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 .

April 8, 2026 The 2026 Irving S. Gilmore International Piano Festival will feature the finest international pianists playing classical, jazz, and pop music. The piano will be center stage for Gilmore-commissioned world premieres, free community concerts, films, musical theatre and so much more. This year, GRCC is participating in the festival for the first time. Kent Philharmonic Orchestra (KPO) will be on stage May 8 at St. Cecilia with Elliot Wuu , playing Grieg’s “Piano Concerto in A Minor.” So what, you might ask, is Kent Philharmonic Orchestra, and how is it connected to GRCC? “We are the best-kept 50 year old secret in Grand Rapids,” said Ed Millermaier, Board Chair of KPO and a viola player himself. “The orchestra operates through GRCC, which provides funding for the conductor, rehearsal space and support services. Our membership is made up of GRCC music students and community members who love music. Their enthusiasm is the reason we have lasted for so long.”   Growth of the Orchestra The conductor is none other than the highly-acclaimed Dr. Libor Ondras , who sees the orchestra as an incubator for musicians and a place for continuous learning. “This is a safe place in which to learn,” Ondras said. “We provide the instruction and rehearsal time for people to grow in their artistry and abilities while tackling an exciting repertoire. As a result, we have been able to play with distinguished soloists and help launch careers. For instance, Palo Dara, who won our concerto competition a few years ago, just made it into the Chicago Symphony. Elliott Wuu is another great example. He was a 2018 Gilmore Young Artist and now is an internationally-acclaimed pianist. Our musicians are reaching new heights they never thought they could attain.” This growth did not happen overnight. “It took a few years to build the momentum and excitement we needed in order to advance,” Ondras said. “I incorporate strategies that break the rehearsal process into incremental steps, while insisting on impeccable execution because that is what great music deserves. It validates not only our respect for the music, but equally the faith in our capacity to rise to that level. Our progress became crystal clear to me a few weeks ago, when we ran out of chairs for rehearsal!”   A Win-Win Collaboration  Although the Gilmore is an internationally-acclaimed organization, the performance side of the Festival has been firmly rooted in Kalamazoo. Recently, their board has been exploring opportunities to reach out, both in Michigan and beyond. When Millermaier moved from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids, he saw the potential synergy between Gilmore and KPO. “I called Pierre (executive and artistic director of the Festival) to pitch the collaboration idea,” Millermaier said. “KPO has the talent and the leadership to play with emerging artists. We perform at St. Cecilia, which is a coveted performance venue. The Gilmore wants to expand and develop audiences. This is a win-win for everyone.” Millermaier extended the invitation for a Gilmore artist play with KPO last year and that sealed the deal. He hopes that this is the beginning of a long relationship. “KPO is a place where students can learn to play full symphonic works while developing a  musical network,” Millermaier said. “Libor has been a catalyst for affirmation and growth. We’ve seen a surge of young players joining the orchestra and everyone is excited about the potential. This is a wonderful way to elevate the quality of the GRCC music program while giving musicians a place to play repertoire they might not otherwise have the chance to experience.”   Dr. Ondras has intentionally cultivated the orchestra and its capabilities to reach this point. “It’s a tremendous honor to play under the auspices of the Gilmore Festival,” he said. “That’s a challenge we are ready and eager to accept, because it is another rung in the ladder of growth. This year, our musicians are learning to accompany soloists playing concertos. We’re filling the gap between a college symphony and a professional symphony, providing quality experiences and training that are accessible. In the process, we are building a network of lasting relationships that showcases the role of KPO in the community.” Tickets to KPO at the Gilmore Festival are available through GRCC Music’s event platform Ludus . This story was reported by Julie Hordyk.