Former Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell to Join GVSU’s Sustainability Team

This morning, Grand Valley State University announced that former Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell will join GVSU's sustainability team in February.

Heartwell will serve as community sustainability coordinator, a part-time position, for the Office of Sustainability Practices in the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies.

In his new role, Heartwell will further Grand Valley’s goals in the areas of sustainability and civic engagement, and serve as a resource for students. He will continue to chair the Grand Rapids Community Sustainability Partnership and Grand Rapids Regional Center of Expertise in Education for Sustainable Development.

“George's dedication to advancing the sustainability practices of Grand Rapids is unwavering and I look forward to him bringing the same energy to Grand Valley,” said Grand Valley President Thomas J. Haas.

Anne Hiskes, dean of Brooks College, said as soon as it was known that Heartwell's term would end, she contacted him to explore opportunities to bring his expertise to Grand Valley. “I cannot think of an individual with a richer experience in sustainability, social innovation and community engagement,” said Hiskes.

Heartwell said he is honored to be asked to join Grand Valley.

"I look forward to bringing to Grand Valley my passion for sustainability, the broad network of relationships I cultivated during my time in public office, and my love of West Michigan," Heartwell said.

Heartwell’s 12-year tenure as mayor ended December 31, 2015.