Grand Valley Lanthorn Vol. 55 No. 2

G R A N D VA L L E Y L A N T H O R N

A masked move-in Students express excitement, nerves amid fall move-in

Four Steps Apart: Capturing the passion of the Laker Marching Band MUSIC | A11

GV Basketball’s Christian Negron talks BLM, NBA activism and the fight for police reform BASKETBALL| A14

M O N D A Y, A U G U ST 3 1 , 2 02 0 // VO L . 5 5 N O. 2

@ GV L A N T H O R N

LANTHORN.COM

A2 | NEWS NEWS BRIEF GV DEBUTS NEWEST LAKER LINE BUSSING SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS

On Aug. 24, the ceremony was held to mark the official launch of the Laker Line at the Pew Station on Fulton Street. The event also celebrated the 20th anniversary of the formalized partnership between Grand Valley and The Rapid.

There were over 80 people at the ceremony to celebrate the university’slatest prohect aimed at making traveling for students easier througbout the year.

The new line replaces Route 50 connecting GV’s Allendale Campus to downtown Grand Rapids. Greg Sanial, vice president for Finance and Administration, said the Laker Line was more than seven years in the making.

“We appreciate the efforts and cooperation of all those who helped make this possible,” said Sanial. “With more than 2 million rides per year, the Laker Line is essential to the Grand Valley community and will improve the quality of life for our students.”

The $71 million Laker Line includes 20 stops along the way including the Pew Grand Rapids Campus and the Health Campus on the Medical Mile, and is seven years in the making.

The new busses are 60-foot-long, with dual boarding and wider doors for quicker boarding and will hold 50 percent more riders. Bus stations include seats, shelters snowmelt and raised platforms so riders don’t have to step up to get on the bus.

Enhancements also include traffic signal priority technology that will allow buses to flow through traffic more efficiently.

GV SEES SUCCESSFUL FRESHMAN MOVE-IN DAYS

More than 5,000 new and returning Grand Valley students moved to campus August 23-27, with students and their supporters assisting with move-in required to complete the Lakers Together Daily SelfAssessment before arriving on campus.

The pre-move in list provided by the Housing department included check-in, room condition reports, testing dining cards, planning your class routes, obtaining a parking pass, and attending the floor meetings, among others. All campus vistors and residents were required to wear masks indoors and around others.

This year, GVSU will have 21,112 undergraduate students and2,921 graduate students.

With students representing 79 different countries on campus. GV has been votes as a top university for inclusivity multiple times in the last few years, On campus, there are 5 different living center styles to choose from, and 87% of first-year students normally opt to live on campus.

Overall, even despite COVID-19 many students were eager to get into their dorms.

One freshman student said she had been looking forward to move-in all summer.

“I definitely feel a little nervous, but I think this year will be a good one even with everything going on,” she said. “I’m looking forward to starting college, even if it is a lot more different than I thought it was going to be.”

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

HEALTH

COVID-19 at GV: Testing, Kent County case numbers, key info

NEW TESTING LOCATIONS: Various Family Fare locations are providing free COVID-19 testing throughout the year for students. GVL | SHIEILA BABBIT

BY ZSOLT PALMER NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

This year is very different from the normal start to a fall semester. In the shadow of COVID-19, Grand Valley State University is embarking on an unprecedented academic year, leaving many students to wonder about what is to come. What do the coronavirus numbers look like in our community? What will they look like in the future? What can students do to stop the spread of the virus?

The disease has already established itself in Michigan, and in local counties. As of Aug. 30, there have been 8,409 cases in Kent County since the pandemic began, and in Michigan overall, there have been over 112,000 cases. Though daily numbers have been stabilizing recently, as the state heads back to school, many consider it to be a question of if, not when, the numbers will rise again.

When asked for his opinions on how the virus will spread in the coming months, Dr. Doug Graham, a member of GVSU’s Virus Action team, had this to say: “That’s the $64,000 question. Nationwide, as schools and universities reopen this fall, it’s pretty much inevitable that we’ll see increased transmission. This has already happened in some areas, forcing some universities to go completely on-line. Some, but not all: every campus situation is different,” Graham said. “Ultimately, the rate and extent of viral spread within the GVSU community will be a direct function of how well we collectively comply with the mitigation measures that have been put in place like mask-wearing, social distancing, self-assessment, and testing.”

As we can see, the risk that the virus enters the GVSU community is a real one. But what can be done to help mitigate such a risk? Dr. Graham said testing is one of the

primary means in controlling the virus’s spread. Asked about the importance of COVID-19 testing in the student body, and asymptomatic cases among young people can affect case numbers.

“Regular testing makes it possible to monitor the prevalence and spread of the virus in our community. This kind of surveillance is absolutely critical in a pandemic like this one.

With a combined campus population around 27,000, it’s probably inevitable that the coronavirus makes its way onto campus, likely via asymptomatic infections.”

“In such cases, being able to promptly identify these folks and place them in isolation will significantly limit the virus’ ability to gain a foothold in the GVSU community. A robust testing program—and strong compliance with it—will be central to this effort.”

Indeed, foremost among various preventative measures is testing for the disease itself, which allows for targeted quarantines and contact tracing. This is key to prevent COVID-19 clusters from developing on the GVSU campus. Outside of GVSU’s testing program, there exist various options in the Allendale and greater Grand Rapids area where free COVID-19 tests are available.

The Kent County Health Department Fuller Clinic represents a Grand Rapids location that provides free testing. Located at 700 Fuller NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, free testing is available there on Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m - 11:30 am, and 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Testing is administered with the Nasopharyngeal Swab, and test results can be expected between 24-72 hours.

It is important to note that you must register to receive one of the free tests beforehand.

Registration can be completed at the Access Kent website under their COVID-19 section, or by calling 616-632-7200 to schedule a test.

More testing locations in Kent county can be

found on the Access Kent Website.

There are free COVID-19 testing places closer to the main campus in Allendale.

Thanks to SpartanNash partnering with the Department of Health and Human Services, various Family Fare locations are providing free COVID-19 testing. Registration for one of these tests can be done on the Family Fare website. The nearest of these locations is the Family Fare at 6370 Lake Michigan Drive. The tests are self-administered nasal swabs, guided by Spartan Nash pharmacists. The results can be expected within three to five days.

Dr. Doug Graham said that observing and tracking how many students are gathering in what numbers is important to controlling and minimizing the virus’s threat to campus, and that students should be wary of how much interaction they are having with fellow students, professors and staff, and taking the proper precatuions when doing so.

“COVID-19 can seep into a susceptible population through any number of chance, unwitting transmission events, but hands down the biggest threat to keeping everyone on campus is the one-two punch of large gatherings where many of the participants aren’t wearing face masks,” Dr. Graham said. “These ‘super spreader’ situations can greatly amplify viral spread, and the obvious way to circumvent this is to do the opposite: be conscientious about wearing a mask and avoid concentrated gatherings, especially where many of the partakers aren’t wearing masks, especially if they’re indoors.”

Should students suspect they might have COVID-19, or suspect they may have been in contact with someone who has, they are strongly encouraged to use the resources of these free testing sites, and to notify GVSU immediately.

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

CONTENTS HEALTH

| A2

EDITORIAL

| A4

ACADEMICS

| A6

FUNDRAISER

| A10

HOUSING

| A8-9

PERFORMANCE

| A12

PRESPECTIVES

| A13

BASKETBALL

| A14

CLUB SPORTS

| A16

VOL. 55

NO. 2

Lan thorn EDITORIAL STAFF

Layout Editor VIVIANA RUBIO

Editor-in-Chief NICK MORAN Associate Editor KELLEN VOSS

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WELCOME

GV Convocation 2020: Mantella seeks joy in unprecedented times

BY TREVOR HUBERT NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

As GVSU, along with every other school in the country, begins to traverse the uncharted waters of COVID-19 learning, this year’s Convocation ceremony sported a very different look from years prior. The class of 2024 did not pack the fieldhouse, and the few faculty in attendance were all masked up.

After a brief message reminding students of new pandemic protocols, the virtual convocation opened with a performance from the GVSU Laker Marching Band on the north lawn of campus, followed by opening remarks by University Academic Senate Chair Felix Ngassa.

“To me, this pandemic has been a lesson in adapting, rolling with the punches and learning resilience,” Ngassa said. “We are called to learn from this unprecedented time and alter our actions and attitudes to make our lives better, stronger and happier.”

He went on to welcome the class of 2024 and remind students that, “our collective actions are essential to the health and safety of us all, and to maintain the quality of this physical space.”

His speech was followed by Provost Maria Cimitile, who praised the faculty for their commitment to education and stress

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ing their importance.

“Our students need you now more than ever,” Cimitile said. “Our society needs you now more than ever.”

Student Senate Vice President of Educational Affairs Autumn Mueller geared her address to GVSU’s incoming students, encouraging them to get involved and find their passions on campus.

“Involvement could potentially leave you with some of the best memories of your life and will give you something to remember your college experience by,” Mueller said.

GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

Returning Lakers weigh in on changes in campus housing community

BUSINESS STAFF

A&E Editor MARY RACETTE

HOPEFUL: GV President Philomena Mantella gives remarks at the Virtual Convocation. GVL | GVSU

BACK TO SCHOOL

ADVERTISING STAFF

Sports Editor ZACH GOODROW Laker Life Editor YSABELA GOLDEN

A3 | NEWS

CARPOOL: Cars full of students and their families file into campus as on-campus housing prepares to fill up once again. COURTESY | GVSU

In the midst of a global pandemic, there are few things on campus that will remain “normal” as the fall 2020 semester begins. GVSU students returning to on-campus housing realized just how different life in residence halls will be during move-in week, which happened Aug. 23-27 this year.

