Residential Services Guide - Grand Valley State University

Mission, Vision and Values 

Mission 

Collaborating to provide opportunities for student learning and success through inclusive residential 

communities and experiences. 

Vision 

Model and provide a safe and inclusive learning environment, challenging students through opportunities for 

engagement and development. 

Values 

The Office of Housing and Residence Life values the education and success of students and staff, through the 

following: 

Liberal Education- liberal education through student development in critical thinking, self-awareness 

and active citizenship 

Intercultural Competency- intercultural competency by providing inclusive and supportive 

environments where diverse voices and experiences are celebrated and personal growth is 

encouraged 

Sustainability- triple bottom line sustainability, including 1. Economic (fiscal responsibility) 2. 

Environmental (physical surroundings) and 3. Social equity (employee hiring and development)

Community in the Residence Halls 

Continue the Laker Tradition 

The Residence Life program at Grand Valley State University provides students with an opportunity to live 

independently in a supportive environment. The design of our residential communities are intentional, 

promoting community, campus involvement and contributing to friendships that will last a lifetime. Our staff 

focuses on the development of our residents, helping them to become contributing members of a global society. 

Benefits of Living On-Campus 

Safety. All residential areas have an assigned Community Policing Officer responsible for educating 

students on how to stay safe on-campus. 

One Payment. Living off-campus results in a lot of bills that on-campus students don’t have, as their 

services are all wrapped up in one payment. 

Convenience. Feel like getting up 15 minutes before your class? No problem if you live on-campus, 

plus you avoid the hassle of commuting. 

Dining. Eat great food at just about any time of day at multiple dining locations. You are never more 

than a 5-minute walk from your next meal. 

Campus Involvement. Build leadership skills by participating in activities and organizations on-campus 

and within your housing community. 

Academic Success. Living on-campus provides increased access to academic support resources, as well 

as a supportive learning environment. 

Support. Every hall has staff trained to help students succeed in and out of class, in both their personal 

professional lives. 

Companionship. When you live on-campus there is always an opportunity to meet new people making 

the transition from home much easier. 

Tradition. Memories made with fellow Lakers while living on-campus will be retold for years to come 

and the bonds will last forever.

Educational Programming/Learning Objectives 

Educational Programming 

GVSU Housing and Residence Life provides residents with numerous opportunities to attend programs that 

offer out-of-classroom learning and a chance to meet other students. Presented by students and staff, these 

programs help prepare students for their college experiences. 

Learning Objectives 

Connected Learning: Providing out of class experiences that support, complement, and enhance the in 

class learning that happens. A student will engage in meaningful and connected out of class learning 

experiences. 

Diversity: A student will engage with a community of learners with diverse backgrounds and 

interests of others who are different from them. 

Critical Thinking: A student will apply their knowledge to a variety of situations within 

their living-learning environment. 

Self-Awareness: Awareness of self as well as the need for interdependent community and the impact of 

personal behavior on community. A student will develop an awareness of self as well as awareness of self 

within the interconnected communities that they are a part of. 

Communication: A student will engage in effective verbal and written communication. 

Relationships: A student will develop a relationship with the people in the community that 

they are a part of. Through their participation in the community they will develop a better 

understanding of themselves. 

Citizenship: Providing opportunities that encourage students to engage in what it means to be a citizen in a 

democracy. The students will acknowledge the importance of caring for the community around them. A 

student will understand how individual actions impact community life and growth. 

Membership: A student will examine their participation and goals related to personal and 

community life. 

Leadership: A student will consider the different aspects of leadership and their own role 

within the larger community. 

Sustainability: A student will identify and participate in sustainable practices such as 

energy/water consumption, recycling, and resource use.

Work Opportunities 

Grand Valley State University has a history of excellence, providing a solid foundation for a student’s academic 

and professional career. The department of Housing and Residence Life at GVSU plays a vital role in this 

journey. Our primary responsibility is to give current generations of Lakers a sense of community helping them 

to become contributing citizens of a global village. 

Our Staff Members Strive for Excellence in the Following Areas 

Liberal education, our staff is dedicated to providing activities that complement classroom experiences 

Citizenship, presenting opportunities for students to adopt sustainable practices in their daily activities 

Intercultural competency and the ability to work successfully within and across various cultures 

Providing safe, affordable, engaging, and innovative student-centered living and learning communities 

Offering quality services that support dynamic and diverse learning environments 

Supporting the academic mission of GVSU by fostering communities that recognize the world’s diversity 

Undergraduate Student Employment 

Working for Housing and Residence Life provides the conveniences of living close to work and a flexible work 

schedule arranged around your classes. You can make new friends and have a source of income by working as a 

Resident Assistant (RA), Office Assistant, Desk Assistant, Mail Room Assistant, or Conference Assistant. 

Student workers comprise a large percentage of the Housing and Residence Life Staff. To apply for 

employment visit our main office at 103 Student Services on the Allendale Campus for an application. 

Graduate Assistant 

Graduate Assistants are in a part-time position, responsible for sharing and/or providing the administrative 

leadership of a residential area housing 200-900 students. We are seeking individuals who demonstrate critical 

thinking skills, and the ability to balance their personal, academic, and professional lives. 

Requirements: BA/BS required admission to the GVSU M.Ed. program with an emphasis in College Student 

Affairs Leadership. 

Compensation: Competitive monetary stipend, tuition waiver of up to 24 credits per year, housing, and meal 

plan. 

Living Center Director 

Living Center Directors are in a full-time position, responsible for the supervision and management of 

residential areas that house 200-900 students with multiple Resident Assistants and Graduate Assistants as 

live-on staff. 

Responsibilities: Advising, academic support, budgeting, counseling, discipline, administrative duties, facilities 

management, on-call responsibilities, as well as participation in departmental committees. 

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred; minimum one year experience working 

in a university residential setting or in student affairs. 

Salary: 12 month/competitive salary, furnished apartment, meal plan, and full university benefits 

GVSU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

IMPORTANT CAMPUS NUMBERS 

Department Phone 

�umber 

Website Email 

Advising Resource 

Center 

616-331-3588 www.gvsu.edu/arsp askowl@gvsu.edu 

ARC Tutoring Center 616-331-3451 www.gvsu.edu/tc 

Bookstore 616-331-2450 www.ubs.gvsu.edu ubs@gvsu.edu 

Bus Information 616-456-7514 www.gvsu.edu/bus info@ridetherapid.org 

Career Services 616-331-3311 www.gvsu.edu/careerresources coffeyc@gvsu.edu 

Cashier 616-331-3327 www.gvsu.edu/registrar regdept@gvsu.edu 

Campus Dining 616-331-3399 www.gvsu.edu/campusdine diningc@gvsu.edu 

Campus Ministry 616-331-3251 www.gvsu.edu/campusministry ministry@gvsu.edu 

Campus Police 616-331-3255 www.gvsu.edu/publicsafety 

Campus Recreation 616-331-3659 www.gvsu.edu/rec rec@gvsu.edu 

Campus Recreation- 

Intramurals 

616-331-3218 www.gvsu.edu/rec rec@gvsu.edu 

Campus Recreation- 

Fitness/Wellness 

Center 

616-331-3659 www.gvsu.edu/rec rec@gvsu.edu 

Children's Enrichment 

Center 

616-331-5437 www.gvsu.edu/child arnoldsh@gvsu.edu 

Community Service 

Learning Center 

616-331-2468 www.gvsu.edu/service service@gvsu.edu 

Computer Lab- Help 

Desk 

616-331-2101 www.gvsu.edu/it helpdesk@gvsu.edu 

Computer Lab- DeVos 

(Pew Campus) 


Computer Lab - Henry 

Hall 


Computer Lab - 

Manitou 


Counseling and Career 

Development Center 

616-331-3266 www.gvsu.edu/counsel 

Facilities Services 616-331-3000 www.gvsu.edu/facilitiesservices thimmest@gvsu.edu 

Fieldhouse 616-331-3313 www.gvsu.edu/fieldhouse rec@gvsu.edu 

Financial Aid 616-331-3234 www.gvsu.edu/financialaid findaid@gvsu.edu 

Housing and Residence 

Life 

616-331-2120 www.gvsu.edu/housing housing@gvsu.edu 

Information Hotline 616-331-2020 www.gvsu.edu/2020 infodesk@gvsu.edu 

LGBT Resource 

Center 

616-331-2530 www.gvsu.edu/lgbtrc lgbt@gvsu.edu 

Library- Circulation 

Department 

616-331-3500 www.gvsu.edu/library library@gvsu.edu 

Multicultural Affairs 616-331-2177 www.gvsu.edu/oma oma@gvsu.edu 

Pew Campus Security 616-331-6677 www.gvsu.edu/pewsecurity security@gvsu.edu 

Registrar's Office 616-331-3327 www.gvsu.edu/registrar regdept@gvsu.edu 

Student Employment 616-331-3238 www.gvsu.edu/studentjobs student@gvsu.edu 

Student Life 616-331-2345 www.gvsu.edu/studentlife slosm@gvsu.edu 

Women's Center 616-331-2748 www.gvsu.edu/women-cen womenctr@gvsu.edu

COMMUNITY DESKS 

Each residential community has access to a reception desk and office where staff members provide information 

and several services to residence hall students. Services may include lockout/key/access card needs, general 

information, maintenance requests, and package pick-up. 

