ALLENDALE, MI – Grand Valley State University is launching a new work-based learning program for student veterans that will help ensure they are recognized for the skills they bring from service to their civilian career.
GVSU is partnering with Michigan-based food solutions company SpartanNash for its new “Veterans Advance: Progressive Work-Based Learning” program, according to a university news release.
The program will employ student-veterans and provide them with a competitive wage while they earn their degree.
Grand Valley President Philomena Mantella announced the new program at the university’s Nov. 11 Veterans Day Breakfast. She said GVSU knows veterans often delay college to serve their country.
“Veterans can suffer unintended negative consequences, and college admission is often more difficult for veterans simply due to their distance from high school,” Mantella said.
“GVSU was the first in the nation to launch the Veteran’s Promise aimed at supporting those with an intention to start college after or during service. This year, Grand Valley is addressing the negative impacts of delayed career starts due to veterans’ commitment to serve.”
Students in the Veterans Advance program will have access to paid professional work experience and a leadership track that runs concurrent with their degree plan, according to the university.
SpartanNash, a longtime supporter of veterans and military families and a food distributor for the U.S. Military, is proud to partner with GVSU on the new program, said Nicole Zube, SpartanNash senior vice president and chief human resources officer.
“One of SpartanNash’s core behaviors is ‘We Serve,’ and we look forward to giving back to these veteran heroes,” Zube said in a statement provided by the university.
“The training and lived experience veterans bring to employers is invaluable. Blending their skills with work-based learning experiences and the educational excellence provided by GVSU is a recipe for building our next generation of leaders.”
Jared Lyon, president and CEO of Washington D.C.-based Student Veterans of America, lauded the initiative as one that could serve as a model for universities as they look to serve veterans and their families, according to the university news release.
“Every year I have the honor to see the dedication of countless colleges and universities as they expand services for the empowerment of student veterans,” Lyon said in a statement. “Grand Valley State University leads the pack when it comes to innovation and commitment.
The Veterans Advance Progressive Work-Based Learning program is a shareable blueprint that has the ability to make a widespread and lasting impact for all campuses moving forward.”
To learn more about Grand Valley’s commitment to veterans, visit the website for the Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Resource Center.
In 2021, GVSU expanded its services for active-duty military and veteran students through a donation by the family of late West Michigan philanthropist Peter Secchia.
The Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Program now provides career support to military students, including help with transitioning from military to civilian careers, and supports the development of multifunctional spaces, including a presence in downtown Grand Rapids.
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