8 Notable Grand Valley State University Alumni To Know

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Grand Valley State University (GVSU) is a public liberal arts university located in Allendale, Michigan. With a strong reputation for academic excellence and a wide range of programs, GVSU has produced many successful and notable alumni across various fields. Here are 8 notable Grand Valley State University alumni to know:

The university's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment has enabled its graduates to excel in their chosen careers. From business and politics to arts and entertainment, GVSU alumni have made significant contributions to their respective fields. In this article, we will explore the achievements and stories of 8 notable Grand Valley State University alumni who have made a lasting impact.

1. Mark Murray - News Director and Journalist

Mark Murray is a renowned journalist and news director who has worked for NBC News and other prominent media outlets. He has covered numerous high-profile events, including presidential elections and natural disasters. Murray's impressive career in journalism is a testament to the strong foundation he received at GVSU.

Early Life and Education

Murray earned his Bachelor's degree in Journalism from Grand Valley State University in 1997. During his time at GVSU, he was actively involved in the university's student media, which helped him develop his writing and reporting skills.

Career Highlights

Murray's extensive experience in journalism has taken him to various parts of the country, covering significant events and stories. Some of his notable career highlights include working as a news director for NBC News and covering the 2012 presidential election.

2. Kristin Austin - Business Owner and Entrepreneur

Kristin Austin is a successful business owner and entrepreneur who has founded several companies, including a marketing firm and a non-profit organization. Her accomplishments demonstrate the versatility and determination of GVSU alumni.

Early Life and Education

Austin earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Grand Valley State University in 2005. During her time at GVSU, she was actively involved in various business organizations and internships, which helped her develop her entrepreneurial skills.

Career Highlights

Austin's entrepreneurial spirit has led her to establish several successful businesses, including a marketing firm and a non-profit organization. Her achievements have been recognized through various awards and nominations.

3. Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley - Politician

Brian Calley is an American politician who served as the 51st Lieutenant Governor of Michigan from 2011 to 2019. His experience in public service demonstrates the strong leadership skills and dedication to public policy that GVSU alumni possess.

Early Life and Education

Calley earned his Bachelor's degree in Finance from Grand Valley State University in 1998. During his time at GVSU, he was actively involved in student government and various community organizations, which helped him develop his leadership skills.

Career Highlights

Calley's career in public service has spanned over two decades, including his tenure as Lieutenant Governor of Michigan. He has been a strong advocate for various policy initiatives, including education reform and economic development.

4. Michael Obizinski - Business Owner and Entrepreneur

Michael Obizinski is a successful business owner and entrepreneur who has founded several companies, including a technology firm and a real estate investment company. His accomplishments demonstrate the innovative spirit and determination of GVSU alumni.

Early Life and Education

Obizinski earned his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Grand Valley State University in 2002. During his time at GVSU, he was actively involved in various technology organizations and internships, which helped him develop his programming skills.

Career Highlights

Obizinski's entrepreneurial spirit has led him to establish several successful businesses, including a technology firm and a real estate investment company. His achievements have been recognized through various awards and nominations.

5. Alecia Shipman - Artist and Educator

Alecia Shipman is a talented artist and educator who has exhibited her work in various galleries and museums. Her achievements demonstrate the creativity and passion of GVSU alumni in the arts.

Early Life and Education

Shipman earned her Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Grand Valley State University in 2008. During her time at GVSU, she was actively involved in various art organizations and internships, which helped her develop her artistic skills.

Career Highlights

Shipman's artistic talents have been recognized through various exhibitions and awards. She has also worked as an educator, teaching art classes to students of all ages.

6. Ryan Vaughn - Business Owner and Entrepreneur

Ryan Vaughn is a successful business owner and entrepreneur who has founded several companies, including a marketing firm and a technology startup. His accomplishments demonstrate the innovative spirit and determination of GVSU alumni.

Early Life and Education

Vaughn earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Grand Valley State University in 2010. During his time at GVSU, he was actively involved in various business organizations and internships, which helped him develop his entrepreneurial skills.

Career Highlights

Vaughn's entrepreneurial spirit has led him to establish several successful businesses, including a marketing firm and a technology startup. His achievements have been recognized through various awards and nominations.

7. Mark Sullivan - Athlete and Coach

Mark Sullivan is a talented athlete and coach who has competed in various sports, including football and track and field. His achievements demonstrate the athletic prowess and dedication of GVSU alumni.

Early Life and Education

Sullivan earned his Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Grand Valley State University in 2005. During his time at GVSU, he was a member of the university's athletic teams and developed his coaching skills.

Career Highlights

Sullivan's athletic career has included competing in various sports, including football and track and field. He has also worked as a coach, leading teams to victory in several championships.

8. Danielle McIntosh - Business Owner and Entrepreneur

Danielle McIntosh is a successful business owner and entrepreneur who has founded several companies, including a marketing firm and a fashion boutique. Her accomplishments demonstrate the innovative spirit and determination of GVSU alumni.

Early Life and Education

McIntosh earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Grand Valley State University in 2012. During her time at GVSU, she was actively involved in various business organizations and internships, which helped her develop her entrepreneurial skills.

Career Highlights

McIntosh's entrepreneurial spirit has led her to establish several successful businesses, including a marketing firm and a fashion boutique. Her achievements have been recognized through various awards and nominations.

These 8 notable Grand Valley State University alumni are just a few examples of the many successful and accomplished individuals who have graduated from the university. Their achievements demonstrate the strong foundation and opportunities provided by GVSU, and serve as inspiration to current and future students.

We hope you enjoyed this article about the notable alumni of Grand Valley State University. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about GVSU, please feel free to ask in the comments below.