Lindsey Schmidt moved into Niemeyer Living Center Aug. 23. Schmidt said that while she appreciates every effort to keep residents like her safe, her experience has been different from previous years in many ways.

“It’s weird to not be able to do any sort of in-person stuff like the floor meetings that we used to have in-person that we can’t have now,” Schmidt said. “It makes it seem a little bit more impersonal I guess. I don’t know the people on my floor this year like I did last year.”

Devin Walker is returning to campus for the second time as a resident assistant (RA) in Robinson living center. Walker said that although transitions, floor meetings and events will be different this year, his goals remain the same.

“A lot of what we do depends on interaction with our residents to build a community, and we just can’t do that like we used to,” Walker said. “Floor meetings and events are going online this year which is obviously going to impact us. With that being, said we’re still doing our best to build the community in our dorms.”

Walker said all students and their supporters were required to wear masks, maintain social distancing indoors, and complete a COVID-19 screening when they arrived on their scheduled move-in date and time.

“Move-in this year was pretty different than years past,” Walker said. “All the students and anyone helping them move in had to pass a self-assessment where you had to report any symptoms you’ve had in the past day or two. Once you showed you passed, you gave a staff member some form of ID and they gave you your room key in an envelope, along with some additional instructions.

Then there wasn’t anyone helping to move in like usual, families had to take stuff up to their rooms themselves.”

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

A4 | OPINION EDITORIAL

GV’s fall plan wishful thinking as other colleges face COVID-19 clusters

T

he announcement

by Grand Valley State University administrators that campus will remain open during the fall semester seems like the project of magical thinking.

Has the University somehow uncovered the secret to gathering 24,000 students on campus without spreading a disease to which there is no vaccine?

While many other universities have tried and failed to perform this miracle, GVSU seems convinced that it will buck the trend. We are not so sure.

The students who are committed to their education at this point are not gambling on COVID-19 being washed away in a handful of weeks and life returning to normal. They have accepted that life on campus will look very different, but their drive to push through it and further their education is at the forefront of their minds. They are prepared to make sacrifices.

Universities around the country have acknowledged these facts and pulled the plug on in-person education, opting for digital learning until public health is in a better spot.

There are a variety of factors that leaders need to weigh, but many schools have agreed that the hardships they will bear by moving classes online is worth keeping students healthy.

The schools that have pushed for an in-person experience have made other sacrifices.

The University of North Carolina nearly filled its COVID-19-positive living centers shortly after reopening, with 135 students testing positive as of Aug. 17. University of Alabama has seen nearly 1,300 cases among its campuses to date, according to their digital COVID-19 Dashboard.

In Michigan, a video on Twitter shows students in Central Michigan University’s

COVID-19-positive dorms gathering to leave and party, with little management of confirmed-positive students.

Albion College laid out an in-person plan, and classes yet to start, the college’s required contact-tracing app was exposed with having privacy and security flaws.

Understandably, the University also announced it would be using a web-based survey to keep students with symptoms at home. This is coupled with a health-consciousness pledge, which students may sign to promise they will adhere to university, county and state health recommendations.

Prior to the student’s return to campus, Mantella sent a letter outlining the university’s expectations from students.

“We know to wash our hands, physically distance and wear masks when indoors or within six feet,” Mantella said. “We must commit to each other that we will follow these simple guidelines to keep each other as safe as possible.”

Good intentions will reinforce good behavior from the students who are already taking their community’s health seriously, but will do little for those deadset on returning to campus for a traditional social experience. That in mind, we acknowledge that the University has rolled out tools to encourage health consciousness during this critical time.

Mandatory COVID-19 checkups through a University-mandated wellness check will be effective for students who take the time to read through the questions each day. The health pledge calls out the threats of college social life amid a pandemic.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

Do opposites still attract?: Dating the opposing party

BY EMILY EATON SENIOR POLITICAL SCIENCE EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

My dad always said to me, “Growing up, there were two things that were never to be discussed: religion and politics.” Mom said she’d ask my grandfather who he voted for, and he’d reply, “That’s none of your damn business.”

But in the age of social media, along with obvious religious overreach into government (screw the separation of church and state, I guess), the once-blurry and vague horizon of politics has turned into a steep and sudden cliff of separation. One wrong step into a parti-

san-filled relationship and down you go. But do you have to fall in – or could your opposing-views counterpart catch you?

The truth is, the daily doings of politics are much less polarized than they often appear. As a political science major at Grand Valley State University, I’ve witnessed just how boring and non-confrontational politics can be. Believe it or not, I get along extremely well with some of my Republican classmates (keyword: “some”) because of the fact that the majority of government are local, small-scale scenarios.

Daily politics includes things like what day of the week the city is sending the trucks out to collect everyone’s garbage, or picking out the swing set for the city park. I could still love a man if he didn’t want to spend taxpayer money on an enormous swing set. I’d be mad.

But I’d still love him... maybe.

However, I’d have a hard time loving a man who thinks marriage should only be between a man and a woman (once again, the government really missed the mark on the separation of church and state).

The important thing to differentiate between when choosing a potential partner who may differ politically is that they don’t differ morally.

Looking at the intent of actions

and beliefs is important. You can date an ignorant person. It’s when they’re willfully ignorant that you might be making a mistake. Do they blatantly ignore the daily injustice Black Americans face daily? Do they shout “All Lives Matter” at your support of the BLM movement?

If you feel deeply invested in politics (as you all should) does your partner listen to your thoughts? That’s important. They should also think human rights are rights, but that’s just like the freebie on the bingo card. If they tell you to pick yourself up by the bootstraps, literally throw on some tennis shoes and run in the opposite direction.

At the end of the day though, Democrats and Republicans are both corrupt in their own special ways… but it’s what we have right now. What matters is how your significant other treats you and treats others, especially others who are different from them.

I’ve said all of this, but I still wouldn’t date a Republican. I’m too far deep into the depressing pit of politics for it not to be a deal-breaker for me. But, blurry partisan lines doesn’t have to mean a breakup. You can date that fiscal conservative if you want, honey. I won’t say I told you so later on.

“I May Destroy You” brings important societal issues to light

BY SIMON WAGNER JUNIOR MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

owerful and unflinching, Michaela Coel’s stylistically raw approach to consent is extremely relevant.

Set in modern-day England, “I May Destroy You” follows the lives of three friends who, after each experiencing sexual assault, must cope with the trauma that follows. Though the plot may seem straightforward, weaved throughout each episode is a study of certain societal issues ranging from consent and assault, to exploitation and cancel culture.

Coel is a true auteur. Not only

is she the writer and creator of the series, but Coel also delivers one of the most powerful performances of the year. What Coel brings to the main character, Arabella, is something very rare. She allows the audience to feel every which way about her, and each one is justified.

You don’t get the same Arabella in every episode. In fact, with almost every episode jumping a bit in time, her evolution through selfcare is a roller coaster of emotions.

Aside from the tour de force that is Coel, one of the major standouts in this series is the emergence of actor Paapa Essiedu.

Essiedu plays Arabella’s friend, Kwame, a young gay black man who is struggling with his own experiences. Though Essiedu may not get as much screen time as he deserves, his character is key when it comes to seeing how his dating and sex life differs from those closest to him. With Kwame, we see how different it can be when it comes to reporting rape based on one’s sexual orientation and preference. Though the show isn’t necessarily focused on the police department, this one instance

shows just how unfair and inconsiderate the police can be.

Though there are many of these moments, one of the main messages is that you must check yourself when in an encounter or relationship with someone else. If you are privileged, you must put yourself into the perspective of those who aren’t and understand the threats that they live with every day. It’s not enough to say you didn’t know when we are living in an age when all you have to do is listen.

What this show does best is bring to light the pain, fear, and anger that women face in our society today. Though a change has begun towards female empowerment and gender equality, we are still a long way away from reaching the main goal. People have demanded change, and it’s time for us to do our part.

Michaela Coel is the voice of a generation begging to be heard, and as long as she’s in the driver’s seat, these societal issues will continue to be brought to light.

I May Destroy You is available now on HBO Max.

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS

A12 | ARTS SERENADES

Grand Rapids Symphony brought live music to their audience

BY ALLISON RAFFERTY ARAFFERTY@LANTHORN.COM

Despite not being able to perform altogether since March 13, the Grand Rapids Symphony still brought live music to its audience members with a series of “Sidewalk Serenades” and “Porch Concerts” throughout August.

August 2-29, members of the GR Symphony performed on audience members’ porches and driveways, bringing them the joy of live music during these difficult times.

The classical music series “Porch Concerts” typically lasted around 30 minutes, but with no set time limit, musicians were able to select their own program.

Violist and Symphony member Kristen Shoup Lausman is starting her 27th season with the GR Symphony and participated in the “Porch Concerts” series throughout the month. Lausman wanted to perform a concert in her neighborhood, but with her own home having too small of a porch, she decided to have the performance in her neighbor’s spacious driveway.

“We borrowed a tent from another neighbor and my string trio played a short concert there on Monday, Aug. 3,” Lausman said. “It was a resounding success. It was wonderful to actually bring music to the people.”

