring for her four children. “GRCC is affordable and will help me obtain a higher education to make life better for me and my children,” Hartley said. “All my instructors have been very helpful and pushed me to be great while helping with questions I have asked.” Hartley, who has already overcome a period of homelessness to become a proud home owner, has no doubts that she will reach her education goal as well. She advises other students to give their best efforts, take advantage of GRCC resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help. “I want to represent single mothers,” she said. “We can achieve our dreams by taking two classes at a time. I’ve learned that it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish!” Many GRCC students attend part time, scheduling classes around home and work responsibilities. The college offers classes in four formats, and a variety of schedules, focusing on making education accessible. The college also offers support, from tutoring to technology, with a goal of helping all students be successful.

Jan. 12, 2021 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. --  A new agreement guarantees five seats each year in Ferris State University’s Doctor of Pharmacy program for Grand Rapids Community College students, helping students along a pathway to an in-demand career. Ferris is one of only three colleges in the state that offer a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, required to be a licensed pharmacist in Michigan. “Partnerships make our community stronger, and Ferris has been a proud partner for GRCC for many years,” GRCC President Bill Pink said. “The new agreement creates more opportunities for GRCC students to study in one of the best pharmacy programs in the state and work toward a well-paying, in-demand career.” The coronavirus pandemic has led to an immediate demand for pharmacists -- industry publication Drug Topics reported that the CVS chain alone was seeking to fill thousands of positions nationwide -- and the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines is expected to heighten that need. “This partnership provides a valuable service for the state and regional economy,” said Stephen Durst, dean of Ferris’ College of Pharmacy. “Providing career training and education in high-level medical professions is a winning situation for everybody. This example of higher education collaboration demonstrates our meaningful partnership with Grand Rapids Community College and West Michigan. It is a component of a larger statewide commitment and footprint for Ferris State University.” The agreement allows students to get all of their prerequisite classes for this program at GRCC, then transfer directly into the Ferris doctoral program. “This agreement builds upon the more than 25-year partnership we have with Grand Rapids Community College,” Ferris President David Eisler said. “Working together we provide the opportunity that is at the core of our mission. I am delighted with this expansion of our strong working relationship.” The agreement also qualifies the GRCC students accepted into the annual Ferris cohort to apply for admission into one of two dual-degree programs and earn a Master of Business Administration or Master of Public Health with the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Ferris shares the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center on GRCC’s downtown campus. Students can take advantage of more than a dozen educational pathways to earn an associate degree at GRCC and bachelor’s and graduate degrees at Ferris. Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college – and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties. Ferris State University is a four-year public university with campuses in Big Rapids, Grand Rapids and satellite campuses across Michigan. Ferris offers more than 180 educational programs, including doctorates, master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees, through seven academic colleges: Arts, Sciences and Education, Business, Engineering Technology, Health Professions, Kendall College of Art and Design, Michigan College of Optometry and Pharmacy. Additional contact: Sandy Ghoulston News Services and Social Media Manager, Ferris State University (231) 591-2021 SandyGholston@ferris.edu

Jan. 11, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. –  Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, an internationally known scholar of race, religion and contemporary culture, will kick off Grand Rapids Community College’s 2021 Diversity Lecture Series on Jan. 27. Dyson, a Detroit native and author of more than 20 books, will speak on the topic “Pandemic, postelection blues and culture: Where do we go from here?” in the virtual event, which starts at 6 p.m. The event is hosted by GRCC’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Registration is available here:  tinyurl.com/DysonRSVP “Dr. Dyson is a preeminent scholar, author, and thought leader. What makes him compelling is his ability to connect the world of academia, which can be intimidating, to broader, intergenerational audiences,” said B. Afeni McNeely Cobham, GRCC’s chief equity and inclusion officer. “It is fitting that the Diversity Lecture Series, which has a long-standing record of hosting influential guests, is the medium through which GRCC and the Grand Rapids community can come together.” Dyson is a Georgetown University sociology professor and a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times. He has won NAACP Image Awards for outstanding non-fiction literary work, an American Book Award and a Southern Book Prize. His most recent book, “Long Time Coming: Reckoning with Race in America,” was published in December. The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is partnering with the community organization Mus(ed), a to present Dyson with the Ujima Impact Award at the event. The award recognizes extraordinary commitment and contribution to research, scholarship, artistic expression, and service that uplifts the experiences of communities of color. Mus(ed) is a nonprofit branch of Muse GR, an interactive art gallery and event space in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.

