April 14, 2026 The piano has held special fascination for Tyler Watkins ever since he was young. “When I was 12, I received a mini-keyboard with about 40 keys,” Watkins said. “I loved playing it, and kept trying to learn songs. My parents bought me a full-size keyboard for my 15th birthday. Once I started learning contemporary music on that, I was hooked.” Watkins is pursuing a recording technology associate degree , with the dream to someday write movie scores. He came to GRCC not only to finish up his gen ed requirements, but also because the music program receives top ratings among Midwest colleges. “I love the intricacy of a good score,” Watkins said. “I think I hear things that other people don’t hear in those pieces. ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ is probably one of my favorite scores. The music is so fitting for each scene. I want to be able to create that kind of magic.” Earning his recording technology degree from GRCC is the first step, and then he hopes to transfer to Western Michigan’s music program. Watkins knows that building connections in the movie industry will take time, so he also plans to teach for a while. Coaching from a Pro Professor Jonah Elrod , an accomplished composer himself, noticed Watkins’ composition talent and encouraged him to submit a piece for the 2026 Jack Stone Award for New Music. Each year, community college student composers from around the United States submit pieces for varied instrumentations, and these pieces are judged by members of the Composers Alliance of San Antonio . A winner and two runners-up are selected, and they are then flown to San Antonio, where they get to meet and form lifelong friendships in addition to hearing their works premiered by top-notch professional musicians. They receive a recording of their works, and the concert is preceded by a master class involving the musicians and at least one of the judges, allowing the students valuable opportunities to learn and grow as composers. Although the Jack Stone competition was open to community college students from all over the United States, professor Elrod thought Watkins was ready to compete on that stage. And in this, Watkins’ second-ever composition competition, he received one of the two runner-up awards. “This win is going to push me forward,” Watkins said. “It reinforces the idea that this is something I can do. The win is great to put on my resume. However, even better than the win is what I learned when I went to San Antonio. Hearing my piece performed by the actual instruments brought it to life. I learned so much on that trip about instrumentation, phrasing, and even breathing for woodwinds. It taught me how to better orchestrate my music.” Professor Elrod is thrilled that Watkins was able to advance his compositional skills through the competition and the benefits that came with the win. “It’s a huge educational experience to interact with musicians at that level,” professor Elrod said. “Tyler was able to meet people and had to explain his music. That’s a skill that only comes with practice, so this was a great way to acquire it. He also made some wonderful connections, and got to interact with the faculty at Northwest Vista College. Those are priceless experiences.” About the Music  Watkins titled his piece, “This Garden of Reverie,” and explains that it moves the listener through a journey of self-reflection. “The music begins with someone walking through a peaceful, calm garden,” Watkins said. “As the walk progresses, the scenes change and become darker. This song reflects the polarity of our minds. We can be peaceful when our minds allow us to be, but we can also become our own worst enemies when we allow fear to take over.”   Professor Elrod notes that regardless of where Watkins’ career takes him, this award can do nothing but help. “Tyler’s music is really special,” Professor Elrod said. “He is already so mature in his phrasing and the way he plans his music. He’s careful and expressive, not rushing from idea to idea. After only one year, his music has a maturity that’s hard to develop. If he wants to go the self-published route, this adds credibility to his work. If he wants to teach, he can say he won a competition. I hope the win opened his eyes and gave him confidence, because he is really talented.”   Visit the Recording Technology, A.M. web page to learn more about this program. This story was reported by Julie Hordyk.

April 13, 2026 The Grand Rapids Community College Marketing and Communications team has once again been recognized for exceptional work in higher education marketing by the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR).  NCMPR celebrates outstanding achievement in marketing and public relations among two-year community and technical colleges across the United States. Over 1,500 entries were submitted in this year’s Paragon awards from over 200 colleges across the country. GRCC rose to the top in three categories. Annual Report  The 2024-25 Foundation Annual Report was awarded a Gold Paragon for the fifth consecutive year. The report tells the stories of GRCC students, employees, alumni and the community. The report showcases the real impact that the Foundation makes for our students.  Social Media Page The GRCC Instagram page ( @GRCCRaiders ) received a Silver Paragon for its creative and authentic approach to engaging with students. The Instagram account serves as both a communication tool to connect with students as well as a recruitment tool for prospective students.  Wildcard Category The GRCC Storefront in Junior Achievement’s BizTown received a Silver Paragon in the Wildcard category. The Storefront features images of GRCC students, campus and classrooms. Middle school students visit BizTown and can work at the college or enroll in classes, introducing the college to young learners.    Marketing Makes a Difference “Behind every enrollment milestone, retention gain and student success story is a team of marketing and communications professionals working strategically and creatively to connect students with opportunity,” said Patrick Stone, NCMPR’s 2025-26 president. “This year’s winners stood out in an extraordinary field of entries, demonstrating that when community colleges invest in creativity and innovation, they amplify their mission and transform lives.” NCMPR’s Paragon Awards are the only national competition of its kind that honor excellence exclusively among marcom and public relations professionals at community and technical colleges.

April 10, 2026 The Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) 2026 Commencement ceremony is approaching and the college is preparing to celebrate the achievements of this year’s graduates at the Van Andel Arena. The ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 30, at 7 p.m. Family, friends and members of the community are invited to attend and celebrate the Class of 2026. The event will be livestreamed, allowing those unable to attend in person to join the celebration. The link will be available on the Commencement page of the GRCC website . Commencement recognizes not only academic success, but the resilience, growth and determination of GRCC students as they prepare for what comes next. “Commencement is one of the most meaningful moments of the year,” said President Kathryn A. Rogalski, Ed.D. “Our graduates represent the very best of GRCC. Their perseverance, curiosity and commitment to their goals inspire all of us. We are incredibly proud of what they have accomplished and excited for the impact they will make in their communities.” 2026 Graduates of Excellence Among this year’s graduates, GRCC recognizes five Graduates of Excellence — students selected for their exceptional academic achievement, leadership and impact within their schools. Nicholas Thomasma, School of Business and Industry An honors student and Phi Theta Kappa member, Nicholas combines academic excellence with leadership as Student Government communications director. He will graduate with two associate degrees and has contributed to community initiatives like the Grand Rapids African American Arts and Music Festival. Jason Villareal, School of Health Sciences An adult learner pursuing a second career, Jason stands out for his curiosity, leadership and support of peers. He has led study groups and contributed to community service through his program and volunteer work. Peyton Helms, School of Liberal Arts Peyton’s journey reflects resilience and creative growth. A recording technology student, she has shown leadership through musical performance, mentoring peers and pursuing her passion for music with purpose. Yadira Lopez Puac, School of STEM A computer science student and campus leader, Yadira pairs academic excellence with community involvement, including leadership roles and an internship that supports her future career goals. LaRhonda Mallard, School of Workforce Training LaRhonda’s perseverance led her to complete the Medical Assistant program, earn certification on her first attempt and secure employment. Her journey is a powerful example of determination and growth. Distinguished Award Winners: Honoring Excellence Beyond Graduation GRCC also honors individuals whose contributions have strengthened the college and the community: Faculty Emeritus Award — Thomas Neils, Ph.D. A longtime Physical Sciences faculty member, Neils dedicated more than 26 years to teaching and continues to support students through TRIO tutoring and mentorship. Distinguished Alumni Award — Dr. Orzie Henderson A physician with a 50-year career, Dr. Henderson has combined medical excellence with a deep commitment to service, including volunteer work locally and internationally. Young Alumni Award — Levi Knoll A GRCC culinary graduate and co-founder of Archival Brewing, Knoll has earned national recognition while mentoring students and supporting local industry partnerships. Ready for What’s Next As the Class of 2026 prepares to cross the stage, their accomplishments reflect more than academic milestones. They represent perseverance, growth and possibility. GRCC graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers, continue their education and make a meaningful impact in their communities. To learn more about GRCC’s Commencement, please visit the website .