GR Symphony members who opted not to participate in the “Porch Concerts” series chose to perform in a different summer con-

cert series. One of these series was the “Sidewalk Serenades.”

“Sidewalk Serenades” began Aug. 20 and concluded on Aug. 29. The series allowed Grand Rapids residents to have their own personal concerts in their driveway for $300. Each concert allowed up to 10 audience members who were all required to wear masks.

Similar to the “Porch Concerts” series, “Sidewalk Serenades” involved a small ensemble or soloist selecting their own repertoire and performing a roughly 30-minute concert.

Vice President and General Manager of the GR Symphony, Aaron Doty, said that the idea for these smaller venue summer performances, “was a response to our community’s need to have live music continue.”

Patrons were able to sign up for a performance on the Symphony’s website. The desire for live music was so overwhelming within the Grand Rapids community that the Symphony was fully booked. Doty said that over the course of the nine days the “Sidewalk Serenades” took place, residents had requested over 60 performances.

Symphony members were able to perform in a manner that complied with mandated social restriction guidelines. Limiting the number of audience members was another key factor in keeping both of the concert series safe. Lausman said organizers didn’t advertise any outdoor performances to keep

CONCERTS: The Grand Rapids community had classical music brought to their front yard. Members of the Grand Rapids Symphony travel to local audience’s neighborhoods to perform. COURTESY | MLIVE

audiences small.

“Even though the pandemic has brought all sorts of challenges, playing these small concerts on porches and in driveways and parks has been an amazing experience,” said Lausman.

“We are bringing the music to the people and they’re thrilled,” she continued. “I have had so many people come up to me after a performance to thank me and let me know

how our music fed their souls. People are so hungry for live music. Music is very important in all of our lives even though a lot of people don’t realize it. This might be one of the few positives to come out of this very challenging time.”

Doty said that the Symphony is looking forward to their fall season where they will continue bringing music to the community with their Pathwaves series.

PERFORMANCE

Live music resurrected at The Deck’s Beach Masquerade

BY MARY RACETTE ARTS@LANTHORN.COM

BEACH JAM: Music fans enjoyed a concert on the beach from Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers. COURTESY | KATIE LASKOWSKA

It is unclear how long musicians and audiences will have to wait before concerts are able to go back to normal. Until then, artists are finding ways to provide a live music experience for fans, even if it means things will be a little different. Michigan-based band Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers emerged from their three-month hiatus off of live shows to perform on the beach for a socially distanced concert at The Deck in Muskegon.

The lake breeze and sandy surroundings were the cherry on top of the perfect venue for a socially distanced event. The Deck is located on Lake Michigan’s beach in Muskegon. In addition to the table service restaurant, The Deck has a bar and snack bar to fill up the venue’s audience with a wide range of drinks, entrees and appetizers.

While the performers maintained the same energy as they would any show, this concert was a little different than most shows prior to COVID-19. It was a seated concert and audience members were re-

quired to wear a mask anytime they were not in their purchased seat. Tickets were sold by the table, each seating up to six people. The first show was Wednesday, Aug. 26 and the remaining three shows in this Beach Masquerade series will take place Sept. 11, 12 and 13.

Band frontman Joe Hertler said he takes the pandemic very seriously, and he trusted The Deck’s proposed plan to uphold a safe environment for fans to enjoy the show.

“Things are ultimately out of our control, but what we can control in this situation is trying to be safe with it and taking every possible precaution as we can to make sure that it works out alright and no one gets sick,” Hertler said.

Attending live shows plays a role in one’s connection to their community, making it important for venues and artists to work together on planning safe shows.

“Those who can connect with music ultimately can connect with each other at a higher level,” Hertler said.

Not only is a concert a fun night out with friends, but it provides a community with a valuable shared experience that can bring

people together.

“Live performance is innate to human nature,” Hertler said, referring back to anthropologic traditions.

While it seems as if some key parts of being a musician have been temporarily taken away, Hertler has managed to find some silver linings. After many long years of touring, Hertler said he embraced the quarantine as a nice break to stay home and focus on his music.

He said he hopes that people begin to understand how fragile life is and learn to adapt to the unexpected events and obstacles that are presented.

Hertler’s idea of life’s fragility and the false sense of security displayed throughout American society is included in Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers’ latest album, “Paper Castle.” Along with songs from previous albums, the band played multiple songs from “Paper Castle,” including the encore song, “Death Don’t Worry About Me.” LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A5 | OPINION

GVL EDITORIAL CARTOON

By Lauryn Syrba

8/31/20

editorial@lanthorn.com

GVL OPINION POLICY The goal of the Grand Valley Lanthorn’s opinion page is to act as a forum for public discussion, comment and criticism in the Grand Valley State University community.

Student and columnist opinions published here do not necessarily reflect those of the paper as an entity.

The Lanthorn strives to be a safe vehicle for community discussion. With this in mind, the Lanthorn will not publish or entertain any forms of hate speech, but neither will it discriminate against any other views, opinions or beliefs. The content, information and views expressed are not approved by—nor do they necessarily represent those of—the university or its Board of Trustees, officers, faculty or staff.

Letters to the editor should include the author’s full name, relevant title and a headshot, along with a valid email address and phone number for confirming the identity of the author. Letters should be approximately 500650 words in length, and they are not edited by the Lanthorn staff except to fix technical errors or to clarify.

Reader submissions on the opinion page appear as space permits.

To make a submission, email editorial@lanthorn. com or drop your submission off in person at:

0051 KIRKHOF CENTER GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY ALLENDALE, MI 49401 616-826-8276

Detroit Lions’ practice boycott kicks off historic week in sports

BY ZACK GOODROW & KELLEN VOSS EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

This past week in sports will be read about by our kids in textbooks, with the whole professional sports world temporarily going on pause to protest the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

The NBA, WNBA, NHL and MLB all had teams vote to boycott games, using their larger-than-life platforms to spread a message against police brutality towards young black people all over this country.

George Floyd, Breanna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery are just a few young black Americans who died wrongful deaths in 2020.

The videos and stories keep replaying in many young Americans’ heads. George

Floyd’s neck underneath the knee of Derek Chauvin. Breonna Taylor trying to get some sleep and never waking up. Ahmaud Arbery running for his life.

One athlete who will be showing his support for the death of Arbery is Tracy Walker, a safety on the Detroit Lions and cousin of the late Georgia man.

“I’m definitely going to wear his name on the back of my helmet, for sure, with the whole social justice thing,” Walker said to Justin Rogers of the Detroit News. “I’m working on a few T-shirts that I’m getting with his picture on it.

I’m going to play with that on underneath my uniform. His name is going to be on my cleats, the whole nine.”

Walker was one of the many Detroit Lions to protest Blake’s shooting by canceling Tues-

day’s practice to let their voices be heard. Defensive end Trey Flowers was also adamant on the Lions players stance on making a change and not just playing football.

“We can’t be silent,” Flowers said to Michael Rothstein of ESPN. “We can’t say silent. We cannot be going on in the world with our regular day. So today, unified we stand here and we came up with these words, these slogans, and we spread the message, spread the word.”

Those words include “The World Can’t Go On” and “We Won’t Be Silent.” These statements were preached by the Lions’ locker room after hours of conversation by the team. Instead of practicing and preparing for their NFL season opener, they focused their time on something that actually matters to our country and the lives of

every individual that lives in the U.S. The impact of these conversations wasn’t just felt by African American players. Quarterback Matthew Stafford was a vocal leader in these discussions and so was head coach Matt Patricia. Another white player, tackle Taylor Decker, finally understood the struggles of African Americans after the Lions discussion.

“Just to hear the pain and fear from people that I care about, people that I love, are going through, I know it’s not my reality, but they shouldn’t have to go through that,” Taylor said to Rothstein. “They shouldn’t have to have that fear.”

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Open letter from Grand Valley State University employees to our students The following letter to the student body is cosigned by nearly 700 university employees. The full letter and a list of signatures can be found at lanthorn.com.

Dear Grand Valley Students, Welcome to the start of Fall 2020! Whether you are new or returning to our Grand Valley community, we are committed to supporting you every step of your journey.

No matter if you are living on or off campus, studying online or in person, we cannot wait to welcome you into our classrooms. Some of you may worry that you will be blamed if the university needs to close unexpectedly or move to entirely remote work as we did in Winter 2020. We as faculty and staff will not blame you. These are uncertain and complicated times. We hope that our institution will not experience the same types of outbreaks that are taking place at other Michigan

colleges, universities, and public schools. If we do, it will not be your fault. The COVID-19 virus is the problem, not students. We stand with you.

The last several months have changed us all.

Like you, we have experienced pains, griefs, losses, and disruptions. We have experienced rage over persistent inequities and wrongdoing along with uncertainties about what lies ahead. We also have seen tremendous acts of courage, kindness, and selflessness. These months have cemented our core values: a commitment to learning and teaching excellence, integrity, critical inquiry and lifelong learning, inclusiveness, community, sustainability, and innovation. They have also stiffened our resolve, bolstered our commitment to act, given us hope and new energy. We cannot wait to build forward with you.

Now more than ever, it is important for students, faculty, and staff to work together. Our Laker community will become what we make it. As faculty and staff, we have been working all summer long

to get everything ready to support your learning.