Community Front Desk 

Location/Phone 

�umber 

Living Center Director 

Office Location/Phone 

�umber 

*RA Duty Phone 

�umber 

CHECK BACK AFTER MOVE-I� WEEK FOR THIS I�FORMATIO�

Housing Postal Mail Addresses 

Community Mailing Address City, State, Zip 

Calder 10650 South Campus Dr. Apt# Allendale, MI 49401 

Copeland 10940 Residence Dr. Apt # Allendale, MI 49401 

DeVos 11040 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Frey 11020 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Benzie 10316 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Keewenaw 10320 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Mackinac 10314 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Oakland 10328 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Tuscola 10326 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Grand Valley Apartments- Wexford 10332 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Hills 10996 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Hoobler 10880 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Johnson 10850 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Kirkpatrick 3927 Residence Ct. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Kistler 10980 Residence Dr. Apt # Allendale, MI 49401 

Koeze-Weed 10820 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Laker Village �orth 

Apartments 2A-17F 

10515 Laker Village Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Laker Village South 

Apartments 18A-30M 

10440 Laker Village Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Murray 10498 South Campus Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

�iemeyer East 4046 Calder Dr. Apt. # East Allendale, MI 49401 

�iemeyer West 4046 Calder Dr. Apt. # West Allendale, MI 49401 

�orth A 11086 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

�orth B 11090 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

�orth C 11080 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Ott 10830 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Pew 11010 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Pickard 10970 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Ravine Apartments #1-99 4310 Ravine Center Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Robinson 10910 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Secchia 32 Winter Ave. SW Apt. # Grand Rapids, MI 49504 

Seidman 3930 Residence Ct. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

South C 10370 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

South D 10280 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

South E 10294 42 nd Ave. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Stafford 3891 Residence Ct. Apt # Allendale, MI 49401 

Swanson 3894 Residence Ct. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

VanSteeland 10438 South Campus Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

West A 11012 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

West B 11018 Residence Dr. Apt. # Allendale, MI 49401 

Winter 32 Winter Ave. SW Apt. # Grand Rapids, MI 49504

STAFF DIRECTORY 

Office of Housing and Residence Life 

Location: 103 Student Services Building 

Phone: 616-331-2120 

Fax: 616-331-3790 

E-mail: housing@gvsu.edu 

Web site: www.gvsu.edu/housing 

Director of Housing, Residence Life and Health Services 

Andy Beachnau, Ph.D. beachnaa@gvsu.edu 

Associate Director of Housing and Residence Life- Business Affairs 

Abigail Forbes forbesa@gvsu.edu 

Associate Director of Housing and Residence Life- Operations 

Brenda Mitchner mitchneb@gvsu.edu 

Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life 

Takeelia Garrett-Lynn garrettt@gvsu.edu 

Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life- Facilities and Camps and Conferences 

MarcQus Wright wrighmar@gvsu.edu 

Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life- Residence Education 

Colleen Lindsay-Bailey lindsayc@gvsu.edu 

Interim Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life 

Brandie Tenney tenneyb@gvsu.edu 

Marketing Coordinator 

Heather Coar coarhe@gvsu.edu 

Assignment Coordinators 

Denise Davis davisd@gvsu.edu 

Shawn Roth roths@gvsu.edu 

Amanda Brower broweran@gvsu.edu 

Housing Assistant 

Melanie Grover groverm@gvsu.edu 

Residence Life Assistant 

Susan Brunell brunells@gvsu.edu 

Housing and Residence Life Clerk 

Judy Budnick budnicju@gvsu.edu

Resident Assistants 

At GVSU Resident Assistants (RAs) are chosen on the basis of their experience, insight and ability to work 

with a variety of personalities in a range of circumstances. RAs live in each residential building. Their training 

allows them to effectively handle situations as they arise. In addition to being your friend, they share advising 

and educational responsibilities creating programs and events in a supportive environment. The resources they 

provide are important and connect you in a way that allows you to be academically and socially successful. 

If you are unsure of who your RA is, look for posting in your building, ask your front desk or e-mail your living 

center director.

Safety and Security 

Medical Emergencies 

1. Call the staff member on duty or front desk to assess the situation. If it is appropriate, call 911, notify the 

dispatcher of your exact location, and follow instructions. 

2. DO NOT HANG UP UNTIL THEY DO. 

3. After the emergency unit has been dispatched, do not leave the injured person unattended. 

4. Calm the injured person. 

Campus Police Services 

Place Hours Phone �umber Address 

24 Hour Dispatch (616) 331-3255 Allendale 

Ambulance/Fire/E- 

Unit 

911 

Pew Campus 

(616) 331-6677 Grand Rapids 

Security 

Silent Observer (800) 825-0221 

Community Health and Urgent Care Centers 


Campus Health M-F 9a-4:30p 10383 42 

Center 

nd Ave (Water Tower Place) 

Allendale, MI 49401 

Campustowne 

(616) 895-6700 4868 Lake Michigan Drive 

Family Practice 


Metro Health M 8a-6p, T-F 8a-5p (616) 252-3900 11160 W.J. Presley Parkway Suite 100 

Allendale 


Spectrum Health 7 days a week (616) 391-6220 2332 Alpine Ave NW 

Alpine 

Spectrum Health 

West Pavilion 

Hospital Emergency 

8a-10p 

7 days a week 

8a-10p 

Grand Rapids, MI 49544 

(616) 486-5000 6105 Wilson Ave SW 

Wyoming, MI 49418 


Cornerstone Team 

Line 

(616) 336-2450 

Grand Rapids 24 hours a day, 7 days (800) 222-1222 100 Michigan St NE 

Poison Center a week 


Holland Hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days (616) 392-5142 602 Michigan Ave 

a week 

Holland, MI 49423 

Spectrum Health 24 hours a day, 7 days (616) 774-7740 1840 Wealthy St SE 

Blodgett ER a week 


Spectrum Health 24 hours a day, 7 days (616) 391-1680 100 Michigan St NE 

Butterworth ER a week 


Spectrum Health 7 days a week, 8a-10p (616) 486-5100 6015 Wilson Ave SW 

West Pavilion 

Wyoming, MI 49418 

St. Mary’s Hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days (616) 685-5000 200 Jefferson St SE 

ER 

a week 


Zeeland Community 24 hours a day, 7 days (616) 772-4644 8333 Felch Street 

Hospital 

a week 

Zeeland, MI 49464

FIRE PROCEDURES 

1. Fire alarm sounds within your building. Exit the building if you are able. 

2. Dial 911 and follow instructions. 

3. Close your window-open drapes or blinds. 

4. Before leaving the room, feel the room door. If it is HOT, DO NOT OPEN. Open the window and signal 

for help. If the door is cool, leave the building by the closest exit. 

5. Once outside, proceed to the designated assembly area (away from the building leaving room for 

emergency vehicles) and wait for further instructions. 

6. Students may not re-enter their building until notice is given from the Allendale Campus Police or Pew 

Campus Security. 

