Grand Valley recognized for support of veterans

Allendale – Grand Valley State University was honored June 22 for its commitment to helping student veterans transition from the military to college life through the Michigan Veteran Education Initiative.

MVEI, a program through the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, places veteran resource representatives (VRRs) on campuses throughout the state to help student veterans succeed as they pursue an education. Marq Hicks, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serves as the veteran resource representative for Grand Valley and Grand Rapids Community College.

VRRs provide support and answer questions from veterans, faculty and staff about admissions, financial aid and other topics. During the past 18 months, VRRs in Michigan have connected with more than 2,000 student veterans and assisted them in claiming more than $5 million in benefits.

This is the latest recognition for Grand Valley’s support of veterans. In November 2015, the university was named a “Best for Vets” college by Military Times for the second year in a row. Grand Valley received gold status — the highest status — from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for its dedication to student veterans and dependents of G.I. Bill and other education benefits.