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GRCC Alum Tara Huskey Earns Prestigious Global Graduate Scholarship

Grand Rapids Community College alum Tara Huskey has been awarded the highly competitive Jack Kent Cooke Graduate Scholarship, placing her among just 146 recipients worldwide. The scholarship will fully support Huskey as she pursues a master’s degree in Athletic Training at the University of South Florida, covering the full cost of her graduate education. Huskey graduated from GRCC in 2024 and was a member of the college’s Honors Program. During her time at GRCC, she demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to academic excellence, leadership and service. This new recognition builds on an already remarkable achievement. In 2024, Huskey was also selected as a recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, one of the nation’s most prestigious scholarships for community college students. That award provides up to $55,000 per year for two to three years to complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited four-year institution in the United States. While at GRCC, Huskey pursued an associate degree in exercise science and made a lasting impact across campus. She was active in the Honors Program, founded and served as president of the Fitness Club student organization, worked as a biology tutor and participated in a summer research program with Michigan Technological University. Her passion for health, wellness and helping others has guided her academic path and career aspirations in athletic training. Huskey’s continued success highlights the power of community college pathways and the impact of the GRCC community in supporting ambitious students as they pursue their goals. Stay tuned — we’ll be sharing more soon about Tara’s inspiring journey and the impact she continues to make beyond GRCC.

Share Your Voice: Help GRCC Shine During Community College Month

Grand Rapids Community College has been recognized as a 2026 Leader College by Achieving the Dream (ATD), and now ATD is inviting us to help spotlight the people behind that success. As part of Community College Month in April, Achieving the Dream will feature short quotes from faculty, staff, students and leaders across its Leader Colleges, highlighting the everyday work that drives student success. GRCC is encouraged to submit quotes from across our campus community that reflect how we support students, remove barriers and create meaningful learning experiences. This is a great opportunity to elevate GRCC’s work on a national stage, and it only takes a few minutes to participate. What ATD Is Looking For ATD will be sharing weekly content throughout April focused on these themes: Leaders Listen – How student voices help shape policies and practices Students Speak – Students reflecting on their experiences at GRCC Teaching That Transforms – Faculty perspectives on student-centered teaching Support in Action – Advisors and staff removing barriers to student success Quotes may come from leaders, faculty, staff or students and should reflect real, on-the-ground experiences at GRCC. Submission Guidelines Quotes must be 50 words or fewer Multiple submissions from across the college are encouraged Priority will be given to quotes submitted with a headshot and photo release form Headshots should be high-resolution, color photos with a neutral background All submissions must be made using ATD’s official form Deadline to submit: March 12, 2026 Selected submissions will be featured on Achieving the Dream’s social media channels, and contributors whose quotes are chosen will be notified directly by ATD. How to Participate If you’re interested in submitting a quote, or know a colleague or student whose voice should be shared, please complete the  Community College Month Quote Submission Form by March 12. Let’s come together to showcase the people and practices that earned GRCC its 2026 Leader College designation and to celebrate the impact we make for students every day!    

Campus Race to Zero Waste Update and Garbage Tour

Go GRCC! We are four weeks into the Campus Race to Zero Waste Competition and 16,689 pounds of paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metal have been recycled. That is over 8 tons of materials that will have a “useful” second life instead of heading to the landfill.   Check the digital signs around campus for weekly progress updates from the Communications team! We are ahead of where we were last year at this time. There are still four more weeks to go. Keep recycling! It really makes a difference. Interested in learning more about recycling? Wondering what the “useful” second life of recycled materials looks like? Curious about what happens when the recycled materials arrive at the Kent County Recycling and Education Center?  If so, then Join Us for an Eye-Opening Tour on Waste Reduction March 13 ! Check out the information for this action-packed professional development and sign up! There are still seats available. Lunch is provided and it counts towards four hours of professional development.

Professional Development (PD) Opportunity: Insights Into GRCC- Enhancing Understanding Through Data Literacy March 18

Institutional Research invites the campus community to a professional development session, “Insights into GRCC: Enhancing Understanding through Data Literacy,” on March 18 from 11 AM to noon.  This session is designed to enhance participants’ understanding of GRCC's new strategic plan metrics  dashboard , while equipping them to make data-informed decisions and contribute to advancing the college's strategic initiatives. To register, please sign up through the Online Center. For any questions, email  IR@grcc.edu .

Supervisor Technology Training with IT March 24

New to a supervisory role at GRCC, or looking for a refresher on key technology processes? Join Supervisor Technology Training with IT, an in-person session designed to help supervisors confidently navigate the systems and tools used to support their teams. March 24 9–11 a.m. Facilitated by Jacob Barczak Register through the Online Center In this session, you’ll learn how to use the IT Services Portal (TeamDynamix), complete Network Account Provisioning (NAP) forms for hires and transfers, manage Google Groups and Shared Drives, and understand IT processes for onboarding, offboarding, equipment and data security. The training also covers supervisor tools in the Online Center, including approving timesheets and leave requests. Whether you are new to supervision or want a clearer understanding of GRCC’s technology processes, this session will give you the foundation you need to support your team effectively.  

