GRCC In the News, 6-12-19

Highlights of the 2019-20 budget approved by GRCC Trustees

June 11, 2019; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a $112.3 million operating budget for the 2019-20 academic year

GRCC partners with HexArmor to create 49 new jobs

June 11, 2019; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees approved a $324,875 Michigan New Jobs Training Program agreement Monday with HexArmor, a global provider of personal protective equipment.

Overcoming homelessness to get her degree, she’s ready to help others

June 11, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District)

Five years after sharing her story about growing up in poverty,  a mature, confident, 22-year-old Jordan Lovett walked into a local coffee shop. She had graduated days earlier from Grand Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in social work.

… I checked in with Lovett the next winter.  She was struggling as a freshman at Aquinas College. Her grades weren’t great and she was stressed out trying to work, pay the bills, and complete 18 credits. She had already enrolled in Grand Rapids Community College for the next semester, to save money. She was one of many students in college who have the imposter feeling of, “I don’t belong here.” I wrote her second story as a bigger piece about how barriers for low-income college students don’t end at the Admissions Office door.

Sushi caterer rolls with purpose

June 11, 2019; Grand Rapids Magazine

After earning a pre-social work degree, Bawi Sung felt whatever career she found next should center on helping her fellow Burmese orphans and refugees.

… In the U.S., while learning English as a second language, Anu completed ninth grade through high school — where she met her now-husband Aceu Thawng, who immigrated to Grand Rapids in 2008. Anu then earned a pre-social work degree from Grand Rapids Community College.

Chess players gain focus, swagger

June 11, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District)

After winning the chess tournament at Comstock Park High School for two years running, Senior Stephen Riley could walk through commencement with a bit of swagger.

… “No one thought I was going to win,” says Stephen, who will go on to classes at Grand Rapids Community College this fall. “I didn’t even think I would win.”

Bucs, Lakers and Trojans represent as All-Stars

June 12, 2019; Grand Haven Tribune

Local volleyball seniors had the chance to suit up one last time in their school colors Tuesday as Muskegon Community College hosted an All-Star game for outgoing players.

… Across the board, the local all-stars will be continuing their careers at the collegiate level. Paulsen and Carlyle got an early introduction to their new home Tuesday, as they will take their talents to play for the Jayhawks this fall. Zenas is set to set at Hillsdale College, while Strohmeyer will continue to terminate points for Lake Superior State University. (Kailey) Carmean and (Kylie) Oberlin plan to remain teammates while attending Grand Rapids Community College and Core will bring the heat at Hope College.

Students receive $500 scholarships from Sparrow Ionia Hospital Foundation

June 11, 2019; Ionia Sentinel-Standard

IONIA COUNTY — Eight students pursuing careers in health care each received $500 in scholarships from Sparrow Ionia Hospital Foundation.

… Scholarship recipients for 2019 are:

… Jeffrey Puehler from Belding High School — attending Grand Rapids Community College for a nurse practitioner degree.

Grand Rapids school board approves interim superintendent contract

June 11, 2019; MLive

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Grand Rapids school board approved a contract Monday, June 10, for Ronald Gorman to serve as interim superintendent when Teresa Weatherall Neal retires effective July 1.

(This article doesn’t mention it, but Ronald Gorman is a GRCC alumnus.)

The Women’s Coalition of Motorcyclists Announces the Train-the-trainer scholarship

June 11, 2019; WHFB

In pursuit of the goal of doubling the number of female motorcycle riders by 2020, the Women’s Coalition of Motorcyclists (WCM) has established a train-the-trainer scholarship program in partnership with the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning and Michigan Rider Education Program. The scholarship program will allow for up to 10 WCM paid members to attend the RiderCoach Preparation course to become a certified motorcycle safety coach. In Michigan, only 11 percent (27 of 235) of certified RiderCoaches are female.

…  For an application for the Grand Rapids Community College Motorcycle Rider Education Program visit: (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByIXC151xB1idkw5Qzlfd3hzcTZxMlVCVnh1ZVJJR3c2T0lv/view )

Jewish Theatre’s “Church & State” combines real-life topics with comedy

June 11, 2019; FOX 17

Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids is combining real, serious topics and comedy in their latest production, “Church & State.”