7. DESIG�ATED ASSEMBLY AREA LOCATIO�S 

Community Location Location is �ear 

Calder Lot M Lake Ontario Hall 

Copeland Lot D 

DeVos Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Frey Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Grand Valley GVA Community Center 

Apartments 

Hills Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Hoobler Robinson Field Sand Volleyball Courts 

Johnson Robinson Field Sand Volleyball Courts 

Kirkpatrick Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Kistler Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Koeze-Weed Robinson Field Sand Volleyball Court 

Laker Village Lot J 

Apartments 

Murray Lot P The Connection 

�iemeyer East/West Lot M Lake Ontario Hall 

�orth A Lot D 

�orth B Lot D 

�orth C Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Ott Robinson Field Sand Volleyball Court 

Pew Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Pickard Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

Ravine Apartments Lot B behind Ravine Center 

Robinson Robinson Field 

Secchia Mt. Vernon Lot 

Seidman Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner Commons 

South C 

South D 

South E 

Stafford Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner 

Swanson Lot D Basketball Court Kleiner 

VanSteeland Lot P The Connection 

West A Lot D 

West B Lot D 

Winter Mt. Vernon Lot 

RESIDE�TS ARE EXPECTED TO PARTICIPATE I� ALL FIRE DRILLS A�D ALARMS. FAILURE 

TO PARTICIPATE WILL RESULT I� DISCIPLI�ARY REFERRAL.

TORNADO WATCH 

This means that conditions are right for a tornado to form. Stay tuned to television and radio for 

weather updates. Your awareness should be heightened and you should be prepared to move to a 

shelter. 

TORNADO WARNING 

If you hear the tornado siren please move indoors, a tornado has been spotted in the area. 

Go to the safest location of the building IMMEDIATELY. 

Community Location 

Calder Main level hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Copeland First and second floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

DeVos First floor bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways, away from windows 

Frey First floor hallway away from windows 

Grand Valley Laundry rooms, lower level in hallways away from windows 

Apartments 

Hills First floor hallway away from windows 

Hoobler Downstairs in the hallways or restrooms 

Johnson Downstairs in the hallways or restrooms 

Kirkpatrick First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Kistler First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Koeze-Weed Downstairs in the hallways or restrooms 

Laker Village 

Apartments 

Main level storage room, located beneath the stairs 

Laker Village Main level hallways 

Efficiencies 

Murray First floor apartment restrooms 

�iemeyer East/West First floor apartment restrooms 

�orth A First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

�orth B First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

�orth C First floor hallways, away from windows 

Ott Downstairs in the hallways or restrooms 

Pew First floor restrooms, kitchens, and hallways, away from windows 

Pickard First floor restrooms, kitchens, and hallways, away from windows 

Ravine Apartments First floor restrooms or kitchens, away from windows 

Robinson First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Secchia First floor apartment restrooms 

Seidman First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

South C 

South D 

South E 

Stafford First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Swanson First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

VanSteeland First floor apartment restrooms 

West A First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

West B First floor hallways or restrooms, away from windows 

Winter First floor apartment restrooms 

DO�’T OPE� WI�DOWS, FOLLOW I�STRUCTIO�S OF CAMPUS POLICE A�D HOUSI�G A�D 

RESIDE�CE LIFE STAFF.

Student Sustainability Guide 

The Office of Housing and Residence Life is committed to being sustainable. LEED Certified Buildings, energy 

efficient appliances, campus recycling, residential energy savings competitions, community garden, and the 

campus connector transportation systems are all initiatives that are becoming a way of life in our on-campus 

residential areas as well as the campus community at large. To learn more about Grand Valley’s Sustainability 

Initiative and what you can do to help as a valuable member of the community please take the time to visit the 

following links: 

www.gvsu.edu/sustainability 

www.gvsu.edu/facilitiesservices 

www.gvsu.edu/housing 

Grand Valley State University is a place to learn, be healthy, become a better global citizen, and potentially 

change the world. 

What is sustainability? 

“Sustainability is meeting the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet 

their own needs.”- U.N. Brundtland Commission 1987 

There are three key factors of sustainability: 

1. The environmental impact of all human activity 

2. The enhancement of social systems 

3. The improvement of economic conditions 

What difference can I make? 

As a student at an institution where “shaping societies” is part of the mission, you can make as big of a 

difference as you choose to. Almost every area of student life at Grand Valley provides an opportunity to 

incorporate sustainability in the classroom, outside the classroom, and in a career. What you do at Grand Valley 

can make a lasting difference in your life as well as the lives of individuals in your local community and around 

the world. 

Am I sustainable? 

The average Grand Valley Student: 

Eats meat at least once or twice a week 

Eats food that is grown/produced more than 200 miles from their home about half the time 

Generates an average amount of trash 

Lives in a 500-1,000 sq. ft. dwelling 

Has electric utility service 

Travels 25-75 miles a week on public transportation 

Does not travel by motorbike regularly 

Drives or is a passenger in a car 10-100 miles a week 

Gets around by walking or by bicycle some of the time 

Spends 10 hours a year flying 

Gets between 15-25 miles per gallon in the car in which they drive/ride in 

Drives without a passenger about half the time

What is my ecological footprint? 

According to www.myfootprint.org, the average Grand Valley student has an ecological footprint of 12 acres, 

half that of the average United States citizen. What size is your ecological footprint? What can you do to change 

it? 

GVSU Recycles 

Recycling is simple at Grand Valley. Recycling bins are located throughout the housing units, classrooms, 

student centers, and office buildings. Multi-bin recycling units are also maintained at the apartment 

complexes as well as the Facilities Services building on the Allendale Campus. Please place only proper 

recyclable material in those containers. 

What can you recycle at Grand Valley? 

Paper- We can recycle any type of paper as thick as a manila folder or as thin as newsprint. We can also 

take magazines, paperback books, notebooks, and general office paper. Don’t include sticky labels and 

self-adhesive materials. 

Cardboard- Two types of cardboard, corrugated and non-corrugated can be recycled. Non-corrugated 

includes: cereal boxes, tissue boxes, etc. Both types can be recycled if they are clean of any food 

contamination. Please flatten and set beside the smaller recycling bins or in the large multi bins located 

in the parking lots by GVA, the Ravines, and Laker Village. 

Plastics- We can only recycle plastics that are marked with a #1 - #7. Refer to picture below. All other 

must be discarded as trash. 

o To determine the density, simply look on the bottom of the container for its number. #1 and #2 

plastics should be rinsed, caps removed, and placed in the recycling box labeled, PLASTICS 

AND CANS, or in the larger multi bins located in the parking lots by GVA, the Ravines, and 

Laker Village. 

Glass- Glass containers should be rinsed, caps removed, and placed in the recycling container labeled 

GLASS or in the large multi bins located in the parking lots by GVA, the Ravines, and Laker Village. 

We can accept clear, brown, and green glass but not window glass, fish bowls or any other kind of cups 

or food holders. 

Batteries- We accept all types of household batteries except car batteries. Place in box next to the 

recycling containers. 

Cans- We can recycle all types of metal. In the case of aluminum food cans, please rinse and flatten 

them if possible. 

Items that GVSU cannot accept or recycle 

o Car batteries 

o Styrofoam

o Packing peanuts 

o Aerosol cans 

o Window glass 

o Tissue paper or paper towels 

Get up-to-date information and statistics on recycling at: 

o http://www.gvsu.edu/facilitiesservices 

o http://www.recyclemania.org 

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Respond. 

Reducing waste is an important step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. 

Here are a few changes you can start making today: 

Use both sides of the paper when printing or copying 

Use IM, texting and e-mail instead of buying paper to write paper notes 

Buy in bulk within reason to avoid excess packaging, however don’t purchase more than you can use 

Consider the necessity of an item before buying it 

Safely discard hazardous chemicals or products such as paints, oil, cleaners, etc. 

Prepare or take only the amount of food that will be consumed 

Use products made from recycled materials 

Be a trend setter: 

Avoid paper products such as napkins, plates, and plastic silverware 

Use reusable mugs for coffee, tea, and drinks 

Give away used items instead of throwing them away 

Save and reuse grocery and shopping bags 

Reuse or recycle packaging material 

Fun Fact: 

If every Grand Valley student refilled a plastic water bottle instead of buying a new bottle just once, there 

would be 24,408 fewer plastic bottles to be recycled, or sitting in landfills. Imagine if you did it all year long! 

Eating Green, Buying Green. 