Sign up Today for the Adult CPR, First Aid and AED Certification on March 23!

Last month we recognized Heart Health Awareness Month, now let’s keep the momentum going!  The Talent Development team is pleased to offer an Adult CPR, First Aid & AED Certification course on March 23, 2026, from 1–5 PM. The session is facilitated by Go Rescue, LLC and follows the American Red Cross curriculum. This hands-on training will give you the skills and confidence to respond in an emergency at work, at home, or anywhere you’re needed. Participants will receive a certificate upon successful completion. Spots are limited! Building Managers across campuses are especially encouraged to attend to help strengthen on-site emergency preparedness. Sign up today in the Online Center!

Grand Rapids Community College Recognized by Achieving the Dream as a 2026 Leader College

March 4, 2026 Grand Rapids Community College earned designation as a  2026 Leader College by  Achieving the Dream (ATD), a national organization committed to advancing community colleges as accessible hubs of learning, credentialing and economic mobility. “Being named a 2026 Leader College by Achieving the Dream affirms the intentional, student-centered work happening across Grand Rapids Community College every day,” said Dr. Sheila Jones, provost and executive vice president of Academic and Student Affairs of GRCC. “This recognition reflects our commitment to equity-minded practices, fostering collaboration and a data-informed culture that removes barriers, strengthens student success from the start and ensures every learner has the support they need to reach their goals.” Leader Colleges are recognized for meaningful progress in expanding access; improving early momentum metrics, such as retention; advancing relevant student success strategies with evidence of implementation and early results; and growing institutional capacity through culture and capacity-building efforts.  Grand Rapids Community College has been part of the ATD Network since 2010. “The 2026 Leader Colleges demonstrate sustained commitment and measurable progress in advancing student success,” said Dr. Karen A. Stout, president and CEO of Achieving the Dream. “By using data to guide decisions and continuously strengthen their practices, these institutions are producing real gains in student outcomes, strengthening their practices, and deepening their impact in the communities they serve. Their leadership sets a powerful example for colleges across the ATD Network, reflecting the focus, discipline and follow-through required to achieve lasting institutional change.”

Center for High-Impact Experiences Launches Learning Communities to Strengthen Student Success

Grand Rapids Community College’s new Center for High-Impact Experiences (formerly Experiential Learning) is expanding opportunities for students through the launch of Learning Communities — a new, collaborative approach to teaching and learning designed to build connection, belonging and academic success. Learning Communities are one of several new and expanded initiatives housed within the Center, which brings together experiential learning, service learning, honors, community engagement and undergraduate research under one umbrella. While the Center’s work is student-focused, faculty play a critical role as the drivers of these high-impact experiences. What Learning Communities Are Learning Communities pair two linked courses, such as an English class and a Psychology class, and enroll the same group of students in both courses. Faculty teaching the paired classes intentionally connect elements of their curriculum, creating shared assignments, activities and learning experiences. This model creates a small cohort of students who learn together, engage more deeply with course content and develop stronger connections with peers and faculty. Key features of Learning Communities include: Shared curriculum design across two courses Opportunities for class trips, guest speakers and service learning Increased collaboration between faculty A built-in sense of community and belonging for students Why Learning Communities Matter Learning Communities are widely recognized as a high-impact educational practice. Research shows that students who participate in cohort-based, collaborative learning experiences are more likely to stay engaged, persist and succeed, particularly in their first year. At GRCC, Learning Communities also align with broader goals around: Student success and retention Faculty innovation in teaching and learning Increased engagement inside and outside the classroom Importantly, Learning Communities have never been offered at GRCC before, making this an exciting new opportunity for both faculty and students. What’s Launching and When The Center for High-Impact Experiences plans to pilot one to two Learning Communities in Fall 2026. Work is currently underway to finalize processes. Faculty will be invited to express interest and help shape the first Learning Communities while the Center builds the infrastructure needed to support long-term growth. How Faculty Can Get Involved Faculty are encouraged to start thinking now about: Course pairings that could naturally align Opportunities to integrate experiential or service-based learning Ways Learning Communities could enhance student engagement in their disciplines Additional information, including interest forms and timelines, will be shared in the coming months as planning continues. Part of a Broader Vision Learning Communities are one piece of the Center for High-Impact Experiences’ broader mission to expand access to meaningful learning opportunities at GRCC. Other initiatives include expanded service learning, new volunteer opportunities, undergraduate research, study away experiences and a new, college-wide Student Showcase. Together, these efforts position GRCC as a place where students don’t just attend classes, they engage, connect and thrive.

