Skip to main content
ToggleMenu

Celebrating the Class of 2025: Honoring graduates and award winners at Commencement

April 17, 2025 The Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) 2025 Commencement ceremony is just around the corner, and excitement is building as the college prepares to celebrate the accomplishments of its graduates. This year's ceremony, which will take place at Van Andel Arena, marks a significant milestone as more than 1,800 students will have earned a degree or certificate in fields ranging from psychology to automotive technology. In addition to honoring the graduates, GRCC is set to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the college and the community. These award recipients exemplify the values of leadership, inclusivity and commitment that GRCC holds dear. Graduates of Excellence: Shining stars of the Class of 2025 Among the many graduates being celebrated, GRCC will recognize the Graduates of Excellence — students chosen for their exceptional academic achievements and leadership within their respective schools. This year’s Graduates of Excellence include:   Diego Munoz , earning an Associate degree in Industrial Maintenance Technology from the School of Business and Industry.   Lance Benedict Baje , graduating with a degree in Radiologic Technology from the School of Health Sciences.   Coral De La Garza Ramos , earning an Associate degree in Pre-Social Work from the School of Liberal Arts.   Benjamin Lambright , graduating with a Pre-Engineering degree from the School of STEM.   Trent Renner , earning a Computer Support Technician Certificate from the School of Workforce Training. These students have demonstrated outstanding academic work and perseverance, and they stand as an inspiration to their peers. Distinguished award winners: Honoring excellence beyond graduation In addition to recognizing the graduates, GRCC will honor individuals who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to the college and the broader community. These distinguished award winners have played a vital role in advancing GRCC’s mission and shaping its legacy. GRCC Champion Award — Mayor Emeritus Rosalynn Bliss   This year’s GRCC Champion Award honors Mayor Emeritus Rosalynn Bliss in recognition of her exceptional service to the Grand Rapids community. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the college’s mission and have made a significant difference in the community. Noorthoek Academy Honorary Graduates — Gabe McDonald and Emily Shanahan GRCC is also proud to recognize two honorary graduates from the Noorthoek Academy — Gabe McDonald and Emily Shanahan. These individuals have shown immense dedication to lifelong learning, and GRCC’s partnership with Noorthoek Academy continues to provide adults with learning challenges and intellectual disabilities the opportunity to pursue a college education.  Young Alumni Award — Chef Darrin Mayweather   The 2025 Young Alumni Award goes to Chef Darrin Mayweather, a GRCC graduate who has made significant contributions to his field and the community. After earning his degree from GRCC’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, Chef Mayweather co-founded a successful catering business, Social Arts, LLC, and now teaches as an adjunct professor at GRCC. His passion for culinary arts and commitment to mentoring future chefs embodies the values of GRCC’s alumni community. Faculty Emeritus Award — Chef Angus Campbell   The 2025 Faculty Emeritus Award honors Chef Angus Campbell, a former GRCC professor who shaped the culinary arts program for over 25 years. Chef Angus, originally from Scotland, introduced students to the art of cooking through immersive, hands-on experiences. His legacy includes not only teaching but also leading international culinary tours and hosting competitions. Chef Angus’s passion for education and culinary excellence has left an indelible mark on GRCC. A future of success: Graduates of GRCC As the graduates of the Class of 2025 prepare to walk across the stage, the ceremony is not just about recognizing their academic success, but also celebrating the bright futures that lie ahead. GRCC graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their careers, and the college is proud to support them as they take this next step. Whether they are entering the workforce or continuing their education, the Class of 2025 is poised to make an impact in their chosen fields.

Dean of the School of Business and Industry announced

Dr. Wesley Fox has accepted the position of dean of the School of Business and Industry. Dr. Fox's start date with us will be on Monday, August 4.    Dr. Fox has over 20 years of experience in higher education, criminal justice and business administration. He has served as interim dean of Professional Development and Graduate Studies at Talladega College and dean of faculty at Miami Dade College, overseeing academic programs, curriculum development, faculty management and accreditation. He has extensive teaching experience in criminal justice, business and management, instructing undergraduate and graduate courses in criminology, criminal law, organizational behavior and strategic management. He has taught at Talladega College, Middlesex Community College and Southwest Tennessee Community College, with experience in online education and curriculum alignment. Dr. Fox has led program development, student retention strategies and community engagement. He has supervised the Second Chance Pell program, led accreditation efforts and secured grants for academic initiatives. His workforce development experience includes partnerships with law enforcement agencies, aviation programs and corporate training. He holds a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership and has contributed to research, accreditation, and faculty development. His expertise includes curriculum development, policy implementation and strategic planning in higher education. He is affiliated with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Alpha Phi Sigma and multiple advisory boards.    

Rotaract Club placing clothes bins around campus to collect items for GRCC From One to Another thrift shop

Summer and fall semester The Rotaract Club is a GRCC student organization that does outreach for different programs and connects college students to one another. Steven Nkurunziza, the vice president of the Rotaract Club, and its members have distributed clothes bins to the following departments: Biology office, Math, English, Nursing, Business and ATC.  The bins are for donations for the GRCC  From One to Another thrift shop , located in the Student Life and Leadership office, next to the pantry. It is a free of charge, donation only clothes store for GRCC students, staff and faculty. We are asking for clothes of all sizes and seasons, household items, coats and jackets, shoes, bags, towels, sheets and blankets. Please be sure the towels and blankets are new or gently used, and please be sure all items are clean.  The bins will be checked weekly and will remain for the summer and fall semester. Please contact the student resource coordinator at  ocreacollier@grcc.edu  if you have any questions or concerns.  Household items that are accepted Covers/blankets Curtains Pots/pans Cups Kitchen utensils Very small appliances (toaster, nutri-bullet, waffle iron, etc.) Blow dryer/curling irons Suitcases/duffle bags Picture frames Bathroom décor Small lamps School supplies Household items NOT accepted Refrigerator Microwaves Large kitchen appliances Tables Large shelves Baskets or totes Large yard tools (lawnmower, snow blower, etc) Mattresses Dressers/Cabinets  
Transfer