Grand Valley has long been known for its highly engaged approach to education and individual attention to students. This has not changed. We enjoy being face-to-face with you in our classrooms, laboratories, studio spaces, and libraries. For those of you who work full-time, cannot easily travel to campus, and/or are taking online classes, we are committed to ensuring your digital learning experience is as engaging, supportive, and welcoming as our face-to-face learning spaces.

All of you have made sacrifices to be here. We are not going to let you down. Even better, we are going to do really good work together in the year ahead.

Happy Fall 2020, Lakers!

Sincerely, Grand Valley State University Employees

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A6 | NEWS ACADEMICS

Summer classes exemplify what to expect fall semester

BY ADAM TROMBLEY NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

As summer break winds down and fall is here, Grand Valley State University is ready for students to return to campus for the start of classes Aug. 31. Like many schools across Michigan, GVSU was forced to hold many courses throughout both the second semester and the summer semester of 2020 virtually due to COVID-19 and GVSU may look to its virtual summer classes as a guide to what this semester may look like.

Summer classes this year were different from how they looked in years past and although the goal is to learn the material, holding them virtually allowed for both students and professors to learn many different things about online instruction.

Online classes are used to keep people safe and socially distanced but can produce challenges for some students, while others can excel under the virtual curriculum. Student Jacob DeWeerd enjoyed his summer class online because of the comradery he quickly established with his fellow classmates.

“We were able to respond to classmates in our group and classmates outside of our group and directly to our professor as well, so it was a pretty close-knit group for a bunch of online classmates,” DeWeerd said. “I thought it was great.”

Within a week of spring break ending,

students and professors were forced to take classes through the university in a virtual capacity. While some students did not mind the online classes throughout the summer, some had trouble adapting to the new virtual landscape.

“One of my favorite parts about my major and my minor is that it’s very people-oriented, and the class discussion that gets prompted in my classes when we’re talking about specific issues, you almost completely lose that with an online class,” said student Lauren Moine. “I was a little disconnected because I knew I was going to sit there and listen to my professor and then I was going to do my homework and that was it.”

Professors had also been expected to quickly transition online following the COVID-19 outbreak and many were forced to hold summer classes online for the first time. Although students may have had a hard time adjusting to no face-to-face interactions, the same can be true for professors.

One of the biggest things missing for these professors is the ability to fully interact with one another and to keep their students and themselves motivated.

“You do have to keep people engaged and to be honest, I had to keep myself engaged,” said Communications and Radio professor Len O’Kelly. “A lot of the process of going to class for me is the physical going to class and I have to remind myself that I have got to work

EDUCATION: All of GVSU’s summer classes were held online last semester, and many students found that being away from campus while taking classes was a difficult challenge. GVL | SHEILA BABBITT

on this class with these students today. It is important for a professor in an online setting to reach out and see how everybody is doing.”

While some professors were already acclimated to teaching online courses, some had to learn along the way. For Area and Global Studies professor Vandana Pednekar-Magal, she missed the face-to-face interaction with students but having this online summer se-

mester helped her find an interest in what technology can advance her online teaching.

“It was kind of fun and interesting because I haven’t really looked into those,” Pednekar-Magal said. “It was kind of fun to adapt different types of technology into my teaching. After 20 years of teaching to just learn something new and teach it, it was initially overwhelming, but I think it went quite well.”

AWARD

GV voted “best-in-state” for LGBTQ+ students

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

LAKER PRIDE: GVSU was praised for its commitment to supporting its LGBTQ+ community on and off of campus. GVL | SHEILA BABBITT

At Grand Valley State University, providing the most inclusive and welcoming campus and educational experience for students has always been a top priority.

Thanks to the efforts of staff and the work of the Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center on campus, GVSU was named the best university for LGBTQ+ students by Campus Pride and BestColleges.

The ranking system used in determining the top spots utilized eight LGBTQ+ inclusivity factors: policy inclusion, support and institutional commitment, academic life, housing and residence life, campus safety, counseling and health, recruitment and retention.

BestColleges helps students make educational decisions and find schools that best fit their needs through proprietary research, user-friendly guides and unique college rankings. Campus Pride is a non-

profit educational organization for LGBTQ and ally college students, as well as campus groups helping to build future leaders and more inclusive colleges and universities.

Marla Wick, Associate Director of the LGBT Resource Center on campus, said that the university getting the number one slot was a great example of why the work they do is so important for students.

“We were delighted to see GVSU receive this recognition from a trusted organization like Campus Pride,” Wick said, “The staff in the LGBT Resource Center work very hard alongside our many campus partners to make GVSU welcoming and inclusive, but we also recognize that there is always room to improve.”

The Center normally puts on a number of events throughout the year like Bi Visibility Day, Queer the Air open mic night, and Queer & Trans 101 discussions. They also have a number of groups like the firstyear queer alliance and the colors of pride group for LGBTQ+ students of color. This

year, due to COVID-19 canceling many events and gatherings with larger groups of people, some of the Center’s events will be moved online to a virtual setting.

Marla Wick says that the Center is working towards new ways that they can make a difference for students, and their main goal is to keep GVSU as safe campus as possible for every person who walks on to it “We are always looking for ways to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ and allied students can make connections and find belonging, and we are grateful to be on a campus with many dedicated and affirming partners,” Wick said. “That flexibility and desire to try new things is definitely one of our strengths, and we have a broad array of programs that we hope will give people an opportunity to build community, engage in shared learning, and have fun.”

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AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A7 | NEWS

INTERNATIONAL

Students face being virtually abroad, physically home

BY MACKENZIE KELLER NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

Many students were devastated to discover that their study abroad programs had been canceled when COVID-19 struck. Plans for the spring/summer semester and this upcoming fall semester have been canceled. But applications for winter 2021 and beyond have been opened in hopes that travel abroad will become possible soon.

Hopes for studying abroad returning remains high as Grand Valley State University plans its biannual Study Abroad Fair. This year, however, it will be held virtually for students to attend.

The event will go from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, and students are able to register to attend on the event page. Attendees will hear from partner universities, faculty directors and former student participants.

While some programs will be offered virtually, most participants will have to wait until travel bans are lifted to attend their programs.

GVSU’s first virtual study abroad program was Cultural Geographies and Sustainable Landscape Planning in the Netherlands. It

launched June 22 and went through Aug. 4.

Through a combination of video material and lectures, students were provided with a unique opportunity to study abroad without leaving their homes.

The Netherlands program wasn’t the only one to go completely virtual. The Institute for American Universities (IAU) also switched to virtual learning opportunities for the summer semester. Students were able to take advantage of professionals in France, Spain, Morocco and a variety of others in this virtual environment.

On Thursday, Sept. 17, the Padnos International Center will be hosting a virtual Story Slam. From 5-6:30 p.m., students and faculty who have attended these programs will share their experiences with anyone who wishes to attend.

On the GVSU events page, students can sign up for both attending and speaking spots for the Story Slam. This event is to get students excited about studying abroad and to share real-life experiences.

Though applications are open for the winter 2021 semester and onward, students should be prepared for those to be canceled as well. Parallel planning is encouraged for

SLUGGER: Xxxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxx xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx. GVL | XXX XXXX

those students who get accepted into study abroad programs.

Virtual advising is being offered by the Padnos International Center along with vir-

tual Q&A sessions every Wednesday at 3 p.m. Both can be signed up for in advance on the Study Abroad website.

FINANCE

GV parking permit prices increase for 2020-21 academic year

BY JACOB DEWEERD NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

PAY TO PARK: Parking on campus will be more expensive this year as permit prices increased for the school year. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

Grand Valley State University students have seen attendance costs rise in a few areas this year, one of which is on-campus parking. Students can purchase parking permits that allow access to select parking lots on campus without fear of receiving a parking ticket. This year, despite many classes moving to online-only instruction, every parking permit has seen a price increase.

Manager of Facilities Services Chris Swank said the increases in permits are based on additional cost increases. Swank also said COVID-19 did not affect the pricing strategy for parking permits.

“Parking permit prices are based on the debt service and increasing maintenance costs to maintain the parking infrastructure,” Swank said, “To provide an alternative to purchasing a semester pass, we have expanded our pay-to-park options on the Allendale and Pew campuses.”

Pay-to-park lots cost $2.50 per hour with a maximum stay of two hours and day passes are available for some lots at a

cost of $10 per day.

With more and more classes moving online, GVSU students are not thrilled with the parking permit price increases.

“I wish they were less expensive because we’re basically all online with no reason to park beside a few in-person classes a week,” said one 3rd-year student, who asked to remain anonymous.

Another 3rd-year student found it hard to swallow the cost of a parking permit if it will not be used for the whole semester.

“Nobody knows if in-person classes will even be a thing a week after school starts, so I’m finding it hard to justify buying one if I would never use it,” they said.

A 4th-year student who works on campus was frustrated with GVSU raising prices and not adding any new parking spaces.

“I find it disappointing that the school is raising prices knowing that people already struggled to pay in years past, especially because parking spots at the already-high price have been hard to find for years,” they said. “As an on-campus employee that does not live near a bus

stop, I am basically forced to buy a parking permit.”

There have not been any upgrades or additions to parking spaces on any of GVSU’s campuses this year, but the University is debuting new Laker Line buses. According to GVSU’s Transportation Services website, the Laker Line connects Grand Valley State University’s main campus in Allendale with its downtown campuses on Fulton (Robert C. Pew Campus) and the Health Campus on the Medical Mile.

GVSU also plans to add 600 more parking spaces at 335 Michigan Ave in May 2021, which will help students parking near the Health Campus downtown.