What we eat impacts our bodies as well as our environment. Many of the social and environmental problems 

we encounter in the world today are a result of what we purchase and consume. Eating green as well as 

buying green are ways to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. 

Ways to practice eating green: 

Eat lower on the food chain; eat more fruits and vegetables and less meat. Meat production requires 

more energy and resources to produce 

Buy foods that are locally grown, providing economic benefits to local growers and producers, thus 

reducing the fuel cost associated with the transportation of food 

Eat certified organic foods that are produced in a more natural way and are more nutritious 

Buy fair-trade coffee, chocolate, tea, and gifts 

Avoid dioxins (dioxins are highly toxic chemicals and are the by-products of incineration or chlorine 

bleaching) by using unbleached coffee filters

Ways to practice buying green: 

Buy items that can be re-used rather than thrown away 

Buy recycled materials or products 

Purchase “green label” items or those that are friendlier to the environment 

Use non-toxic, biodegradable household cleaners 

Buy appliances that have the Energy Star ® Label 

Purchase fair trade items that establish a value and credibility for third world producers 

Campus Dining and Sustainability: 

Campus Dining at Grand Valley has started purchasing food items from local suppliers. While it is not 

feasible to use local vendors exclusively, using these vendors for specific items represents an opportunity to 

help support the local economy. 

University Water Conservation 

The supply of fresh water is not unlimited. In the United States each person uses about 600 liters of water per 

day as compared to someone in Africa who averages about 50 liters of water per day. We are very fortunate 

to have abundant fresh water resources, but we must learn to conserve what we have. Grand Valley has 

taken proactive steps to reduce water consumption dramatically during the past few years. 

Ships Ahoy! 

The Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI) in Muskegon celebrated its 20 th anniversary in 2007. In addition 

to research and its commitment to water quality in the Great Lakes region, the AWRI has an education and 

outreach program that has served more than 1,000,000 passengers aboard its two biodiesel-fueled research 

vessels. 

Simple ways you can conserve water: 

Take shorter showers 

Don’t let the water run while brushing teeth, washing up, shaving, etc. 

Use dishwashers and washing machines when they have full loads to save on both water and electricity 

If doing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run, instead fill a plastic tub or sink with water for washing 

and rinsing 

Keep water in the refrigerator to save from running tap water to preferred temperature 

Put garbage in the trash rather than running it through the disposal 

Instead of pouring clean water down a drain, find another purpose such as watering a plant 

Report water faucet leaks or running toilets as soon as possible 

Energy is money. Spend it wisely. 

Saving energy reduces carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions. Our Michigan Alternative and 

Renewable Energy Center (MAREC) in Muskegon is helping to establish Michigan as a leader in the 

application of alternative emerging technologies. Helping the university with energy conservation is one way 

for everyone to team up in hopes of saving our non-renewable resources. 

From Cow to Wow! 

MAREC’s new biomass-to-electricity demonstration plan in Muskegon Country will convert both dairy cow 

and swine manure to methane gas, which will then be used to produce electricity. For more information about 

MAREC, visit: www.gvsu.edu/MAREC

Simple ways to conserve energy: 

Make sure water faucets are completely turned off, call maintenance at (616) 331-3000 to repair faucets 

that drip 

Turn off lights when not in use 

Dress according to the season especially for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons 

Use florescent bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs 

Open your shades; sunlight is our most efficient source of energy 

Unplug appliances that are not used regularly 

Turn off TVs, computers, radios, and stereos when not in use 

Set heating and cooling temperatures to energy saving levels 

To better control temperatures in rooms keep windows and doors closed-when appropriate 

Avoid using space heaters, NOTE: space heaters are prohibited in on-campus housing 

Use cold water settings for laundry and don’t over dry clothes 

Transportation 

There are alternative methods to driving in order to get to and from campus locations. Grand Valley, in 

collaboration with the Grand Rapids Interurban Transit Partnership, has established an effective bus 

transportation system. Designated Grand Valley routes have been incorporated to develop a transit culture at 

the University. Recent transportation improvements include the implementation of “park and ride” locations 

in Standale. 

Transportation Tips 

Keep vehicles tuned up and operating as efficiently as possible to help save on fuel costs 

If replacing a vehicle consider a hybrid car or a car with a higher fuel efficiency 

If operating a diesel vehicle consider using biodiesel as a fuel alternative 

o Go to http://drivealternatives.com/ to find the alternative fuel station that meets your needs 

Consider the following transportation alternatives: 

Take the bus- Schedules for the Rapid, including the Campus Connector, Off-Campus Apartment 

Shuttle, and the CHS Express, can be found at: www.ridetherapid.org 

Carpool when possible 

Take advantage of “park and ride” locations 

o Meijer on Wilson 

o Walker Fire Station on Kinney 

Ride your bicycle or walk to class 

Sustainability Pledge 

As responsible and active members of the on-campus community, we encourage you to incorporate behavior 

that will decrease long-term, detrimental effects to our environment, ecosystems, and social systems. Go to 

www.gvsu.edu/sustainability and click on the “Take the Pledge” link to see how you can pledge to make a 

difference.

Take Advantage of the �atural Beauty at Grand Valley 

The natural habitat is an important resource for the university and for the campus life of today as well as in 

the future. Everyone on campus can see, experience, and feel the presence of the natural surroundings, its 

existence cannot be taken for granted. Specific steps are taken to maintain, restore, renew, and preserve the 

natural setting that we enjoy. 

Take pleasure walking the campuses: 

Spend time in the Arboretum 

Enjoy the ravines, walking the trails and helping to protect them by keeping them free of trash 

Enjoy walking the campuses, taking pleasure in the plentiful grass and garden areas 

Don’t smoke or, at least, put cigarettes and litter in the appropriate receptacles 

Take advantage of the conveniently located benches 

Observe pond areas and riverwalks; including water gardens and retention ponds 

Enjoy and help to protect the wildlife that is found on campus 

Spend time enjoying the many seasonal colors offered by the natural setting and native plantings 

Initiatives that make Grand Valley a Sustainable University 

Grand Valley is fully committed to being a high quality, student-focused educational institution. It is this 

commitment to our students’ education that focuses our attention on the best practices of sustainability. 

Through this forward thinking education, students are empowered to affect the global community both now 

and in the future. 

Top 10 Ways to Enjoy a Sustainable Lifestyle at Grand Valley: 

1. Participate in Campus Sustainability Week activities in October and student sponsored sustainability 

events 

2. Appreciate and promote diversity and intercultural understanding; seek first to understand and speak out 

against intolerant acts 

3. Become active in student groups on campus 

4. Volunteer on campus and within the community 

5. Look for opportunities to mentor and tutor children or fellow students 

6. Donate to local charities through participation in Project Donation 

7. Consider an alternative spring break to help and serve others 

8. Investigate internships and projects that promote sustainable activity 

9. Take advantage of the many different classes and academic programs available at Grand Valley in order 

to learn more about sustainability 

10. Exercise and eat healthy

Policies and Procedures 

The Office of Housing and Residence Life helps students become productive and contributing citizens by 

fostering respect for self, others, and community. We are here to support your growth both personally and 

professionally and will make every effort to help you to feel at home while living with us. The policies and 

procedures outlined in this guide are centered around the theme of RESPECT; following these guidelines will 

aid in personal achievement in our residential communities. 

Rights and responsibilities are the essence of the rules and regulations within our communities. We address 

inappropriate behavior through an educational approach. 

Essentially we aim to develop living environments that value personal growth and development. To 

accomplish this, it is critical that individuals respect the rights of their fellow residents. 

Safety in the community is the responsibility of residents, their guests, and GVSU staff. Safety contributes to a 

campus living experience that is welcoming, valuable and memorable. 

Please remember to inform your guests of our policies. You are responsible for their conduct during their stay. 

Every student living on-campus is expected to know and abide by the rules and regulations as detailed 

throughout this guide. 

Creating community is central to all that we do. Creating a successful living and learning environment 

requires a commitment to our behavioral standards. 

The following standards of conduct provide a framework for your behavior as members of the campus 

community.

A 

ALCOHOL 

Traditional, Suite, Apartment-Style Living Centers: 

These buildings are designated as “Alcohol Free Environments.” This means, regardless of age, alcohol is not 

permitted in these buildings. Residents and guests may not store or possess alcohol, empty containers, or 

alcohol paraphernalia (such as shot glasses, beer steins, etc). This includes containers used as decoration. 