… The play will be performed at GRCC Spectrum Theatre on the following dates:

GRCC In the News, 6-10-19

GRCC president discusses role of industry collaboration in higher ed

June 9, 2019; mibiz.com

Since Bill Pink became the tenth president of Grand Rapids Community College two years ago, he has become a leading voice for the state’s network of 28 community colleges. Pink sat down with MiBiz after speaking from the main stage of the Mackinac Policy Conference, an annual gathering of Michigan’s top business and political leaders, to discuss the effect of business executives, education leaders and philanthropy partners coming together to advocate for a better education system.

Change-Ups: ACG Western Michigan Recognized as National Chapter of the Year

June 7, 2019; Grand Rapids Business Journal

… SPORTS

Grand Rapids Community College hired Jeff Bauer as the men’s basketball coach. Bauer has experience at the NCAA Division I and II levels, including 11 years at his alma mater, Grand Valley State University. Bauer will be the eighth coach since 1965 to coach GRCC’s men’s basketball team. He replaces Luke Bronkema, who had a successful three-year run with two national tournament appearances: a sixth-place finish in 2017 and eighth-place finish in 2018.

Spotlight on the News Special: Inside the 2019 Mackinac Policy Conference & its “One Michigan” theme

June 7, 2019; WXYZ

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI. — On Sunday, June 9, Spotlight on the News will broadcast its 2019 Mackinac Policy Conference special from the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The 30 minute broadcast will include a smorgasbord of leaders from Michigan and elsewhere. From Chamber President Sandy Baruah to government leaders such as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield, State Attorney General Dana Nessel, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to ABC News Political Analyst Matthew Dowd and Grand Rapids Community College President Dr. Bill Pink, tune in for their very candid insights and comments.

GRCC reps ‘raid’ high school to share college info

June 7, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District)

Union High School juniors Jashiya Moore and Ronjaia McIntosh said they feel excited and nervous about going to college.

… Jashiya and Ronjaia — students who will have college paid for through the Challenge Scholars program — are not alone in having a mix of emotions as they look ahead to college. So Grand Rapids Community College representatives are working to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Mayville’s Rutter inks with Grand Rapids Community College

June 9, 2019; The County Press (Lapeer)

MAYVILLE — From left to right James Brooks, Shelly Brooks, Mayville senior, Alexis Rutter, Coach Brian Skudre and Mayville Head Coach Andrew Morrison are all smiles as Lexi signs her national letter-of-intent to play softball at Grand Rapids Community College Thursday.

Leaving his mark

June 7, 2019; The Daily News (Greenville)

IONIA — Tyler Hausserman is finishing up his high school golfing career how every golfer his age would like to — at the state finals, which takes place today and tomorrow.

… Hausserman is the first golfer under (coach Bryan) Wetherwax’s six years of tutelage to sign with a college team, signing a letter of intent with Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) May 15.

To cap it off

June 7, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org 

The Thursday evening before graduation, Lee High School was abuzz with activity as 84 seniors — nervous, excited and anxious to finish the school year — presented their capstone projects to panels of volunteer judges.

… “I think it’s really important to protect the bonds that families need to have,” said Melissa (Montiel), who plans to attend Grand Rapids Community College this fall, then transfer to a four-year school.

‘Church & State’ tackles tough issues on stage

June 7, 2019; WZZM

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — For ten days in June, Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids is taking on tough issues through their performance of “Church and State.” The play, by Jason Odell, deals with school shootings and gun control discussions in politics.

Performances will be at Grand Rapids Community College’s Spectrum Theatre’s main stage. They will be held at 8 p.m on June 13, 15, 20 and 22. There will also be performances at 3 p.m. on June 16 and 23.

GRCC In the News, 6-4-19

Saugatuck’s Brad Dunn to play baseball at Grand Rapids Community College

June 3, 2019; The Holland Sentinel

SAUGATUCK — Brad Dunn won two, individual state hurdle championships on Saturday to conclude his high school career as a four-sport star.

… The Saugatuck senior signed with Grand Rapids Community College in late May.

Graduation 2019: Holland VR Tech

June 3, 2019; The Holland Sentinel

What are you looking forward to now that you’ve graduated?