Parking permits can be purchased in-person at the Service Building on the Allendale Campus or at the Eberhard Center on the Pew Campus, as well as online through the Citizen Connect Portal. Student Commuter permits are $240, and Lot J Remote Commuter and Seward Ramp Remote permits are $105. Allendale, Calder, and Pew Resident passes are all $210. All prices are for one semester.

A8&9 | NEWS

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME: Despite the strange year, campus once again experienced the bustle of move-in, with emotional family members and excited, but nervous students filing into campus. COURTESY | GVSU

Returning Lakers weigh in on changes in campus housing community

BY AUDREY WHITAKER AWHITAKER@LANTHORN.COM

In the midst of a global pandemic, there are few things on campus that will remain “normal” as the fall 2020 semester begins. GVSU students returning to on-campus housing realized just how different life in residence halls will be during move-in week, which happened Aug. 23-27 this year.

Lindsey Schmidt moved into Niemeyer Living Center Aug. 23. Schmidt said that while she appreciates every effort to keep residents like her safe, her experience has been different from previous years in many ways.

“It’s weird to not be able to do any sort of in-person stuff like the floor meetings that we used to have in-person that we can’t have now,” Schmidt said. “It makes it seem a little bit more impersonal I guess. I don’t know the people on my floor this year like I did last year.”

Devin Walker is returning to campus for the second time as a resident assistant (RA)

in Robinson living center. Walker said that although transitions, floor meetings and events will be different this year, his goals remain the same.

“A lot of what we do depends on interaction with our residents to build a community, and we just can’t do that like we used to,” Walker said. “Floor meetings and events are going online this year which is obviously going to impact us. With that being, said we’re still doing our best to build the community in our dorms.”

Walker said all students and their supporters were required to wear masks, maintain social distancing indoors, and complete a COVID-19 screening when they arrived on their scheduled move-in date and time.

“Move-in this year was pretty different than years past,” Walker said. “All the students and anyone helping them move in had to pass a self-assessment where you had to report any symptoms you’ve had in the past day or two.

Once you showed you passed, you gave a staff member some form of ID and they gave you your room key in an envelope, along with some

additional instructions. Then there wasn’t anyone helping to move in like usual, families had to take stuff up to their rooms themselves.”

Katie Petersen said that while moving into her North Campus apartment Aug. 26, the check-in process was efficient, but students and their supporters did become frustrated with their masks as the day went on.

“I moved in this past Wednesday at two and right off the bat it was really hot and really hard to work with masks,” Petersen said. “I noticed that a lot of people were getting kind of frustrated.”

Petersen said that she feels safe in her residence hall, and feels that following the university’s COVID-19 guidelines is an important way to keep the entire community safe.

“I know that I’m helping my neighbors because even though I don’t know them, someone can be immuno-compromised,” Petersen said. “I’ve seen cleaning happening like 24/7 out in the halls, and it just really puts a smile on my face because I know that I’m living in a safe environment and a safe community.”

Schmidt said that information regarding move-in dates and policies from the university was forthcoming leading up to and on her move-in date.

“The information I got basically told me how housing was going to work, how many visitors you can have, the visiting hours and stuff like that,” Schmidt said. “It’s been pretty accurate to my experience so far, I’d say they did a pretty good job of communicating.”

Walker said that despite the uncertainty that COVID-19 brings, he, his fellow RAs and his residents have felt listened to by their living center directors and housing staff.

“This is new for all of us, so nothing’s gonna be perfect right off the bat,” Walker said. “Especially with our training there were a lot of unknowns going into it and they did as much as they could to listen to us and fix the issues we had. In terms of like problems that we have now that training is done, they’re doing the same thing. They’re listening to us and taking what we say into account, and not only like from us (RAs) but from the residents too.”

A WARM, LAKER WELCOME: GVSU President Philomena Mantella walks around North Campus to greet students, families and supporters as new Lakers move into their dorms for the semester. This year’s move-in was unlike any other, with changes made to both the process and guidelines for on-campus living. Students were excited to move onto campus despite the circumstances. COURTESY | GVSU

ELBOW BUMP: President Mantella greets a student in a health-friendly way. COURTESY | GVSU

WELCOME HOME: Masked students moved their belongings into dorms over five days. COURTESY | GVSU

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A10 | NEWS FUNDRAISER

GV faculty, staff raise over $800,000 through Challenge Grant program BYKELLEN VOSS ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM

Through the Challenge Grant program, 1,231 members of Grand Valley State University faculty banded together to raise $806,404 for the 2019-2020 academic year as part of the Faculty/Staff fundraising campaign.

With more than 30 campus departments having more than 75% participation, Heather Rowan, manager of campus philanthropy, said how proud she was of faculty and staff in the campaign.

“It really shows the commitment to students is the mission of the university” Rowan said. “Working at GVSU is more than just a job – faculty and staff want to do what they can to help students succeed, including giving time and money.”

For the first time as part of the fundraiser, a program allowed faculty and staff to achieve extra impact for an area on campus, as the Faculty Staff Campaign Advisory Cabinet created three $280 Challenge Gifts.

“The three recipients could direct the grant money to any fund of their choice at the university,” Rowan said. “The money will go to wherever the donor designated. This could be to a

FUNDRAISING FIGUREHEADS: Three faculty and staff members won $280 challenge gifts that they donated back into the university. COURTESY | GVSU

scholarship, or to a club sport, or to a specific department – there are many available funds to choose that support areas across campus.”

The Challenge Grant winners include administrative assistant Patti Eisen, economics professor Daniel Giedeman and assistant professor of occupational science and therapy Kelly Machnik.

Eisen and Giedeman put their winnings into the Professional Support Staff Endowed Scholarship and the Economics Department Faculty Scholarship, respectively, while Machnik chose to put the money directly into the

school’s Occupational Therapy Fund.

While faculty and staff members have always given to GVSU, the campaign officially began in 1983 when the late GVSU staff member Mary Seeger initiated the first formal employee annual giving campaign.

She served in a campaign leadership role and, in her retirement, Seeger continued her dedication to faculty, staff and retiree giving as an integral member of the Advisory Cabinet for the Faculty and Staff Annual Giving Campaign.

Even though this is not the most money GVSU has raised as part of the campaign, Row-

an is happy to see more staff members participate in an effort to give students more scholarship opportunities.

“It’s extremely gratifying and shows the commitment of faculty and staff to student success,” Rowan said. “The amount of money varies from year to year, but we focus on the participation level which is one of the highest in our history.”

To find out more about the campaign and learn how to apply to the new scholarships, visit the Faculty & Staff Giving page on GVSU’s website here.

POLICY

On-campus dining, housing guidelines during COVID-19

BY KYLIE ELWELL NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

For the majority of the summer, upcoming freshmen and other on-campus students have been wondering what on campus life will look like for their upcoming semester. On-campus housing and dining will appear much dif-

ferent than it has in years prior, due to COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines. GVSU housing and food service staff want to keep students as safe as possible this school year.

“Residents in housing will be asked to social distance in all common areas such as lounges and community bathrooms,” said Adam Tate, Facilities Manager for

CHANGES: Students will see changes to dining and housing on campus this year. Many of the spaces on campus have been altered to accommodate social distancing guidelines. COURTESY | MLIVE

Housing. “Some furniture has been removed, spaced according to 6 foot distance guidelines, and stickers (have been) added to the carpet to indicate where chairs should be positioned. In community bathrooms, some sinks will be offline to create more spacing as well.”

Campus Dining will be closing Fresh Food Company on the upper level in Commons, Engrained inside the Blue Connection, the Faculty Dining Room on the lower level Kirkhof, and Corner Store inside AuSable Hall. Many dining areas will be open earlier and later than usual to accommodate for other places closing. All Campus Dining locations, besides the Lobby Shop in Kirkhof, will be cashless to reduce the spread of germs on surfaces (Meal Plans, Campus Dining gift cards, personal debit or credit cards and Apple Pay will be accepted).

The majority of dining locations will reduce seating and have all tables spaced 6 feet apart based on social distancing guidelines. All locations will also have a takeout option for meals if students would prefer to do that instead of dining in.

“Occupancy limits will also be added to common area social/study spaces as a way to indicate when social distancing may become difficult,” Tate said.

On-campus dorms and apartments will have quite a different set of guidelines compared to previous years. The only guests permitted into living centers and apartments will be other GVSU housing residents, with the exception of move-in and move-out where parents and supporters are welcome.

Overnight guests are not allowed at this time and no guests will be allowed during quiet hours, which are 10 p.m. to 10 a.m.

Sunday through Thursday and 12 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Visiting hours allow for students on campus to still see their friends, as well as work on assignments with friends and classmates.

This year on campus will look much different than before. On campus housing and dining faculty and staff are working to make it as great of an experience as possible for students on campus, while still making sure everyone is as safe as possible while being there.

A11 | ARTS

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS

ARTS AT A GLANCE GLASS EXHIBIT EXTENDED AT THE GRAM

Following the reopening of the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the “A New State of Matter: Contemporary Glass” exhibit has been extended through Oct. 4. Prior to the museum’s temporary closure due to COVID-19, the exhibit was scheduled to close April 26.

The exhibit features glass in a variety of forms, including blowing, kiln-forming, casting and flame-working. The array of work comments on the flexibility of the medium which has been given the nickname “chameleon matter.” In addition to a range of artistic processes involved with the work, the art also connects to a variety of cultural, political and spiritual themes.