Calder Apartments, Grand Valley Apartments, Laker Village Apartments, Murray Living Center, 

�iemeyer Living Center, Ravine Apartments, Secchia Hall, South C/D/E Living Centers, VanSteeland 

Living Center, and Winter Hall: Residents and guests who are 21 years of age or older may consume and 

store alcohol in the privacy of their room/apartment. Underage residents and guests may not store or possess 

alcohol, empty containers, or alcohol paraphernalia (such as shot glasses, beer steins, etc). This includes 

containers used as decoration. 

U�DERAGE RESIDE�TS OR GUESTS ARE �OT TO BE PRESE�T WHE� ALCOHOL IS BEI�G 

CO�SUMED. 

Items such as kegs, bongs, open parties, and mass quantities are prohibited. Open containers of alcohol are not 

permitted in any public areas in or outside the on campus housing system. Underage residents will forfeit any 

cans or bottles confiscated from their possession. 

B 

BICYCLES/BIKE RACKS 

Bicycles are a great way to get around campus. If you have a bike please remember to park in bike racks around 

the residence halls. Bikes may not be kept in hallways, stairways, or public areas inside the residence halls or 

inside your residence hall/apartment. All bicycles should be legally parked, secured with a bike lock and 

registered with the Department of Public Safety. To register your bike go to www.gvsu.edu/publicsafety and 

click on “bike registration”. Your permit will be mailed to your on-campus mailing address. 

There is an air compressor on the east side of The Connection (near the patio) for students to fill bike tires. 

C 

CA�DLES/I�CE�SE 

Candles and incense have resulted in fires, injuries, and property damages. Therefore, the use or storage of 

candles and incense is NOT allowed in any of our on-campus housing units. Check out the PSA Fireman Frank 

and our own GVSU students created for YouTube, it provides humor and insight as to why candles on-campus 

are prohibited: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0q2_H6ce34&NR=1 

CHALKI�G 

Chalking at the University is permitted in certain designated sidewalk locations and only for the purpose of 

announcing campus activities, events or meetings of registered student organizations or sponsored by the 

University. Please see the Registered Student Organization Handbook for specific locations, 

www.gvsu.edu/rsohandbook/chalking-policy-17.htm 

CHARGES 

Charges are used by the Office of Housing and Residence Life to reduce damage, protect residents, and to 

stabilize housing costs. These charges are billed directly to the students account by the Office of Housing and 

Residence Life. Bills/charges may be paid online or at the service windows at the Student Services Building in 

Allendale or DeVos Building C downtown.

Individual room/apartment damages will be assessed by the full-time professional staff after departure/checkout. 

It is the responsibility of the occupant(s) to pay for the replacement or repair of damaged property within a 

resident’s room or in areas adjacent to it (i.e., windows, doors, and suite study areas). If you have any questions 

about this policy, see your Apartment Director/Living Center Director/Assistant AD/Assistant LCD. 

Fees may also be assessed within the community for actions including, but not limited to, leaving bags of trash 

in the hallway or propping exterior building doors. Public area damage remaining after final check out will be 

divided and charged to each resident’s billing account. 

Housing and Residence Life Charges and Fines 2010-2011 

Additional Cleaning $25 minimum per unit 

Bikes in Room $25 

Bunk Beds/Lofts Improper Assembly $50 

Cable/TV Port $50 

Carbon Monoxide Alarms (removal of) $100 

Exterior Doors (propping of) $25 per incident 

Failure to Prepare Room for �ew Roommate $50 

Fire Doors (unauthorized opening) $100 minimum 

Fire Extinguisher (replacement) $200 minimum 

Health/Hazardous Substance Fee $100 

Improper Checkout $25 

Lockout/Temp Key/Card Loan $10 

Lost Access Card $25 

Lost Laundry Card $25 

Lost Room Key Recore $55 minimum 

Multiple Room Change Fee $25 after the first 

Pets $50 minimum 

Public Furniture (removal of) $100 

Screen Removal $25 

Smoke Detector (removal of) $75 minimum 

Telephone/Internet Port $20 minimum 

Trash $10 minimum 

Unapproved Arrival or Departure (failure to vacate) $75 

Unauthorized Room Change $75 


Repair Charge (minimum) 

Bathroom Cabinets $20 

Bathroom Drawers $20 

Blinds $10 

Carpet $30 

Case Good Furniture $30 

Desk $30 

Desk Chair (Hag Wing Chair) $30 

Desk Chair (VIRCO) $10 

Dining Table $50

Door Locks $25 

Dresser $30 

Dresser Drawers $30 

Faucet $30 

Kitchen Cabinets $20 

Kitchen Drawers $20 

Light Fixture $20 

Lounge Seating Chair $50 

Lounge Seating Coffee Table $40 

Lounge Seating End Table $40 

Lounge Seating Sofa $75 

Lounge Seating Study Chair $50 

Lounge Seating Study Table $40 

Refrigerator $50 

Shower/Tub $50 

Sink $50 

Stove $50 

Vinyl Flooring $50 

Walls (Drywall and Paint) $10 

Window $30 

Window Screens $20 

Work Table $50 


**Replacement Charge (minimum) 

Bar Stool (RT London & Uloft) $150-$210 

Bed $205-$245 

Bed Bolts $1 each 

Bed Pins $1 each 

Bookshelf $124-$209 

Carpet $200-$500 

Desk $270-$325 

Desk Chair (Hag Wing Chair) $120 

Desk Chair (VIRCO) $25-$65 

Desk Drawer $35-$50 

Dining Chair (RT London and ULoft) $108-$120 

Dining Chair (VIRCO) $25 

Dining Table $187-$250 

Dishwasher $200 

Door $200 

Door Locks $150 

Dresser $279-$300 

Dresser Drawer $75 

Faucet $100 

Guardrail $49 

Ladder $81 

Light Fixture $40 

Lounge Seating Chair $500-$900

Lounge Seating Coffee Table $250-$400 

Lounge Seating End Table $150-$300 

Lounge Seating Sofa $800-$1200 

Lounge Seating Study Chair $120-$300 

Lounge Seating Study Table $140-$250 

Recycle Container-Building $120 

Recycle Container-Room $10 

Refrigerator $400 

Shower/Tub $300 

Sink $200 

Stove $500 

Trash Container $10 

Vinyl Flooring $200-$500 

Wardrobe $462 

Window $200 

Window Screens $80 

Work Table $270 

*Additional charges for items not on the list will be assessed on an individual basis. 

**Replacement charges apply to items that are broken beyond repair or missing. 

CO�SOLIDATIO� 

If space becomes available in a unit, the Office of Housing and Residence Life may assign a resident to the 

space or ask the remaining resident(s) to consolidate to rooms/apartments with other residents within the 

community who are in under-occupied spaces. Residents may also be given the option of paying for the empty 

space (at a reduced occupancy rate) in place of gaining a roommate, if space becomes available. Unless a 

resident is paying for an empty space, it should not be utilized by remaining resident(s) for storage, guests, etc. 

Current occupants will take another roommate(s) or move to another available space should they choose not to 

buy out the unit. Housing reserves the right to consolidate all rooms/apartments as stipulated in the Housing 

contract, Consolidation will start 10 days after the start of the fall and winter semesters. For more information, 

refer to section 5 of the Housing contract – Assignment to University Housing. 

CO�TRACT RELEASE 

The contract for Housing is a legal document that encompasses the entire academic year. Students are 

contracted from the day they sign the contract until the end of the winter semester in April. A student interested 

in canceling their contract must contact their Apartment Director/Living Center Director to obtain more 

information and a Contract Release Request Form. Certain fees apply when canceling the contract. There are 

specific dates by which you can cancel and corresponding fees depending on the date you cancel your contract. 

Please see www.gvsu.edu/housing for more information. 

CO�FISCATED ITEMS 

Residents who have prohibited items confiscated (candles, appliances, etc.) should contact their Living Center 

Director/Apartment Director. Students can arrange to pick up the item when they are able to take it away from 

their living center/apartment. Items left at the end of the year will be thrown away or donated to Project 

Donation. 