… “I’m going to college at Grand Rapids Community College to be an ultrasound tech.” — Caroline Pannyasee

… “I’m planning on going to Grand Rapids Community College.” — Happin Waguk

New SingularityU chapter fosters “Exponential Technologies for Good”

June 3, 2019; rapidgrowthmedia.com

Thanks to local futurist, Mary Brown, Singularity University (SU) is establishing a chapter in Grand Rapids, one of 142 chapters in 66 world locations recognized as up-and-coming technology centers. SU had been on Brown’s radar for some time. After attending its Global Summit, she submitted an application in hopes of starting a Grand Rapids chapter. Because Grand Rapids is recognized as an emerging center of innovation, the chapter application was approved.

… SingularityU Grand Rapids team members include Brown, the chapter ambassador, and Jan Mathorne, owner of HUCAPA – Human Capital Partners, an executive search consulting firm based in Denmark, Michigan, and California. Brown, a futurist, focuses on ethical adoption of AI in healthcare and society via human-centered design and organizational change and learning. A former senior digital experience analyst at Priority Health, she currently serves as senior consultant for learning and development in Spectrum Health’s Inclusion and Diversity department and as adjunct faculty at Grand Rapids Community College in the psychology and business departments.

GRCC In the News, 5-6-19

News at Noon

May 3, 2019; WZZM

Besides Tulip Time, Holland is also celebrating Latino culture this weekend. Grand Rapids Community College’s Lakeshore campus and Latin Americans United for Progress for Fiesta 2019!

Verify: should you wash your chicken?

May 2, 2019; WZZM

MICHIGAN, USA — It’s become the great chicken debate.  Should you wash your chicken before you cook it?

… Our sources are the Food and Drug Administration and Werner Asbenger, the Program Director at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College.

#EndCC Stigma Podcast

May 5, 2019

James K. Robinson: “I was one of those late developers in life, and when I graduated from high school in the bottom third of my class, I got turned down at every college I applied to. Thanks goodness for Grand Rapids Junior College. I was the oldest of six kids; we couldn’t afford a big anyway. So, community college gave me a phenominal opportunity – a chance to do something with my life …”

(This is a podcast by Owens Community College President Steve Robinson. His father, James K. Robinson, was assistant attorney general under President Clinton.)

Young mom surpasses expectations to get to graduation day

May 3, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District newsletter)

Two weeks before the start of her freshman year at Godwin High School, Ahnaka Ortiz-Rodriguez landed in the emergency room with abdominal pain. Her mom was with her while they awaited test results. Ahnaka believed she was experiencing some stomach issues, something she dealt with as a child.  When the doctor walked in, Ahnaka and her mom heard the unexpected: “Your daughter’s pregnant.”

… Ahnaka plans to enroll in Grand Rapids Community College, a choice she made because it will allow her to live at home with her daughter. She has already earned credits toward college through dual enrollment, and intends to study nursing, a decision influenced by her experience of having many compassionate and supportive nurses when she had Izzy at Spectrum Health.

Server forms recovery nonprofit

May 3, 2019; Grand Rapids Business Journal

For someone committed to getting sober, working in a restaurant or bar with the sights and smells of beer all day can be tough.

… As a result, she (Nance McGorman) decided to pursue a social work degree to be better equipped to help with those issues. She will be starting pre-social work classes this month (May) at Grand Rapids Community College and hopes to continue her education further after that with the goal of becoming a licensed recovery coach.

Ally Longstreet voted Grand Rapids Press Athlete of the Week 3

May 3, 2019; MLive

Wayland senior Ally Longstreet has been swinging a big bat for the Wildcats this spring.

… Longstreet, an outfielder, plans to continue her softball career at Grand Rapids Community College next year. Longstreet is a three-sport athlete. She was a diver on the swim team this past fall, and she played basketball, too.

Township joins fight against nonprofit tax exemptions

May 4, 2019; Grand Haven Tribune

GRAND HAVEN TWP. — Grand Haven Township has entered the fold to prevent nonprofit businesses from receiving tax exemptions for providing minimal charity.