Nineteen artists are featured in “A New State of Matter: Contemporary Glass.”

Included in this the exhibition is the work of local Grand Rapids artist Norwood Viviano. His work connects art with data, touching on the subjects of economics, social sciences and geography.

MURALS AUCTIONED OFF AT DOWNTOWN EVENT

The city kicked off Bridge Grand Rapids with Open Windows, an event in Rosa Parks Circle which commemorated the murals painted to cover the shattered windows of businesses following the May 30 riot. WindowsGR is the initiative which started the creation of these murals. The plywood murals have been taken down and have been auctioned off throughout the week. Messages on the board spread awareness and activism for the Black Lives Matter movement.

In addition to the auction that happened throughout the week, Open Windows was a live art event. Seven artists were chosen to paint on glass services, each on behalf of a local cause which 7% of the auction proceeds were donated to.

MUSIC

Four Steps Apart: Capturing the passion of the Laker Marching Band

BY CHAVALA YMKER ARTS@LANTHORN.COM

The Laker Marching Band (LMB) spreads across their practice field, always four steps apart, or about seven and a half feet.

Each wind and brass instruments’ bell is covered in a piece of Grand Valley State University branded felt to limit the spread of aerosols that might carry dangerous viruses.

“Alright, let’s take a five-minute break,” said John Martin, director of the Laker Marching Band. “Face coverings up as we leave the field.”

They take these breaks every 30 minutes, and every 20 when it’s hot, in order to let the aerosols disperse.

After a summer of online auditions, the LMB staff held three virtual town hall meetings, not only to provide a sense of purpose for the students, but also to determine how many wanted to participate in person. In the end, 180 chose to attend band camp in person, 16 decided to engage online, and six or seven are waiting for next year. Martin said he was “taken aback by how many wanted to be in person,” and felt that it showed the students “really want to be a part of something and to regain a sense of normalcy.”

Since March, the LMB team has been collecting information from the updated guidelines created by the College Band Directors National Association and the National Federation of State Highschool Associations, along

BACK IN ACTION: The Laker Marching Band has adjusted to COVID-19 as it prepares for a small selection of shows this year. GVL | ARCHIVES

together as a band. Servis explained that instead of supporting the football team, this year the band’s focus is on encouraging the entire university.

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DEDICATION

Historic local women celebrated through alley activation in Downtown Grand Rapids

BY MARY RACETTE ARTS@LANTHORN.COM

THE PILLOWCASE PROJECT MAKES ITS DEBUT

Dégagé Ministries asked the public to donate pillow cases to contribute to their art piece that will be featured in partnership with Bridge Grand Rapids. Until Sept. 2, Dégagé Ministries is accepting donations with a goal of collecting 4,700 pillowcases. The 4,700 pillowcases are meant to represent the amount of women who have been served by the Dégagé Ministries Open Door Women’s Center, raising awareness to homeless women.

The pillowcases are intended to feature pictures and messages of hope for these women. Some of the new pillowcases were sent to the women in the Center to decorate. The piece will be featured in Ah-Nab-Awen Park in Grand Rapids from Sept. 10 to Oct. 1. Following the display of the pillowcases, they will be donated to the Center for the women to use.

with the wind aerosol studies begun by several universities. These guidelines and research informed every decision made for the LMB. A GVSU mask and a refillable bottle of hand sanitizer are provided to every musician. If it’s raining on a practice night, band is canceled. At the end of the night, each instrument is disinfected in preparation for the next day. There are no exceptions.

“It’s a rigid mentality,” Martin said.

The LMB faced many challenges, such as rewriting the pregame show to allow for social distancing. Every limitation is addressed with positivity. Ryan Servis, a drum major and third-year member, praised the way the LMB leadership team has kept up morale. First-year clarinetist, Nick Sparks, also does his part by encouraging his fellow musicians and always being available to help.

Servis said, “The members as a whole have been receptive to our positivity.”

Those band members engaging online will still be required to memorize the pre-game music, and every week or two, the students will focus on different topics ranging from how to build a show setlist to diversity, equity and inclusion. Martin plans to bring in guest speakers, including alumni who are eager to give back to the community. If LMB has to move completely online, this same model will be used for the entire band.

Four shows are still planned for the fall semester, and even without an audience, the musicians are eager to perform

PAINTING PRAISE: A new public space activation project celebrates women leaders in downtown Grand Rapids. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) has announced a new public space activation project created to bring new life to downtown alleyways through a celebration of historic women leaders in Grand Rapids.

The Women’s Way Initiative was organized by DGRI through collaboration with the City of Grand Rapids, the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council (GGRWHC), Lions and Rabbits art gallery and numerous others.

The initiative is centered around five alleyways throughout Downtown Grand Rapids where local artists are painting murals of historic women leaders who made a significant contribution to their community.

In addition to the murals being painted, the alleyways will be officially named after the women and marked with commemorative street signs.

On the mural itself will be a biographi-

cal plaque about the woman and in the surrounding alleyway will be planters, lighting and movable furniture for seating. It is the hope of DGRI that soon they will be able to host pop-up programs in the alleyways and draw more people to the space.

The idea for this initiative came about in March of 2019 during DGRI’s public art project inspired by the book “Rad American Women A-Z” written by Kate Schatz. Through working with Schatz throughout the duration of this project, DGRI Director of Public Space Management Kimberly Van Driel was moved to create an entirely new initiative.

“Last year when we did the Rad American Women project Schatz mentioned to me that she has traveled all over the world and nothing is named after women,” Van Driel said. “That really resonated with me which, in turn, led me to wonder what we could do to change that.”

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A13 | LAKER LIFE

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLLAKERLIFE

A LOOK AT LIFESTYLE GV LAUNCHES MYBLUELAKER APP

Grand Valley has experiment with virtual assistants for a while, but this August their condensed efforts were released as “myBlueLaker,” an app available on web browsers as well as for download on the Apple Store and Google Play. The app allows for more convenient access to information typically retrieved through the Banner system (such as academic standing, registration status and class class schedules), as well as the answers to frequently asked questions on subjects like building hours, campus dining, or student housing.

Most relevantly for students new to Grand Valley is the campus navigation feature — myBlueLaker can use your location to provide direction to different buildings and destinations on both the Pew and Allendale campuses. The app improves with user interaction and feedback, so if you think its features might be useful, give it a try at myBlueLaker.gvsu.edu.

FINANCE

Living on a closed campus: student housing during COVID-19

SELF-ASSESS FOR COVID SYMPTOMS

As a part of pandemic health precautions for the Fall 2020 semester, Grand Valley is asking students, faculty and staff to complete a daily self-assessment of their COVID-19 testing status and potential symptoms of the virus. The form itself, sign-up for daily email reminders, and a tool to create an assessment shortcut for your phone are all available at gvsu.edu/lakerstogether/self-assessment-23.htm.

Those interested in the latest data from these self-assessments, as well as from the random testing being administrated by Grand Valley’s Virus Action Team, can check the GVSU COVID-19 Data Dashboard at gvsu. edu/lakerstogether/data-dashboard-37.htm.

CAMPUS LIFE NIGHT GOES VIRTUAL WITH LAKER INVOLVEMENT FAIRS The need for social distancing created by the pandemic makes events like Grand Valley’s longstanding Campus Life Night difficult to organize. The Office of Student Life has come up with a solution — scheduling virtual fairs where students can discover options for campus engagement and interact with representatives from student organizations and campus departments.

There are four fairs scheduled in the near future. Academic and Professional Fraternities & Honors Societies will be held on Sept. 10; Interfaith, Cultural, Advocacy and Student Government on Sept. 11; Media, Performing Arts, Special Interests and Greek Life on Sept. 12; and the RECFest for Club Sports and the Office of Recreation and Wellness on Sept. 13. To RSVP and find lists of all the organizations involved, visit gvsu.edu/ studentlife. minority and LGBT communities. The exhibit features photos of beach-goers throughout history and will remain in the exhibition space until Thursday, March 14.

A QUIET CAMPUS: For students left on campus followng the cancellation of classes, life was different as they waited to move out. COURTESY | GVSU

BY YSABELA GOLDEN LAKERLIFE@LANTHORN.COM

Last March, Grand Valley State University’s winter 2020 semester was interrupted abruptly by the spike of Michigan COVID-19 cases. Alongside the official suspension of in-person classes and transition to remote learning on March 12, students living in campus housing were asked to depart from their residences no later than March 15.

Student key card access to residence halls was shut off two days later, and stayed that way until scheduled move-outs began May 1 — delayed after several executive orders restricting travel from Michigan Governor Whitmer — allowing students to finally return for the belongings they’d left behind in the rush to get off campus.

But while the majority of residents returned to campus to move out fully in May, other students were leaving for the first time. Back in March, Housing and Residence Life created a Departure Exception Request Form for students who were unable to depart campus due to extenuating circumstances. Cautious of too many students

remaining on campus and spreading the virus, approvals for exemption were limited to specific circumstances and made on a caseby-case basis.

One such approved case was that of Breann Barge, a writing major who lived in Calder Residence on the Allendale campus when classes were cancelled last March.

Barge’s asthma makes her particularly at risk from COVID-19, and in addition to the practical difficulties of moving into new housing with such little notice, she needed to stay in her one-bedroom apartment in order to remain quarantined.