Jan. 11, 2021 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.  – Start at Grand Rapids Community College 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! Mildred "Jane" (Baessler) Doyle was a military aviation pioneer and a hero for serving her country in a time of need. She attended what was then Grand Rapids Junior College in 1940 and in a 2014 interview summed up her experience this way: "Junior college changed my whole life -- my whole plan." Doyle, who passed away in 2019, had intended to go into architecture because her brother wanted her to join him in his business. At that time, GRJC didn't have an architecture program, but Doyle took engineering courses that would transfer to the University of Michigan. It was while she was in one of those engineering classes that the instructor made an announcement that caught her attention: GRJC President Arthur Andrews had received federal approval to run a Civilian Pilot Training program. "They said they'd let one girl in for every nine fellows, so I had to pass a physical and I got into the flying program that summer," Doyle said. She transferred to UM after completing the program, earning a bachelor's degree in architecture and interior design in 1943 -- while keeping up her flying time with the Civil Air Patrol. After graduating, Doyle joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots. She and the other WASP recruits flew stateside missions for the military to free up male pilots for overseas combat. She was part of an elite group: Of the 25,000 volunteers, fewer than 2,000 were accepted into the WASP program and 1,078 of them graduated from training. They transported aircraft, equipment and personnel, and performed flight tests on planes that had undergone repairs. While they worked with the military, they were considered civilians. They had to cover the costs of their housing, travel and even their uniforms. If a pilot in the program died -- and 38 did -- her family paid the costs to transport the body home. "My family encouraged me in anything I wanted to try," Doyle said in a 2007 interview for the Women Veterans Historical Project. "And my brother, at that time, was in the Navy, and my oldest sister was in the Red Cross in Texas. And so, my family were very patriotic people, and they were proud to have us serve." She met Don Doyle, a flight instructor at the Seymour, Ind., air base where she served, and they married at the base chapel in August 1944. After the WASP program was disbanded in December 1944, she worked with visually impaired children for a few years and then for Aquinas College, all the while raising her five children. Doyle and the other WASP members received military veteran status in 1977. In 2010, she and the other surviving pilots were honored with the Congressional Gold Medal. Doyle was 96 and the last living WASP in Michigan when she was named GRCC’s 2018 Distinguished Alumna – receiving a standing ovation from graduating students at Commencement.

Jan. 8, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.  – Grand Rapids Community College will use a $1 million grant to connect people in vulnerable populations to career opportunities related to the city’s river restoration projects, infrastructure, and public works. The W.K. Kellogg Foundation awarded GRCC’s Workforce Training Department a three-year, $1,050,344 grant for the college’s Equitable Empowerment Through Career Pathways program. The college will work with community partners, employers and local governments to provide people with skills leading to rewarding jobs or starting businesses. “This grant will help GRCC and our partners tear down barriers to success and provide life-changing opportunities for people to prepare for in-demand careers,” GRCC President Bill Pink said. “We know the value of a strong, diverse workforce, as the Kellogg Foundation has shown through study after study. It makes good sense to use this funding to support such efforts. It will help our communities that are experiencing disparities, as well as our companies who continue to experience talent deficits.” The grant will focus on construction skills and other opportunities related to water, water infrastructure, recreation, and the variety of projects expected to arise from the efforts to restore portions of the Grand River. The grant also will support the college’s Public Works Academy, which will offer skills in electrical, wastewater treatment, National Green Infrastructure certification, and other areas determined by municipalities. “The work of this grant is crucial to tackling the racial and economic disparities we see for families here in Grand Rapids,” said W.K. Kellogg Foundation Program Officer Tracie Coffman. “Grand Rapids Community College does such important work in our community and we look forward to strengthening our partnership over the next three years.” Partners include public works departments for the cities of Grand Rapids, Kentwood and Grand Haven; road commissions for Kent and Van Buren counties, the Michigan Department of Transportation and contractors Prein & Newhof and Rowe Professional Services. Virtual information sessions for the Public Works Academy are planned for noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 11 and 12. Registration is available here:  http://bit.ly/3pNnuc3 . Those who successfully complete the program are guaranteed at least two job interviews. People interested in other aspects of the program can contact the team at the Leslie M. Tassell M-TEC at (616) 234-3800 or  workforcetraining@grcc.edu . The new grant builds on a program supported by a 2018 grant from the Battle Creek-based W.K. Kellogg Foundation that focused on training residents for careers in public works and healthcare.