… Algoma, Plainfield and Sparta townships in Kent County, the City of Kentwood, Rockford Public Schools, Kent Intermediate School District, and Grand Rapids Community College are also part of the agreement.

GRCC to host summer camp with musicians who mash classical, popular genres

April 23, 2019; schoolnewsnetwork.org

Think about Shakespeare and hip-hop, said pianist and composer Brendan Hollins.

… Kevin Dobreff, program director for the GRCC Music Department, is happy to host.

New Ann Arbor Huron football coach aims to snap state’s longest losing streak

May 3, 2019; MLive

ANN ARBOR — Ann Arbor Huron Athletic Director Tony Whiren was searching for someone who can help change the culture of the football program, which has lost 39 straight games — the longest active streak in the state.

… (Antaiwn) Mack served as linebackers coach at Grand Rapids Community College from 2008-11 under Tony Annese, who is now the head coach at Ferris State. Mack, who attended Ypsilanti Lincoln, most recently served as co-defensive coordinator at Ypsilanti in 2014, the last time the Grizzlies reached the playoffs.

Raider Salute from Psychology Department

Special thanks from the Psychology Department to the following people for all of their help with the behind the scenes with the Psychology Transfer Fair. We could do nothing without you guys and you are all greatly appreciated. Thank you for all your hard work Dewayn Faber, Jeremy Manning, Luis Rodriguez-Cruz, Destiny Swanson and all the catering associates, Jim Schafer, Tim Zerfas and all the media associates.

GRCC In the News, 11-6-17

GRCC program teaches basics of breweries

Nov. 3, 2017; Grand Rapids Business Journal

After Kyle Rondeau graduates from Grand Rapids Community College, he said he envisions himself in a multitude of career paths.

Ada, Cascade historical societies team up for Veterans Day event

Nov. 4, 2017; MLive

The Cascade and Ada Historical Societies teamed up for a special Veterans Day presentation featuring one of the first women WWII pilots.

… (Jane) Doyle obtained her private pilot’s license when she graduated from Grand Rapids South High School in 1940. She completed her 70 hours of ground school at the junior college, now known as Grand Rapids Community College, and her 30 hours of flight training at what was then the Kent County Airport.

Mike Ketchum promoted to dispatch supervisor at Ionia County Central Dispatch

Nov. 4, 2017; Ionia Sentinel-Standard

IONIA COUNTY — Mike Ketchum has been promoted from dispatcher to dispatch supervisor at Ionia County Central Dispatch.

… Ketchum is a graduate of Lowell High School and Grand Rapids Community College. He and his wife, Dawn, have three adult children and two grandchildren.

Former BH woman releases first book

Nov. 6, 2017; The Herald-Palladium (St. Joseph)

BENTON HARBOR — Benton Harbor native Cheryl Edwards-Cannon recently released her first book, Taking Care of Miss Bee Bee.

… A Benton Harbor High School graduate, she earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University, a master’s degree from Aquinas College and a certificate in gerontology from Grand Rapids Community College.

 

Lake Michigan Credit Union donates to Student Food Exchange

The Psychology Department wants to thank the GRCC branch of the Lake Michigan Credit Union for donating $50 towards the Sneden Hall Student Food Exchange. The Psychology Department matched LMCU’s generous gift of $50 to provide food to students.

In any give month, 45% of GRCC students experience food insecurity. Simply stated, almost half of GRCC students at some time during the month do not have enough food to meet their basic needs.

The assistance of LMCU will have a direct benefit to the students of GRCC.

Stop into their office on 4th floor Main and tell Wendy or Michelle thanks!

Food pantry items include jars of peanut butter, soups, Ramen noodles, cereal, instant mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and cereals.

GRCC retiree biography: Paula Termeer

Paula Termeer started to work at GRCC as an adjunct instructor from 1992 to 1997.  In 2007, she returned as an adjunct instructor for the Psychology Department at GRCC.

Here’s what Paula shared with us about her teaching experience at GRCC:

I began at GRCC (then GRJC!) in 1992, teaching in the Public Service Department, basically criminal justice classes, while working for 61st District Court. The position was discontinued with the hiring of fulltime faculty about 1997. I was invited to return about 2006 to teach in the Psychology Department while working at Pine Rest. All positions have been as adjuncts.

