Wallace receives faculty recognition at GVSU

Dr. Adrienne Wallace

The annual Faculty Awards Convocation at Grand Valley State University ceremony held at noon on Tuesday, February 8, recognized faculty members for their outstanding contributions and years of service to Grand Valley.

University Awards for Excellence were presented, along with awards from the Pew Faculty Teaching and Learning Center, and Center for Scholarly and Creative Excellence. Milestone awards recognized faculty members with 25-45 years of service.

Among the University Awards for Excellence, the Outstanding Advising and Student Services Award was presented to Adrienne Wallace, associate professor of communications. Dr. Wallace is a graduate of Manchester High School Class of 1994, and the daughter of Patrick and Elizabeth Wallace of Manchester. In addition to the award, Wallace receives $500 to apply to research or attendance at an academic conference.

Dr. Wallace joined Grand Valley State University in 2009 and not only advises and mentors students one-on-one, but also coordinates internships, advises multiple student organization, participates as a student success network mentor, serves incoming students through first-year advising and registration, and incorporates advising and mentoring into her professional and scholarly publications and presentations. She started the tenure track in 2016 and received tenure status in July, 2021.

Wallace’s colleagues and students describe her as a “superstar” and “powerhouse advisor,” who offers authentic engagement, long-term support, and deep care for her students. Wallace is praised by colleagues and students for her availability, collegiality, support for student professional development, and willingness to support students through challenging circumstances academically and personally.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.