“During the initial shut down, there was definitely a sobering feeling that was heavy in the atmosphere,” Barge said. “There was a bittersweet feeling seeing adult Allendale residents take advantage of the emptying campus as students were going home for quarantine.

Using the parking lots, walking around with dogs and babies.”

Fortunately for Barge, her job as a student employee at the writing center transitioned online with her classes. As an Allendale resident without a car, however, the closing of campus dining and convenience stores meant that she could have a serious problem if the

virus affected the availability of the buses she relied on to get groceries from the Standale Meijer. Thankfully, Grand Rapids’ Interurban Transit Partnership had an effective COVID-19 plan for The Rapid bus services.

“Only fifteen people are allowed at a time,” Barge explained. “Over the summer, the 50 took over some of the route for what’s normally bus number 12. Even being open to the public, it’s rarely been filled to capacity, and it still ran at its normal weekend time of once an hour — so thankfully, it was no different getting around for me.”

Barge moved out of Calder in April, but remained in Allendale, subleasing an apartment near campus. Now that the fall semester is starting, Barge is back in Calder.

“Housing’s usual effectiveness is still holding up, but it feels a little slower for the welcoming of students back to campus this fall,” Barge said. “But I think they could just be figuring everything out.”

When asked if she had any advice for the many Grand Valley students returning to Allendale after a spring and summer spent away, Barge had only one thing to say: “Wear your mask, wash your hands and good luck.”

A14 | SPORTS QUICK HITS RECFEST 2020 TO HAPPEN VIRTUALLY

Grand Valley State University’s Recreation and Wellness center will soon be hosting RecFest again. On Sept. 13, from 4-7 p.m., students will be able to attend virtually.

Students can RSVP for the event on Laker Link. Students can learn about special events, clubs, programs, and employment opportunities. Other topics covered during this online event will be fitness services, student wellness, outdoor activities and intramural sports.

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

BASKETBALL

GV Basketball’s Christian Negron talks BLM, NBA activism and the fight for police reform

FORMER GVSU TE NICK KEIZER LIKELY TO MAKE NFL ROSTER

Tight end Nick Keizer graduated from GVSU in 2017. He played for the Lakers football team for three seasons, catching 45 passses for 734 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was an excellent pass-catcher and blocker with the Lakers during his time at GVSU, but he went undrafted in 2018. He was on the Baltimore Ravens practice squad until he was cut and eventually picked up by the Kansa City Chiefs in 2019.

Keizer was a member of the practice squad for the Chiefs all of last year. This training camp, however, he’s been given a big opportunity to make the team.

Keizer has been playing with the first team and gaining praise all around the roster. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, head coach Andy Reid, and fellow tight end Travis Kelce have all commented on his blocking ability and the energy Keizer brings to the field.

Keizer has a good chance to make the Chiefs roster and to be their number two tight end behind Kelce. If he does make the roster, Keizer will join linebacker Matthew Judon and cornerback Brandon Carr as the only former GVSU players active in the NFL.

ALEX THOLE COMMITS TO GVSU

Schoolcraft Eagles quarterback/cornerback Alex Thole has committed to GVSU. The 2021 graduate will play football with the Lakers next year. Last year, Thole was a First Team All-State passer in high school.

He threw for 2,999 yards with 38 touchdowns and only three interceptions.

Thole’s father, Joe, played defensive back for the Lakers for four years in the late 1980s. With no high school football this year, Thole will have to continue his training on his own to be prepared for the Lakers in 2021.

NFL NEWS AND FANTASY DRAFTS

NFL fans or fantasy football players: don’t fret. The Lanthorn has you covered with any offseason information. On the Lanthorn website, articles have been posted all summer over each NFL division and what players were added to teams.

This week, the NFC West will round out the coverage.

Visit lanthorn.com for the full story.

FOCUS FOR THE FREE THROW: GVSU’s Christian Negron gathers himself and looks toward the basket at the free-throw line at GVSU Fieldhouse Arena.

This summer, Negron has participated in numerous Black Lives Matter protests and has been outspoken on police brutality. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

BY KELLEN VOSS ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM

When a video of Wisconsin man Jacob Blake being shot in the back seven times by police rekindled national protests, Grand Valley State basketball player Christian Negron was appalled, but not shocked, by the way police officers treated the man trying to de-escalate a fight.

This has been a tough summer for Negron, a Black athlete, not just because he hasn’t had access to a gym or didn’t see his teammates in person for almost five full months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Blake is not the only black person to suffer from police brutality this summer, as a video of George Floyd being killed underneath the knee of Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin sparked Black Lives Matter protests all over the country a few months back.

Negron, who participated in a few protests just outside of his hometown of Elgin, Illinois, was happy to be able to further the conversation with GVSU teammates following the death of Floyd.

“When the George Floyd situation first happened, we all had a Zoom meeting with a few GVSU officials,” Negron said. “Obviously, we have a lot of white kids and we have some black kids on our team, and we just wanted to talk it out and see if we can just further the conversation of what’s going on.”

You could hear the pain in Negron’s

voice as he explained how important it is to have these difficult conversations with teammates and coaches alike.

“People like myself and (senior teammate Steven Lloyd) thought it was important to try and elaborate on what’s been going on,” Negron said. “I’m glad that the conversations are being had but I just haven’t seen much reform yet. And that’s the most frustrating part.”

Negron continued to stress that some real change needs to happen in the country when it comes to both how police officers have trained and holding officers accountable.

“I don’t know if people are waiting to hear something that’s gonna change their opinion when it’s pretty much been the same conversation for 400 years,” Negron said. “It’s blatantly obvious that Black people are oppressed in this country, and I do think the conversations need to continue to be had. It’s always important to continue to educate people on these issues, but I’m confused as to why not enough real legislation has been changed already.”

The senior center has hated to see that the death of innocent Black men has somewhat become a political issue in this country, and has gained some solace in talking about that hate with members of GVSU Basketball’s coaching staff.

“I’m not overly political myself, but I do have really strong opinions about social justice, human rights and things of that nature,” Negron said. “It’s almost like the way it works today, if you pick a side

you have to be the extreme of that side too. I’ve actually talked to Coach Wesley about this, and oftentimes I feel like the extremes are often the loud minority of the argument. It’s unfortunate, and stuff like that shouldn’t be politicized, but I guess that’s just our country.”

Negron is proud of the activism he has seen in the NBA, from players like Chris Paul dedicating his whole post-game interview to Jacob Blake to the Milwaukee Bucks boycotting Game Five of their Eastern Conference quarterfinals match-up to protest police brutality, with the rest of the league following suit shortly after.

“I’ve always been a fan of people who have a message like that and stick to it, especially when they have a platform like that,” Negron said. “They’ve made their message really strong. The NBA obviously has a huge platform, and they understand that, and they use it for good. I’m really supportive of it.”

Negron hopes that there are changes made in the legislation. But he also hopes that people don’t view these incidents as an anomaly in the system, and continue to fight for change for Black people all over this country.

“A lot of times, things like this happen, and then some people think it’s a trend,” Negron said. “Black Lives Matter is not a trend, it’s a continuous movement. This has been, and will be, a constant moving thing until change happens.”

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A15 | SPORTS

FALL SPORTS

GLIAC suspends fall sports

BY ZACK GOODROW SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

The fate of Grand Valley State University’s fall sports has been decided. An unanimous vote by the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Council of Presidents and Chancellors has suspended all sports until Jan. 1, 2021.

Since spring sports were put on hiatus in March 2020, the GLIAC Council of Presidents and Chancellors have been focused on finding a logistical way to bring back competition during the fall. With fall sports now suspended, the council will shift focus on bringing them back during the spring.

The decision to suspend fall sports seemed likely after the Power Five Conferences and the Mid-Atlantic Conference cancelled their football seasons. For players, coaches, and fans in the GLIAC conference, this decision is obviously disappointing. While not being able to compete is heartbreaking, this will give athletes and staff a better opportunity to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the very least teams will still be able to practice and continue training, as long as GVSU complies with the NCAA and state guidelines for social distancing.

“The decision to suspend all sports competition this fall was extremely difficult,” GLIAC Commissioner Kris Dunbar said. “After thoroughly reviewing federal, state, and NCAA SSI (Sport Science Institute) and Board of Governor’s guidelines, it

became apparent that conducting contests and championships this fall was insurmountable. My frustration and sadness for the coaches, student-athletes, families and fans is unmitigated. The league will continue to work on protocols for a safe return for our athletic programs, with the health and safety of our student-athletes and staff taking the highest priority.”

GVSU football head coach Matt Mitchell said the cancellation didn’t come as a surprise, with early warning signs visible through last month.

“I saw it coming,” Mitchell said. “Early in July, there were some recommendations from the NCAA regarding testing that I knew was going to make it very difficult for institutions that are our size and our level to pull off part of competition. Then last week when they took those recommendations to mandates and then also cancelled fall championships, I knew that the shoe was going to drop and that we would not be playing any competition.”

Mitchell noted that despite the high probability the season would be cancelled, he heard concerns from his players. For seniors, some were afraid their entire college career could be delayed. Others had fears over isolation and quarantine procedures.

Many just wanted to play, but were unsure of how to play football during a pandemic.

“What was the season going to look like?”

Mitchell said. “Was this going to be a fun season to play if you can only have ‘x’ number of

kids in the locker room, no fans at games and things like that. I think more of their concerns were about what was their experience going to be like, not so much about the virus.”