Some of my favorite student stories have revolved around those who struggled the most. One in particular was a young man from Africa, who didn’t think he needed to take “remedial” classes (foundations) and failed his first semester. By the luck of the draw, he had me again the next semester, and we sat down and discussed what he needed to do different. He implemented the changes, in all of his classes, and passed with flying colors. I was able to help him get a job as a parking attendant for Spectrum Health and as he continued in college, he moved up the ranks of his jobs there. A few years later, he invited me to his graduation at GVSU and announced he was accepted to the Physician Assistant program at GVSU and I attended that graduation as well. Another student I had in my first class at GRJC back in 1992. When she finished undergrad, she happened to contact me about a MSW program and later asked me to supervise her internship, which I did. We worked as colleagues at Pine Rest for several years and this year, I recruited her to teach the class she had me for, in the Public Service Division. So we went full circle in that relationship!

For retirement, my husband and I will be able to do a lot more traveling, seeing the U.S. and Europe, at this point. I also accepted the position of director of women’s ministry at our church and am writing a blog on what to say when you don’t know what to say!

I loved my time at GRCC and look forward to seeing the new trends in college in the future.

Paula, on behalf of your GRCC community, we want to thank you for your commitment and service to GRCC.  Your contributions to our students’ lives can never be measured.  Happy retirement!

Retiree Biography: Deb Nordman

Deb Nordman has worked at GRCC since 1995, first as a clinical instructor at Saint Mary’s Health Services, then an adjunct for both the Radiology and Psychology departments and then full-time faculty serving as the program director of the Rad Tech Program. Deb said that her students have been her favorite part of the job; she has learned so much from them. Her program is unique in that she works with cohorts for two years, allowing her to get to know the students better. Many of her students keep in touch with her after they’ve completed their program. Deb shared one particular story about a student:

“Many years ago, I had a student that was experiencing housing issues in the final semester of classes for the program. For a brief time, she lived in her car with her young son (I was not aware of this at the time). The student had an excellent attendance record and always participated in class. However, her housing issues caused her to miss some time and the corresponding assignments/tests. This brought her grade down and she would not have passed the semester. I agreed to an independent study to get her up to date and complete her assignments. She was able to complete every requirement and eventually received a passing grade. She graduated and passed her registry exam. Several years later, I happened to see this student at Target. She came up to me and thanked me. She then told me how she had lived in her car for a brief time and how desperate she was to get out of that situation. Since her graduation, she had found a full-time position in radiology and was now married. She introduced me to her husband and told me they had just purchased a house. I often think about this student and how you never really know the whole story behind a student’s struggles. She was an inspiration to me and I am so thankful that I could be a part of her success.”

In retirement, Deb is looking forward to relaxing at her cottage with family and friends and also traveling. She’s hoping to visit Italy and Greece. Deb would like to take a photography class and painting class, and plans on reconnecting with old friends.

Deb, on behalf of your GRCC community, we all wish you the very best in retirement. Thank you so much for your service to GRCC and our students.

GRCC adjunct retiree biographies

Human Resources will be starting a new communication for our retirees. This idea was submitted via the PACE feedback meetings or the Community Luncheon sessions — so we thank you for your feedback on this opportunity to improve communications about our retirees.

The following adjuncts will be retiring from GRCC on Friday, April 29. With their permission and input, here’s some information about their teaching experience at GRCC:

Barbara Egeler

Barbara has worked at GRCC as an adjunct instructor since January 2004.

She initially started teaching communication courses in the Language and Thought Department and then went back to grad school at WMU to get a M.A. in Counseling/Psychology. In 2007, she began teaching psychology courses for the Psychology Department at GRCC.

Here’s what Barbara shared with us about her teaching experience at GRCC:

“Over the years, I have met so many diverse, funny and inquisitive students that made teaching exciting and fun. Some classes were more memorable than others. In some of the classes the students and I ‘clicked,’ making the semester fly by. In some instances, I actually didn’t want the semester to end because the class was more like a colloquium where everyone shares ideas. In my retirement, I want to pursue painting and decorating houses. I’d like also to learn new skills and travel.  I’ve been privileged to work at GRCC with great faculty, department chairs and especially the students. I wanted to teach ever since I was in elementary school, so having the opportunity to teach students from all backgrounds and ages and learn from them has been a gift. Teaching at GRCC has truly been satisfying.”

