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Shandra Martinez

Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles

Greater Ottawa County United Way President Patrick Moran presents County Administrator Al Vanderberg and County Commission Chair Roger Bergman with the the G.W. Haworth Strength of the Community Award.
Ottawa County receives United Way’s top honor for pandemic response

The Greater Ottawa County United Way presented its biggest honor — the G.W. Haworth Strength of the Community Award — to Ottawa County and its staff for going above and beyond in keeping residents safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

GRCC President Bill Pink
Education secretary salutes GRCC for outreach, student support during pandemic

Secretary Miguel Cardona invited Grand Rapids Community College President Bill Pink to join a recent call with national media. During the call, to discuss $36 billion in emergency U.S. Department of Education grants, Cardona highlighted GRCC’s outreach to and support for students impacted by the pandemic.  

Grand Rapids Community College is offering two sessions of Bridges to College — Raider Ready this summer to help graduating high school seniors get ready for college.
GRCC offers free summer program to prepare high school graduates for college

Grand Rapids Community College is offering two sessions of Bridges to College — Raider Ready this summer to help graduating high school seniors get ready for college. The free program is open to 2020 high school graduates or 2021 graduating seniors who plan to attend college in the fall. 

The late sport journalist Sekou Smith was honored as GRCC’s Distinguished Alumnus for this year.
GRCC honors late sports journalist as Distinguished Alumnus

Grand Rapids Community College’s recent commencement ceremonies included a tribute to Sekou Smith, a sports journalist and community leader who died in January of COVID-19. The speaker, mentor, and friend to NBA stars was honored as GRCC’s Distinguished Alumnus for this year.

The nearly $10 million donation to GRCC will be used to support student resources and modernize buildings.
GRCC Foundation receives $10 million gift, largest in college’s history

The nearly $10 million donation to GRCC from the late Robert Richmond, a West Michigan developer, will be used to support student resources and modernize buildings. GRCC Foundation leaders say the gift will “keep higher education within reach.”

Stacey Workman is a financial adviser.
5 ways to feel inspired during Financial Literacy Month

Statistics show that most people are concerned about money — with regard to either the present, the future, or both. As April is Financial Literacy Month, The Lakeshore asked financial adviser Stacey Workman for tips that could help people achieve their short- and long-term monetary goals.

A new agreement will give GRCC students a seamless transfer to a Ferris State bachelor’s degree in music and entertainment business.
New music business program lets GRCC students enter Ferris as seniors to complete BA

Under the agreement, students could earn an associate degree in pre-music and entertainment in three years at Grand Rapids Community College, then transfer to Ferris State University for one year to complete a bachelor’s degree in music and entertainment business.

Rapper Rakim will discuss his book as part of GRCC's Diversity Lecture Series.
Hip-hop legend to discuss his life, craft at diversity lecture series

Rakim is set to take the virtual stage for the April 6 installment of the GRCC Diversity Lecture Series. The celebrated hip-hop MC will discuss his life, work, and book, which offers his insights on writing and rhyming, as well as a glimpse into his private life.

GRCC's Phyllis Fratzke Early Childhood Learning Laboratory is recognized as one of the top programs in the nation.
GRCC early childhood center among top programs in nation

The Phyllis Fratzke Early Childhood Learning Laboratory allows future teachers to interact with highly qualified mentors while observing and participating in the delivery of effective curriculum for young children.

This year, GRCC is planning four in-person commencements over two days.
GRCC brings back traditional in-person graduation ceremonies

Grand Rapids Community College graduation last year was a virtual celebration due to the pandemic. This year, GRCC is planning four in-person commencements over two days, limiting guests to ensure the safety of graduates and their families.

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