Grand Valley State University’s President, Thomas J. Haas, is celebrating 10 years on the job. With record-breaking enrollment and an impressive graduation rate in the state, Haas explains what makes it possible.
“Developing the culture of planning is probably the most rewarding part of these past 10 years.” Grand Valley State University President Thomas J. Haas says it begins with a strategic planning process setting the stage for student success.
Introducing 30 new majors and investing in growth areas like health sciences and nursing. “One of the things we can never lose sight of is our liberal arts foundation. That distinguishes our graduates because he or she are going to develop a good work ethic that’s founded on great critical thinking and an ability to communicate, work within the global environment.”
T-Haas, as he’s known by the student body, says the Grand Finish, a grant for seniors graduating in four years, is his greatest accomplishment helping to lower cost while promoting one of the state’s best graduation rates. GVSU is in the top three of all Michigan public universities.
Haas says the university’s success have come while state support was eroding. Through it all, GVSU continues to set record enrollment now with 25, 460 students.
Patrick Center, WGVU News.