COOKI�G 

Cooking in student rooms in the traditional and suite style living centers with anything besides a 

microwave is a fire hazard and prohibited. Cooking is permitted only in kitchenettes provided in traditional, 

suite style, apartment style living centers, and on-campus apartments. Check out the PSA Fireman Frank and 

our own GVSU students created for YouTube, it is an educational lesson on cooking, and how leaving food on 

an unattended stove can lead to a fire: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sea8pbcqC7U&NR=1

D 

DECORATIO�S 

Contact paper is not allowed on any of the wood or painted surfaces in any room or apartment. Nails or hooks 

are NOT to be used in any of the walls. Materials advertised as “non adhesive” will peel off paint and can 

damage walls. No live decorative trees are allowed in any on-campus living area. Additional decorative lighting 

designated for interior use can only be utilized on the inside of any campus housing units with interior hallways. 

Exterior holiday lights designated for exterior use are only permitted on the first floor of on-campus apartment 

complexes. All decorative lights should be unplugged overnight or when the resident is not home. 

Pumpkins, hay bales, and corn stalks are not permitted for display in interior hallways. These items should be 

disposed of properly in a timely manner. Candles are not permitted inside pumpkins, even if they are located 

outside. Students with any questions regarding what is appropriate should seek approval from their Living 

Center/Apartment Director. 

DEPOSIT 

Each resident has a $150.00 deposit on file with the Office of Housing and Residence Life. This deposit will 

remain on file with the office until you move off-campus and/or depart from the university. All fees assessed to 

you throughout the year will be added to your student account. It is your responsibility to dispute any of these 

charges in writing to the Office of Housing and Residence Life at housing@gvsu.edu within 30 days of receipt. 

DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR 

Residents are prohibited from obstruction or disruption of University-related activities or inciting, aiding, or 

encouraging other persons to engage in such conduct. This also includes any conduct that substantially threatens 

or interferes with the maintenance of appropriate order and discipline, or activity that invades the rights of 

others. 

DESTRUCTIO� OF PROPERTY 

Residents and their guests are not permitted to damage university property by means of: vandalism, tearing 

down signs or bulletin boards, throwing trash, participating in water/food fights, etc. Destruction of university 

property will result in area damage charges. 

DRUGS 

The possession, distribution, or use of any illegal substance (i.e. narcotic drugs, marijuana, or illegally obtained 

prescription drugs) is prohibited. Campus Police will be notified if a resident is suspected of involvement in any 

illegal substances on campus. 

E 

ELECTRICAL APPLIA�CES 

The following items are �OT permitted in on-campus living centers/apartments: 

Air Conditioners (window/portable air conditioners are not permitted on-campus) 

Black Lights 

Hot Plates 

Halogen Lamps 

Major Appliances (Freezers, Dishwashers, Washer, Dryers, etc.) 

Microwave (that is greater than 1000 watts or multiple microwaves, only one microwave is permitted 

per unit) 

Multi-Light Lamps with Plastic Shades 

Multiple Power Strips (for safety reasons, only one power strip per resident is permitted) 

Open coils/toaster ovens

Refrigerators that are 4.4 cubic feet or more (Only traditional and suite style living centers are permitted 

to bring a refrigerator to campus, all other units are equipped with a refrigerator and multiple 

refrigerators in those units are NOT permitted) 

Toasters (toasters are ONLY permitted in apartments and apartment style living centers, which have 

kitchens within their living units) 

Waterbeds 

EMERGE�CY I�FORMATIO� 

Residents are expected to follow the prescribed emergency procedures or the directions of a GVSU staff 

member in case of accidents, threats, fire/explosions, tornado warning, unauthorized group action, or utilities 

failure. Please go to: www.gvsu.edu/emergencycontact to sign up for GVSU’s urgent notification system. 

Examples of possible messages include inclement weather closing information, or possible crises. 

E�TERI�G ROOMS 

The University reserves the right to make periodic inspections of student rooms/apartments. Housing and 

Residence Life staff may enter rooms/apartments whether or not student occupants are present. Housing & 

Residence Life staff will do health and safety inspections on a regular basis and during break closings. Facilities 

Services personnel may also enter rooms to make needed repairs. The University also reserves the right to 

inspect a particular room/apartment when staff members have a reasonable cause to believe that established 

health, safety, or University rules and regulations are being violated. 

EXTE�DED STAY REQUESTS 

Students wishing to remain in their units during break periods (Thanksgiving, winter break, spring break) may 

do so. Residents must contact their community desk to sign up for an extended stay. Students who are 

graduating and/or remaining on-campus for the spring/summer sessions will be permitted to remain on-campus 

after winter semester closing. Students must contact their Living Center/Apartment Director prior to the date 

provided in the closing information. Other students should make arrangements to vacate their unit by the Friday 

of finals week. 

F 

FIRE ALARMS 

Students are expected to vacate the building when a fire alarm is sounded. Failure to do so will result in 

disciplinary action. Misuse of the fire alarm system, including sounding a false alarm or tampering with 

extinguishers or smoke detectors, is prohibited. 

FIREARMS, WEAPO�S, A�D EXPLOSIVES 

The use or possession of inherently dangerous weapons that by nature are designed to cause injury or 

destruction are prohibited. This includes: air guns of any type, firearms, blowguns, bows, arrows, knives, 

sprays, TASERS, swords, martial arts implements, fireworks and explosives. 

Also prohibited are any other instruments that might not otherwise be considered as inherently dangerous 

weapons but are used in a manner that threatens the health and/or safety of any individual. 

Only small pocketknives (with blades less than two inches) and kitchen knives are permitted in the residential 

communities. 

FIREPLACES 

Permission MUST be given by an Apartment Director/Living Center Director/Assistant AD/Assistant LCD for 

any fire within communities that have wood burning fireplaces. The fire must be attended at all times.

FUR�ITURE A�D LOFTI�G 

All furniture assigned to student rooms, apartments, floor lounges, and other public areas must remain in their 

appropriate locations. The removal of University furniture from student rooms and/or public areas is prohibited. 

Residents are responsible for the proper care of University furniture, and will be charged for any damages, 

including repair and replacement costs at checkout. Bed rails must be attached to the bed at time of checkout. 

All furniture belonging to residents must be removed from campus prior to checkout time. Furniture left will be 

subject to removal at the owner's expense and is forfeited. 

Students are permitted to rearrange the furniture provided in their unit, but should not block vents or 

thermostats. Residents are not allowed to provide their own materials to build or modify lofts in the Living 

Centers or Apartments. 

G 

GAMBLI�G 

Any form of gambling is strictly prohibited. 

GRILLS 

Gas grills are permitted in apartment housing areas only. Permission MUST be given by an Apartment 

Director/Living Center Director/Assistant AD/Assistant LCD for the use of any grill within communities that 

have them. Grills should only be used in open areas with no overhead obstructions (i.e. awnings or balconies). 

The grills must be attended at all times. Grills and propane tanks must be stored outside at all times. No 

charcoal grills are permitted. 

GUEST POLICY 

Students may have guests visit their room, provided they have made prior arrangements with the roommate(s) 

and have received their permission. See Roommate Lifestyle Agreement. Visitation does not mean cohabitation 

and a guest’s stay should never exceed 2 nights in a given week. The University reserves the right to limit the 

frequency of guest visits. Guests must observe all University regulations and have to be accompanied by their 

host at all times. The student with whom the guest is staying is responsible for any infractions or damage caused 

by their guest. Guests who obstruct or disrupt the orderly function of the residence facilities may also be asked 

to leave by Housing and Residence Life Staff or the Campus Police. Failure to comply with established building 

rules and regulations will result in forfeiture of building visitation privileges. 

H 

HARASSME�T A�D I�TIMIDATIO� 

It is a priority at GVSU to maintain the campus as a place of work and study for all faculty, staff, and students 

free of physical and verbal harassment, including harassment based on age, weight, race, gender, ethnicity, 

sexual orientation, national orientation, political orientation, disability, religious preference, or other protected 

status. Harassment and intimidation WILL �OT BE TOLERATED in a residential community. Should a 

resident be found responsible for harassing and/or intimidating another resident or staff member, strict 

disciplinary action will be taken immediately, possibly resulting in removal from on-campus housing. Such 

action will be in accordance with University policies. For more information on GVSU’s inclusion and equity 

policies or to learn how to report a bias incident, visit: www.gvsu.edu/inclusion/ 

We encourage victims of harassment and/or intimidation to report the incident to a Housing and 

Residence Life staff member immediately. 

