GVSU community celebrates life of retired Facilities Planning leader

James Moyer, retired associate vice president for Facilities Planning, died Aug. 20 following a battle with cancer. He was 78.

Moyer worked with three university presidents to help plan and expand Grand Valley's footprint. Before retiring in 2018, Moyer managed the development of more than 4 million square feet of physical space. Major projects during that time included the DeVos Center, Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, Mary Idema Pew Library, Muskegon Innovation Hub and the Kelly Family Sports Center.

"James Moyer's legacy is woven into the very fabric of Grand Valley," said President Philomena V. Mantella. "His vision helped shape the places where generations of Lakers learn, discover and connect. We are deeply grateful for all he gave to our university and community."

Greg Sanial, vice president for Finance and Administration, said: "James Moyer's impact on Grand Valley is remarkable. The spaces he helped create continue to serve our students and communities every day, and his commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth set a standard that continues to guide our work."

Under Moyer's leadership, the university expanded its role as a leader in sustainability with 21 LEED-certified projects, including silver, gold and platinum. Because of that leadership, Moyer was inducted into the Sustainable Business Hall of Fame in 2020 by the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum.