University Address: Mantella charts path for growth, innovation and impact

She also noted that enrollment for this academic year will likely meet projections, including achieving the goal of a 1% increase. The retention rate from first-year to sophomore year has increased 1.4%. Mantella said 288 new faculty and staff have been hired to support those learners.

Maintaining low tuition rates, providing high returns for GVSU graduates and meeting workforce demands remain important university values, Mantella said, adding that the campus community must continue to show innovation to remain competitive.

"Is higher education worth it? At GVSU, the answer is yes and we can prove it," she said. "Strong employment outcomes and Michigan retention, along with extended reach, allow us to live into our purpose, but we must continue to innovate."

Strategies like capitalizing on the power of the university's ecosystems and its power of place will help expand its reach, Mantella said. Blue Dot will catalyze local opportunity while anchoring digital fluency, innovation and partnerships. The Omni network of community colleges and organizations helps to bring a Grand Valley education to residents who "can't come to us," she said.