HOUSEKEEPI�G 

GVSU staff keeps all common areas of the residential communities clean. You and your roommate(s) are 

responsible for the cleaning and care of your residence.

K 

KEYS & ACCESS CARDS 

Residents are responsible for carrying their keys and access cards and keeping their room/apartment door 

locked at all times. Room/apartment keys/cards should not be transferred to other individuals. If your key is 

lost, report it immediately to your community’s front desk. There is a fee to be let into your room, have a loaner 

key/card, and get a replacement key/card. Loaner key/cards must be returned within 7 days to avoid being 

charged for a recore. Keys are required to be turned in when you move out of your residence. 

For safety and security, each resident must use their own card for access into residential buildings. "Tailgating” 

or “hitchhiking" is not permitted. Courtesy phones are located on the outside of each building for guests to call 

to the room they are visiting and wait for their residential host to allow them in. All residents are responsible for 

the actions of their guests. 

M 

MEAL PLA�S 

View meal plan information at: www.gvsu.edu/campusdine 

MESSAGE BOARDS 

Message boards/decorations are permitted to be hung on the outside of residential room doors, using appropriate 

methods to affix them and not interfering with safety policies. Blue tape “painter’s tape” is considered to be the 

best option for affixing message boards/decorations. Regarding safety policies, message boards/decorations 

shouldn’t block the keyhole or peephole or affect shutting of the door/keying into the door. Students should use 

this mode of communication to share inclusive messages with individual students and the GVSU community. 

Words of bias, hate and intolerance are not welcomed. Should a student view inappropriate messages, they are 

encouraged to contact a Housing and Residence Life staff member. Information/protocol about acts of 

intolerance and how to report them can also be obtained by visiting www.gvsu.edu/affirmative. Continued 

disrespectful use of message boards may lead to them being prohibited. 

MICROWAVES 

Microwaves are provided in the common areas of most Traditional and Suite Style Living Centers. Food must 

be attended at all times. Guides for cooking microwave popcorn are available near each microwave unit. 

Microwaves are permitted in individual rooms. There is a limit of 1 microwave per room or apartment, and it 

may not exceed 1000 watts. 

MOVIE VIEWI�G 

Due to copyright laws, the viewing of pre-recorded movies (VHS, DVD, Blu-Ray, etc.) in public areas is 

prohibited. This includes community centers, great rooms, and lounge areas. The rental or purchase of movies 

does not carry with them licenses for non-home showings. Your individual residential unit is considered to be 

your home and thus you can view movies within the confines of your residential unit. 

� 

�EEDLE DISPOSAL 

GVSU is responsible for protecting students and staff from safety and health hazards. In order to reduce the risk 

of transmission of blood borne pathogens, the Campus Health Center will provide SHARPS containers to 

students who are required to administer self-injected drugs. These containers are to be kept in the student’s 

room. The Campus Health Center will be responsible for the disposal of the containers.

�OISE/QUIET HOURS 

A goal of the Office of Housing and Residence Life is to create residential communities that support the 

academic environment. Therefore noise in any room should never impact other community members. Stereo 

equipment, including subwoofers, should not disturb others. When a resident’s activity disturbs neighbors, a 

prompt and positive response to another resident’s request to stop disruptive behavior is required. If the staff 

receives information regarding the excessive noise level in any room, the staff will ask the student to cease 

participation in the event. Failure to comply with request to reduce noise will result in disciplinary action. 

Residents will be required to restrict the noise level to allow for studying and sleeping during the following 

hours: 

Sunday – Thursday from 10pm - 10am 

Friday – Saturday from 12am - 10am 

Quiet hours also apply to noise made outside the building or in nearby parking lots. 

P 

During finals weeks, 24-hour quiet hours are in effect. 

PARKI�G 

Application and sales of parking permits for GVSU students is available through the Department of Public 

Safety, to purchase a permit or learn more about them please visit: www.gvsu.edu/publicsafety 

PERSO�AL PROPERTY A�D LIABILITY 

All personal property brought to GVSU is at the resident’s risk. Residents are advised to secure their own 

property protection through renters or homeowners insurance. Grand Valley State University is not liable for 

any unforeseen occurrences or acts of negligence by residents, guests, or other persons. This includes damage or 

loss of property, injury to others or inconvenience to residents, guests or other persons. 

PETS/WILD A�IMALS 

Pets are not allowed in any of Grand Valley State University’s housing areas. The only exception to this would 

be non-predatory aquarium fish in a 10-gallon tank or smaller in a resident’s room. If you are found to have a 

pet you will be charged a cleaning fee and be required to remove the pet from the unit at your expense 

immediately. For the safety of residents, please do not feed wild animals (cats, raccoons, etc.) that may linger 

around the living areas, doing so only results in them staying around. 

POOLS 

Kiddie pools and slip and slides are only permitted in Family Housing areas with parental supervision and 

should not be left out overnight. 

POSTI�G 

Each residence hall has bulletin boards containing important information. Posting on community bulletin boards 

or in any public area is prohibited by non-Housing and Residence Life staff members. Unauthorized posting 

will be removed. Be respectful of official postings as their information is beneficial to all residents. 

PROPPED DOORS 

To further promote building safety, the propping of any locked entrance or exit door is prohibited at all times. 

There is a $25 public area charge for every time that staff has to shut a propped door. Residents are encouraged, 

for their own safety and security, to lock their room doors. Residents should not provide building access to nonresidents, 

unless they are their personal guest.

PUBLIC AREAS 

Public areas in the housing units constitute any area, aside from the individual room/apartment, to which all 

residents have access. These areas are for resident/guest use only and are not for recreational use (i.e. sports). 

Furniture in public areas is intended for community use and is not to be moved into student rooms or 

apartments. Removing public area furniture will result in a fee. 

In addition, sleeping overnight is not permitted in the following areas: 

Hallways 

Lobbies and Great Rooms 

Study Lounges 

Computer Rooms 

Laundry Rooms 

Kitchens 

TV Rooms 

Classrooms 

Community Centers 

Items left in hallways, public areas, great rooms, etc. are the responsibility of the student. Items in these areas, 

belonging to students (shoes, trash, etc.) should never impede safe evacuation by residents or disrupt cleaning 

by University personnel. 

R 

RECREATIO� I� HALLWAYS A�D PUBLIC AREAS 

For the safety of all residents, playing sports within any living area is prohibited. Such activities must be 

confined to the outdoor areas, away from all buildings. Within a unit, any damage caused by flying objects 

(such as darts) or equipment will be billed to the resident(s) involved. In addition, students are not permitted to 

climb on campus housing facilities. Approved programs sponsored via the Office of Housing and Residence 

Life that are “sport centered” are permitted in the Great Rooms and Community Centers only. 

ROLLERBLADES, SCOOTERS, A�D SKATEBOARDS 

For the safety of all residents, the use of rollerblades, skateboards, or scooters are prohibited inside of all 

buildings on campus. Students wishing to rollerblade must put on and remove their skates outside of the 

buildings. Such equipment harms floor surfacing and damages will be charged to the residents. 

ROOFTOPS A�D BALCO�IES 

Access to rooftops or balconies are prohibited. Residents should not access these areas or throw items on 

rooftops or balconies. Students found on a balcony or rooftop of any housing unit will be referred for 

disciplinary action. Grand Valley Apartment balconies (including solariums) cannot contain grills or indoor 

furniture. 

ROOM A�D APARTME�T CHA�GES 

The Office of Housing and Residence Life allows students to change rooms after the first ten business days of 

each semester, with permission from their Living Center Director/Apartment Director, based on availability. 

The first room change request and resulting move by a student is free. Each additional room change request and 

resulting move within an academic year will result in a $25 fee. The proper room change for the current room 

assignment must be followed prior to beginning the move.

Unauthorized room changes will result in disciplinary action and a $75 improper room change fee will be 

charged to students that do not follow the proper procedures. Students moving without authorization must also 

move back to their original room assignment. 