Robin Connell

Robin Connell sits at a keyboard.

Robin Connell

Robin has worked at GRCC as an adjunct instructor since January 2001 in the Music Department, mostly teaching music theory.

Here’s what Robin shared with us about her teaching experience at GRCC:

“Several stories come to mind, most of which are examples of simple things that, when put together, help build the community. For example, a few years ago a student was knitting winter ‘Pokemon’ hats. Some students were wearing them to class and they were quite surprised when I asked her if she could make me a Charmander hat. I started naming the various Pokemon and we had fun taking a short break from music theory to discuss our favorite characters.  As an adjunct juggling more than one job, as well as family, I was not able to be as involved with students as much as I wanted. So it came as a surprise when, over the years, I would run into former students who remembered me. One student in particular talked with me several times after he was enrolled at GVSU and was struggling with ‘what to do with his life.’ Others are out in the world working as musicians or music educators and keep in touch. It’s just a delight to see what former students are doing, whether they continue in a music career or move on to something else. These encounters have made me feel like I was truly a part of GRCC even though I was only teaching part time.  Although I am retiring from GRCC, I am continuing to work my other part-time jobs because I’m not old enough, or financially sound enough, to completely retire! I’ve been a self-employed musician since I graduated from GVSC in 1979. Some of that employment is performing (a dozen or so events a month) but I also teach jazz studies at Aquinas College, at my home, and as a clinician at schools and festivals. This is my third year co-directing the Youth Jazz Ensemble program at St Cecilia Music Center as well as the third year of a jazz piano concert series I host at Fountain Street Church, called, Jazz in the Sanctuary [next concert is May 7]. I hope to find a little more time for family and friends now too!  I can’t even imagine what my life would have been like without these past sixteen years at GRCC. I am so grateful for being able to teach music theory, a subject I am just geeky about and love sharing. Although I was the teacher, I always felt like I was learning, too. I also have a deep appreciation and respect for my GRCC colleagues who have been wonderful to work with and I’m excited about attending future concerts in the newly renovated music building next year.”

 Susan Wallsteadt

Susan Wallsteadt

Susan Wallsteadt

Susan has worked at GRCC as an adjunct instructor since August 2000.  For most of those years she has been an adjunct instructor in the Psychology Department and for a short period of time she was a temporary assistant professor.

Here’s what Susan shared with us about her teaching experience at GRCC:

“Nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see my former students achieve such wonderful things.  I recently was invited by one of my previous students to attend the Delta Pi Alpha dinner.  She is graduating from GRCC this semester and was recognized as one of the students to have achieved an overall 4.0 GPA.  How amazing is that!  After 17 years, I don’t think there is any doubt that I belonged to GRCC. My constant reminder is the number of times I have been out in public, such as at a restaurant or store, and have a student ask me, ‘Aren’t you a professor at GRCC?  I had you back when…..’  I have always had two jobs, but will for now have one. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, especially my five-year-old grandson.  I’m also going to travel more and visit my sister in Florida and my brother in California.  I have so enjoyed my time at GRCC.  I’m grateful for all the wonderful people I’ve been able to work with and socialize with, and also for the opportunity to be a part of so many students’ academic lives.  They have taught me so much!”

We would like to congratulate our adjunct retirees and thank them for their commitment and service to GRCC.  Their contributions to our students’ lives can never be measured.  Happy retirement!

Psi Beta creates Student Food Exchange Pantry

Members of Psi Beta, the National Honor Society for Psychology in the Community College, have installed a Student Food Exchange Pantry in Sneden Hall. The purpose of this pantry is to provide free food to any GRCC student. It will be a community-based model similar to community book exchanges: If you need some food, take some food. If you can share some food, leave some food.

The inspiration for this pantry came from the data shared at SLT in January that in any given month, 45 percent of GRCC students experienced food insecurity. Simply stated, almost half of GRCC students at some time during the month did not have enough food to meet their basic needs.

The students built and painted the pantry, which is across from the elevators on the first floor of Sneden.

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