Those complexities left Mitchell feeling conflicted for several weeks before the decision was made today. With the team priming up for even a chance to play in-conference prior to the call, the decision still hurt.

“I feel great about the changes we made within our offensive coaching staff, the student athletes we had coming back, and I badly wanted an opportunity to prepare and play a season,” Mitchell said. “At the same time, I was conflicted because I don’t know the longterm effects of the COVID-19 virus and what it will have on our student athletes. I was also worried too about if somehow through a team operation a student-athlete was to contract the virus and bring it home to a more atrisk population. I’d have a hard time dealing with that as a head football coach.”

With some Division I conferences still upholding semblances of seasons, Mitchell made it clear that the decision to pull the plug on the season would mean more care would have to be given to student-athletes, especially without constant contact and the reminder that illness could impact their chance to play.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

SNAP SHOT: The GLIAC has cancelled all fall 2020 sports, including football. GVL | ARCHIVE

FOOTBALL

Coach Matt Mitchell reacts to fall 2020 football season cancellation

BY ZACK GOODROW SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

SIDELINE COACH: Mitchell and his players have to “shift the gears to next year.” GVL | ARCHIVE

Aug. 12, 2020 marked the end of the Grand Valley State Lakers football season before it even started. Challenges of competing during the COVID-19 pandemic determined the Lakers fate. Financial resources, travel logistics and the safety of players and staff was on the forefront of the minds of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Council.

The decision was obviously disheartening for coaches, fans and players.

“The players were disappointed,” said head coach Matt Mitchell. “They put a lot of time, effort and energy into preparing for the season. They had developed relationships with coaches and they were disappointed to not play a sport they love.”

While it will be an adjustment for every student at GVSU during this hectic fall semester with the shift to hybrid and online classes, there will be a different challenge for student athletes.

For coach Mitchell’s players, they will spend

this semester improving as people and students instead of being on the field.

“They have now shifted gears to next year,” Mitchell said. “They’re excited to spend time improving as a student, in their strength and conditioning, and relationships. For us as a staff, we’re really going to figure out who truly loves football going into next season.”

Before the decision to cancel the season, the NCAA made sure to implement two key choices players could make for the 2020 season. These include player opt-outs for safety concerts and establishing a system to renew player eligibility for cancelled seasons. In terms of opting-out, many players across the NCAA and even the NFL have decided to sit out 2020. For the Lakers, however, the entire team was on board.

“I think we did a great job in the months leading into August, in terms of keeping the players up to date on safety practices and protocols when playing football,” Mitchell said.

“I think they knew there were risks when it came to playing football, but the majority of

them thought they were acceptable risks. No one during that time period expressed opting-out. We gave them plenty of opportunities and different alternities when the NCAA was still making their decision.”

Renewing eligibility will be another obstacle for senior players on the team. Some of these Lakers seniors include starting quarterback Cole Kotopka, receiver Brandon Wadley and linebacker Tyler Bradfield. There are many challenges that come with this new eligibility extension.

“The majority of my seniors want to finish their career at GVSU,” Mitchell said.

“They are trying to figure out a way to navigate their education. Here’s the deal for every player in my program: their educational timeline and eligibility timeline no longer match. A lot of seniors are scheduled to graduate at the end of the fall semester 2020.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

AUGUST 31, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A16 | NEWS CLUB SPORTS

Club sports react to fall season suspension

BY JOSHUA CARLSON SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

ith the announcement of Grand Valley State University club sports being suspended through Jan. 10, 2021, athletes and members of club sports staff are still reacting to the news. They will continue work and try to figure out how this fall is going to play out for GVSU club sports.

Due to COVID-19, club sports will only be able to conduct competitions if they can be held virtually, along with certain clubs only being allowed two face-to-face training sessions per week. Otherwise, the sessions will be held in a virtual format. The GVSU club sports FAQ states that clubs can still hold tryouts within their weekly training session parameters. If there is a previously off-campus club that needs to reserve facilities, they can contact Assistant Director Mitch Eastlick.

The decision to cancel fall sports and club sports for this semester was difficult. Mike Pryzdial, the Associate Director of Sports Programs for GVSU, understands how athletes and coaches have felt about this decision.

“I understand there are frustrations and rightfully so,” Pryzdial said. “We’re doing our best to work diligently and closely with our student leaders and our coaches to ensure that they’re going to be able to participate safely within the parameters that we’ve set for this fall.

We know that our club sports are here to compete and represent the university, so there is a lot of disappointment.”

Deciding to suspend all club sports ultimately leaves a lot to determine for the department and how it will affect the athletes who participate. With no knowledge of the future, it is still

up in the air on if fall sports will be pushed to the winter semester.

“All in all, I’m extremely proud of our staff, our student leaders and our coaches,” Pryzdial said. “Everyone has really stepped up and has really embraced what has been set forth for the fall. We’re looking to find ways they can stay sharp with their skills, keep their community going, and work towards when they can have the ability to go out and compete again.”

Pryzdial guaranteed that when making the decision, his team looked at the situation in various ways, taking all the information they could before making it final. The safest option for coaches and athletes, however, ultimately came to not conducting club sports this fall.

Kayla Daniels, president of the Cross Country and Track & Field Club at GVSU, is thankful that although there will be no club competition, she and her team can still conduct training sessions to stay active as a club sport.

“I was pretty prepared to have no club sports,” Daniels said. “So, to get two days a week, I was thrilled. At the beginning of the pandemic back in March, all campus activity was closed. To come back and be able to get two days a week was exciting. For a while there I had convinced myself that this semester was going to be like last March.”

Unlike other club sports, cross country and track are self-coached, which puts it all on Daniels as the president to continue to help other members of the club with their motivation to train and stay ready. Posting updates on their Facebook page, scheduling track times and trying to find ways to give athletes competition are all things Daniels continues to do to make sure her club gets the most out of this unique year.

For what the future holds with next springs

NO CLUB SPORTS: Many GVSU students will miss out on club sports this season, but Associate Director Mike Pryzidal hopes they can return at some point in 2021. GVL | KATHERINE VASILE

club track and field season, the only thing Daniels can be is hopeful for her team.

“I think right now we can be optimistic, train and believe that there’s a chance for the spring,” Daniels said. “The chances feel low, but we’ll find other ways. If we still get to practice next semester, hopefully, it will be enough for our athletes and encouragement for them to still come out for the club.”

With what was decided, all that anyone who is a part of a sports club at GVSU can do is have optimism and do the best they can with the options that have been given.

Pryzdial has a message for the community who works hard to make sure that club sports are being represented.

“We are very grateful for their understanding and we are here to support them,” Pryzdial said. “I understand this is going to be a difficult transition, it’s going to be very challenging. We are really relying on our students to step up and buy into the concept of what we are trying to do so we can execute this plan together. We can continue to phase in different aspects of our program and ultimately get back to the competitive piece of club sports.”

Pryzdial encourages club sports members to hang in there and reminded them that the staff is there to support athletes however they can. While it will be challenging and the future unknown, everyone hopes that club sports will be returning as fast as possible.

HOCKEY

Men’s club hockey transitions to DI for 2020-21 season HOLLY BIHLMAN SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

The Grand Valley Men’s Club Hockey team plans to dive straight into practice as soon as the rinks are open again, with hopeful hearts that the season will begin in full force January 2021.

With fall sports being canceled and club sports being postponed, the men’s hockey team has had some downtime to construct a gameplan for their upcoming season, including their con-

version to the American Colligate Hockey Association (ACHA) DI league. With many new recruits and three months of time to prepare for their first season as a DI team, head coach Carl Trosien is looking forward to the positives amidst the ongoing concerns about the health and safety of GV’s student-athletes.

Along with 70 other universities, the ACHA approved GVSU’s team for their Division I league. This now makes GVSU the second-largest school in the division. The

DI ATHLETES: Grand Valley State hockey coach Carl Trosien is excited to see his DII hockey team transition to DI and play against some stiffer competition in the upcoming season. GVL | ARCHIVE

team had a record of 15-17 last season and an overall record of 266-87-18 since 2008, a .716 winning percentage. The transition to DI will attract younger athletes looking for the top division in the ACHA. This year’s team will be a younger set of players with a strong will to not only improve but win. Going into his third year as head coach, Trosien is looking forward to building a team that will have more time to grow together and see where that will take them in the next four years.

“Doing this now 14 years, one of the things I’ve learned and seen more often than not is talent doesn’t always get you where you want to be,” Torsien said. “You need work ethic and guys that are hungry and understand what it takes. You need guys that have been there before. I can find a bunch of kids that want to play college hockey, but I can’t find a pretty good percentage of kids that want to win.”

Last season, the team had 22 freshmen, and with a strong core group heading into this next season along with the new recruits, this year’s team will have an even bigger advantage when

it comes to growth and improvement.

“We’re a first-year team,” Torsien said. “We get we’re transitioning, but why can’t we make some noise and how quickly can we get to the national championship?”

Another factor that impacts the transition to DI is new competition. Sophomore Zach Borchardt knows the team’s lack of experience at such a high level of play is a possible disadvantage. However, new competition brings an even deeper determination to win. The Adrian Bulldogs have been the top dog in Division I for the past few seasons, but the Lakers are more than ready to see what they can do now that they’re playing on the same ice.

“They’ve been the team to beat for a while at the DI level, so that would be a game that I’d be looking forward to, to see if we can do something that a lot of other teams can’t,” Borchardt said.

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