ROOM MODIFICATIO�S 

Residents are welcome to make their rooms comfortable. However, due to facility restrictions and health and 

safety issues, there are guidelines. Drilling, sawing, or attaching items to walls, floors, or ceilings with screws, 

nails, glue, or other devices is not allowed. Students may not permanently alter walls, ceilings, or floors. 

Window furnishings may not be replaced or added in any way. 

S 

SAFETY/SECURITY 

The Housing and Residence Life staff considers the safety and security of residents a top priority. To promote a 

safe environment we utilize a number of security measures. Maintaining a safe environment is everyone’s 

responsibility. Actions that jeopardize the safety of other residents include but are not limited to the following: 

Consumption of alcohol or illicit drugs 

Possession of a weapon 

Discharging fire extinguishers when there is no fire 

Propping doors open that should be closed or locked 

Removing screens from windows 

Any form of vandalism 

Any of the above actions will result in disciplinary action. 

SCREE�S 

Residents should not enter or vacate a room through the window. Screens in all rooms and apartments must 

remain on the window at all times, except in cases of emergency. Removal of screens will result in a $25 

charge. 

SELF-I�FLICTED HARM 

A behavioral contract may be required when residents endanger themselves due to misuse of prescription drugs, 

over the counter drugs or other substances; acts of self-mutilation or any behavior intended to hurt themselves; 

or threats of behavior which could be harmful. 

SMOKI�G 

Smoking is prohibited in any university building. You must be at least 25 feet away from the building in order 

to smoke. 

SOLARIUMS 

Some Grand Valley Apartment (GVA) units include solariums. Solariums are enclosed porches and should not 

be used as bedrooms; therefore sleeping in this area is not permitted. Doing so is a threat to a resident’s health 

and safety. 

SOLICITATIO� 

Solicitation by businesses, political or religious organizations is not permitted in on-campus housing units. 

Salespersons may not solicit door to door. Food delivery persons must make their transactions in the lobby. 

Residents may not use their rooms, phone, or university-provided internet connections for commercial purposes, 

including solicitation or sales.

STUDE�T IDE�TIFICATIO� CARD (STUDE�T ID) 

Your student identification card is a means for: using your student meal plan, riding the RAPID, admission into 

the Fieldhouse, admission for GVSU Athletics Events, picking up packages at your front desk, etc. Your student 

ID is not transferable and is to be used only by the person to whom it is issued. 

SUBLETTI�G 

The accommodations granted by the University Housing contract may be used only by the assigned resident, in 

your capacity as a registered student. Your space cannot be transferred or sublet to another individual(s). 

V 

VOLU�TARY COMPLIA�CE 

Students are expected to follow reasonable requests by Housing and Residence Life Staff, or other University 

Officials acting in their official capacity. Additional information is available in the Student Code. 

As a reminder, if there are questions about any Housing & Residence Life policies, please speak with a 

staff member. The Student Code is also available online at: www.gvsu.edu/studentcode

Roommate Lifestyle Agreement 

Roommate Relationships 

Residential life includes the need for students to adjust to living in close quarters with another individual who 

may come from a very different background. We encourage students to be accepting and open-minded, and 

make every effort to live with each other before requesting a room change. 

Managing Conflict 

Tips for Getting Along With Roommates 

1. Talk straight. Talk to the person that you have a problem with directly. Level with each other. Use I 

statements (i.e. “When you do X in situation Y, I feel Z.”). 

2. Validate other’s positions. Try to understand others’ points of view even when they differ from your 

own. 

3. �egotiate. Attack problems, not each other. Come to an agreement on what the conflict is and on what a 

solution might be. Make a plan of action that will help you to achieve the solution. 

4. State issues positively. Instead of detailing why you can’t do what someone asks of you, state what you 

are willing to do. 

5. Don’t gossip. Try not to involve your neighbors or mutual friends in your conflict. 

6. Call your RA. When an objective third party is needed, contacting the Housing and Residence Life staff 

early can only help. 

**From the Counseling Center at the University of Virginia. 

What is Mediation? 

Mediation is a confidential, voluntary, non-judicial process that helps people resolve their own conflicts and 

design their own solutions. 

Mediation begins with the disputing parties agreeing to meet with two neutral facilitators (called “mediators”) 

who guide them step-by-step through a problem-solving process. 

The mediators help the parties define the issues, identify common interests, clarify needs and generate relevant 

options. The disputing parties agree to share information, communicate in good faith, make decisions, and 

ultimately create a mutually acceptable agreement that resolves the dispute. 

There are many great resources at GVSU to help you through a conflict. As mentioned above, contacting a 

Housing and Residence Life staff member is one of the first ways that you can be proactive. Additionally, you 

can contact the Dean of Students Office at 616-331-3585. If mediation is appropriate, the Dean of Students 

Office will suggest the steps necessary for setting this up. 

The Purpose of a Roommate Lifestyle Agreement 

This lifestyle agreement was developed to assist roommates in addressing community living issues before they 

become a problem. College is a time of growth and discovery. A lot of freedom comes with living on your own; 

adjusting to that independence is a true learning experience. As you develop and change, the ground rules that 

you negotiated with your roommate may need to change as well.

Many people feel that you have to like each other or be friends to be roommates. This helps, because people 

who like each other share common interests, communicate freely, and are tolerant of each other; however, 

people who live together do not have to be friends, or even like each other. Talking freely, sharing ideas and 

opinions, and negotiating ways to handle situations can be done even when friendship does not exist. This can 

be done through mutual respect and understanding. 

Do this now! 

Be honest about what you need. 

Recognize that you can use this as a guide for discussion. 

Revisit this with your roommate if you are having problems. 

Talk to your RA. They really can help! 

Roommate’s Bill of Rights 

Each roommate should initial each statement as an acceptance of responsibility for living with 

a roommate. 

Each roommate has: 

The right to read and study without interference, 

unreasonable noise and other distractions. 

The right to sleep without undue disturbances. 

The right to have personal privacy in one’s own room. 

The right to live in a clean environment. 

The right to host guests, with the understanding that 

the guests will honor the other resident’s rights. 

The right to have free access to one’s room. 

The right to be free from intimidation and physical or 

emotional harm. 

The right to air grievances; the Housing and Residence 

Life staff may be helpful in assisting in settling conflicts. 

The right to expect respect for one’s personal 

belongings and property. 

The right to expect that these privileges will be 

respected.

Roommate Lifestyle Agreement 

Use the following agreement as a guide to discuss the issues involved with living together. Feel 

free to add specific terms or use additional paper if necessary. 

Use of Personal Property (WP- with permission, A- anytime, DU-don’t use) 

Stereo 

TV 

CD’s and DVD’s 

Computer 

Clothes 

Dishes 

Food 

Toiletries 

Other 

�eatness/Cleanliness (Who will clean? D-Daily, W-Weekly) 

Dirty Laundry 

Trash 

Vacuuming 

Dirty Dishes 

Bathroom (if applicable) 

Kitchen 

Other

Study Times and �oise Level (��- no noise, QT- quiet talking, �V- normal voices) 

Morning 

Afternoon 

Evening 

Late �ight 

Visitation 

Consider same and opposite gender guests for weekdays as well as weekend hours and behavior. 

Phone Usage 

Talk about calling hours, privacy, taking messages and answering machines. 

Communication 

Come up with a plan for how you will communicate when there is a concern. 

Social Behavior 

Consider noise, music, TV volume and invited guests. 

So you have a roommate…… 

Maybe someone you have known for a long time, maybe not. Chances are that at least one of you have had a 

room alone, maybe for several year and you haven’t had to be concerned about someone else’s needs or options. 

If you are forming a new relationship or rooming with someone you know, you are likely to be on your best 

behavior, most of us are when we are building friendships. But best behavior evaporates after awhile, and 

sharing a room can be a great experience, or it can bring problems or both! 

**Taken from “Building a Good Roommate Relationship Through Making Better Choices” by Richard C. 

�elson 6/5/2 

Agreement Signature and Date 

We have openly discussed all issues and created guidelines for our room. We agree to follow these guidelines 

and re-negotiate when necessary. We also take responsibility to approach one another about any guidelines that 

may need to be adjusted as the academic year progresses. 

Signature and Date 



Signature and Date

Residential Services Guide - Grand Valley State University

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