Grand Valley Magazine Winter 2014 - (Page 15)

DON O R I M PAC T G i v i N G M At t e R s Expanding national impact Seeking Common Ground The Kellogg chair, coupled with an increased emphasis on community philanthropy, will also further the Johnson Center's positive impact on community organizations in West Michigan and around the country. The Johnson Center's expertise in all areas of the nonprofit world is helping community foundations as far away as California. "When we were looking for assistance with training and resources for our organization, it was critically important that my team of program directors have access to high quality training on best practices in grantmaking," said Sandra Nathan, vice president of programs and loans at the Marin Community Foundation, based in a city north of San Francisco. "The Johnson Center provided that. As a learning organization, we are well on our way to incorporating some of those best practices. The faculty and materials provided us with valuable insight and information." The Johnson Center is also making a profound impact locally with organizations like Kids' Food Basket in Grand Rapids. Since 2005, Kids' Food Basket has used Johnson Center resources, including the Nonprofit Services program, seminars and workshops and professional development. "The Johnson Center provides a place, space and resources to build stronger organizations and a stronger community," said Bridget Clark Whitney, Kids' Food Basket executive director. "Not many communities have these resources. The Johnson Center is a testament to this region and its dedication to economic development." Through the generosity of donors, Grand Valley has been able to endow six faculty chairs, ranging in focus from engineering to art. Bill HolsingerRobinson, the Frederik Meijer Endowed Honors Chair in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, is profiled on page 30. To learn more about endowed faculty chairs, contact University Development at (616) 331-6000 or universitydevelopment@gvsu.edu. The Common Ground Initiative at the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies challenges students, faculty and staff members and the public to find the roots that connect the two major political parties while exploring the challenges Americans face today. A revolutionary concept in higher education, Common Ground uses open and respectful talks, roundtables and debates to explore what it means to be conservative or progressive in the 21st century. The initiative provides understanding and skills that students need, and is one way that the Hauenstein Center is raising a new generation of ethical and effective leaders dedicated to public service. For more information, or to learn about upcoming events, visit www.hauensteincenter.org. Ralph W. Hauenstein, the center's namesake, gave another gift to the center in December, enabling it to further its mission. See page 4 for details. New giving opportunities Gifts to Grand Valley build the excellence for which the university is often recognized. Giving to the university's annual projects is a new way to support the needs of students. The website features stories of student projects and funds that need assistance to reach their goals as well as information about the Grand Valley Fund. Gifts to the Grand Valley Fund, which supports the university's areas of highest need, also make a tremendous difference at Grand Valley. Visit www.gvsu.edu/giving/annualgiving. Seidman international study program grows Global experiences are critical to the future of Grand Valley's international business students. Studying abroad teaches students cultural nuances in communication and negotiation and gives them experiences that help prepare them for careers. Donors are supporting students by giving to the Seidman College of Business Study Abroad Scholarship Endowment. Gifts will help students gain the experience they need to succeed in the global business environment, and will help provide exceptional talent for Michigan's businesses. Give online at www.gvsu.edu/giving/givenow. Wesorick Center opportunity The Bonnie Wesorick Center for Health Care Transformation collects, studies and promotes best practices in nursing and health care, transforming the way disciplines work together. Housed in the Kirkhof College of Nursing, the Wesorick Center also provides special opportunities for students, giving them the knowledge and experiences to be the next generation of health care leaders. The Wesorick Center, a national leader in its field, is nearing the completion of its $1 million endowment campaign. Gifts to support the Wesorick Center can be made online at www.gvsu.edu/giving/givenow. For more information about the Wesorick Center, visit www.gvsu.edu/wesorick. 15 www.gvsu.edu Grand Valley Magazine http://www.hauensteincenter.org http://www.gvsu.edu/giving/annualgiving http://www.gvsu.edu/giving/givenow http://www.gvsu.edu/giving/givenow http://www.gvsu.edu/wesorick http://www.gvsu.edu

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Grand Valley Magazine Winter 2014

Campus News
International Education
Arts
Athletics
Donor Impact
Covenant House provides education, opportunity
Going the extra Medical Mile
Seeds of Promise
Student media: creating community, content and careers
Q&A Bill Holsinger-Robinson
Research
Off the Path
Alumni

Grand Valley Magazine Winter 2014