Campus Common Reading: Grassroots Democracy Presentation March 18

  Anthropological Perspectives on Local Grassroots Democracy This program will connect this year's campus common reading, Grand Rapids Grassroots: An Anthology, with anthropological perspectives on the City of Grand Rapids. The goal will be to model ways that participants in the common reading program can use this year's reading to reflect upon broader social and cultural patterns within the City of Grand Rapids. Date: Wednesday, March 18 Time: Noon-1:30 p.m. Location: ATC Auditorium (Room 168) Hosted by: Campus Common Reading Committee Sponsors and Partners: Library and Learning Commons, Social Science Department, LSA Transfer Bridges University of Michigan Program, Woodrick Center of Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs Presenter: Dr. Dillon Carr Open to the public and admission is free. About the Campus Common Reading Initiative  The 2026-2027  Campus Common Reading Initiative is a three-phase exploration of history and democracy that intentionally connects the 175th anniversary of Grand Rapids, the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 112th anniversary of Grand Rapids Community College. The project begins with local grassroots movements in Grand Rapids, expands to examine the city’s contributions to American history and concludes by reflecting on GRCC’s role in shaping the lives of people locally and nationally. Grand Rapids Grassroots: An Anthology  is available for free to GRCC students and staff. Pick up your copy in the Library (RJF 5th Floor) or in the office at the Lakeshore campus. The book is also available to read online:  Grand Rapids Grassroots: An Anthology Contact Sophia Brewer (616) 234-3867 or Dr. Dillon Carr (616) 234-4284 with any questions.  Past Presentation Roots of Resistance: Women Activists during the Progressive Era in Grand Rapids Sophia Ward Brewer highlighted Grassroot efforts from women activists in Grand Rapids during the Progressive Era, including Black women whose collective action addressed education, housing, health and civil rights.  

New Psychology Pre-Majors Offer Specialized Paths and Practical Experience

March 3, 2026 Last fall, GRCC’s Psychology department introduced two new programs to help students tailor the community college experience toward their long-term goals. The Pre-Neuroscience program offers an interdisciplinary approach to the field while students in the Pre-Psychology Behavior Analysis program gain valuable clinical experience.  Both programs offer specialized pathways for students to transfer to a four-year institution and then into a variety of careers, including neuroscience, health care, behavior analysis, research and more.  Build Interdisciplinary Connections With the Pre-Neuroscience Program Neuroscience explores the structure and function of the nervous system. By studying small molecular and cellular activity all the way up to complex behavioral processes, neuroscientists learn how the nervous system develops, how it malfunctions and what we can do to improve health and well-being. “A lot of people just think of the clinical side of psychology,” said Julia Carey, who leads the GRCC Psychology department. “But, neuroscience is a fascinating field that combines principles from biology, psychology, chemistry and medicine to understand how the brain and nervous system influence thoughts, emotions and actions.” In addition to standard psychology courses, students in the Pre-Neuroscience program will also take biology and chemistry classes. “We designed a specialized curriculum to help students understand how anatomy relates to our psychological experiences,” said Carey. “Whether it’s hands-on work with brain model puzzles or dissecting a sheep brain in the biology lab, there are lots of memorable learning experiences.” Learn More About the Pre-Neuroscience, A.A. Program Gain Practical Experience With Pre-Psychology Behavior Analysis The field of behavior analysis is all about studying the way people behave and learn. It focuses on identifying and understanding environmental factors that influence behavior and applies this knowledge to bring about positive changes.  Behavior analysts work with both adults and children in a variety of clinical and educational settings. The pre-major program at GRCC includes a practicum, which provides students a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the field. During the practicum, students work 10 hours a week at local behavioral clinics. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst supervises students as they apply behavior analysis and behavior management principles to improve the social, academic and adaptive behavior of individuals diagnosed with autism or other developmental disabilities.   After the practicum, students are eligible to sit for the  Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam. An RBT certification leads to higher-paying jobs and gives students options to work in the field while they continue their education.  “This pre-major is a unique offering for a community college,” said Sophie Rubin, associate professor at GRCC. “We are one of two community colleges with this program and we’re excited to give students a learning experience they wouldn’t normally have until a bachelor’s program.”  Learn More About the Pre-Psychology Behavior Analysis, A.A. Program Experienced Faculty and Easy Transfer Prepares Students for Success Both the Pre-Neuroscience and Pre-Psychology Behavior Analysis programs were developed by experienced GRCC faculty who are passionate about the field of psychology and making education and career opportunities accessible for all students.  Julia Carey led the development of the Pre-Neuroscience program. She earned  Ph.D.s in neuroscience and psychology from University of Colorado Boulder and has been at GRCC for eight years. Sophie Rubin has a Ph.D in psychology from Western Michigan University and is a licensed psychologist in the state of Michigan with clinical experience in behavioral psychology. Rubin has taught at GRCC for 14 years and pioneered the Pre-Psychology Behavior Analysis program. “We’re setting students up for success with these new psychology programs,” said Carey. “It’s a great option for anyone who knows they want to study psychology, but might not have a clear idea of what that looks like. Our programs help learners explore different career pathways and even enter the workforce as a Registered Behavior Technician. By the time they transfer to a four-year institution, they are well-prepared to achieve their long-term goals.”
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