George Grant Jr. has been selected to serve as the fifth president of Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. When he takes office on December 1, Dr. Grant will be the first person of color to lead the university.
Saginaw Valley State University enrolls nearly 7,000 undergraduate students and more than 700 graduate students. according to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Education. African Americans make up 8 percent of the undergraduate student body.
“I know the history and tradition of SVSU. Its people have a passion for academic exploration and achievement, and it continues to ensure that the opportunities of higher education are attainable to assist students in meeting their full potential,” Dr. Grant said. “I was not looking for a new opportunity, but SVSU’s mission, strategic plan, and commitment to community engagement are in line with my personal values. SVSU is committed to educating the citizens of Michigan, while also providing the opportunity for a quality education to people across the country and around the world. I cannot wait to get started.”
Since January 2021, Dr. Grant has served as chancellor of Pennsylvania State University-Berks, a campus of more than 2,100 students. Prior to that, he spent 24 years at Grand Valley State University in Allendale Michigan, including 12 years as dean of the College of Community and Public Service.
Dr. Grant earned a bachelor’s degree in social work at Marygrove College in Detroit. He later completed a master’s degree in social work at Grand Valley State University and a Ph.D. in sociology at Western Michigan University.
How fitting for someone of Dr. Grant’s exemplary educational background to now lead an educational institution. Certainly wish him well in his new role as a college president. God is good.