Grand Valley State University - Traverse City

05/28/2026

Benzie County Residents – we want to hear from you!

The GVSU Physician Assistant Studies program is conducting a research survey evaluating how Benzie county residents are managing their high blood pressure. If you are:
- A resident of Benzie county
- 18 years or older
- Have been told you have high blood pressure (hypertension)

We need your help! We are looking for individuals who fit the above criteria.

Link to the survey found below or scan the QR code on the picture: https://gvsu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6hhA4c53pN5q4Pc

Time for completion: 15 minutes
Principal Investigators: Katie Treston-Torney, PA-C, ATC & Sam Purifoy, PA-S
Contact: [email protected] & [email protected]
Grand Valley Physician Assistant Studies Program
College of Health Professions
Northern Michigan Region
James Beckett Building
1890 College Dr.
Traverse City, Mi 49684

05/21/2026

We're excited about the new articulation agreement between GVSU's College of Computing and Northwestern Michigan College!

“The future of computing talent development depends on collaboration, access and mobility. These agreements are another step toward building that future.” - Dean Marouane Kessentini

GVSU College of Computing

Agreements with Muskegon Community and Northwestern Michigan colleges create transfer pathways for students to continue their education after earning associate degrees.

05/21/2026

Congratulations to Nick! Amazing acknowledgment for the tremendous efforts put forth to help establish the program here in Northern Michigan!

Bringing vital healthcare education right to our backyard! 🩺🌲

Nicholas Kopacki (Class of 2014) is an Assistant Professor and the Founding Site Director for Grand Valley State University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Program right here in Traverse City. He proudly helped launch this essential regional program, which was built on a strong, supportive partnership with NMC.

While his career is in medicine, his foundation is rooted in family. His parents didn’t have the opportunity to pursue a college education, but they instilled in him the ultimate life lessons: that hard work, consistency, and humility can create opportunities far beyond your circumstances. 💼✨

Today, Nicholus is paying those lessons forward. He’s expanding his impact through education and storytelling—both as the host of the Michigan Academy of Physician Associates podcast and through a new book he's writing about the life-changing power of mentorship and learning from others' journeys. 🎙️📚

Click the link to read his full, inspiring story: 🔗 https://www.nmc.edu/about/foundation/alumni/outstanding-alumni-2026.html

05/19/2026

Congrats to an amazing GVSU alum, Marcelo Betti, for winning Traverse City's Sara Hardy Humanitarian Award!

GVSU Alumni

05/04/2026

GVSU's Northern Region held our first ER skills days for the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program at our regional center in NMC's Beckett building! 🩺 Thanks to investments in both faculty and facilities over the last few years, students no longer need to travel to Grand Rapids for this skills event.

Abby Bobbitt PA-C, who works at Munson Healthcare Great Lakes Plastic Surgery and Skin Center was able to help our 2nd year PA students master the skill of suturing. She even caught the inquisitive eye of NMC President Nissley!

Great Lakes Plastic Surgery & Skin Center PC Northwestern University Grand Valley State University GVSU College of Health Professions

04/23/2026

Our students are working hard...and so are our local therapy dog visitors! This week, we had some furry friends onsite to help students relax and unwind a little as we head into the end of the semester. Hosting therapy dogs like Jasper helps spread the 🐾 paw-sitive energy around the whole office!

04/22/2026

It was an honor to host USMC Major General Michael Lehnert (Ret.) at GVSU - Northern Region.

Gen. Lehnert discussed leadership with our students and faculty during our INT 331: Person and Profession in a Global Environment class and annual Etiquette Dinner. Drawing on 37 years of service, Gen. Lehnert moved beyond physical courage to highlight intellectual and moral courage as the true pillars of leadership. Students across all disciplines gained invaluable insights on national security, sustainability, and global trade. Thank you, General Lehnert, for your service and for bridging the gap between the classroom and the international stage.

04/20/2026

Exciting update! Grand Valley - Northern Region's new clinical equipment has been installed, including otoscopes, ophthalmoscopes, and other hands-on tools. It’s incredibly energizing to see the space continue to come to life in such a tangible way. 🩺

This improvement was made possible through the Impact 30 Grant from the Charter Schools Office, and it’s especially timely as we prepare to welcome our first group of charter school students from Greenspire this May. ⚓

We can't wait to see how this equipment will enhance our programming and deepen engagement with prospective students interested in health careers. GVSU Division of K-12 Education Innovation and Scholar Success

04/15/2026

The Grand Valley State University - Traverse City team is thrilled to share that one of our students, Matt, has been selected as a recipient of the Thomas M. Seykora Award! 🏆

The Seykora Award honors seniors who, through their involvement and leadership, have made significant contributions to the GVSU campus community. Matt was chosen as one of only six awardees from the entire GVSU undergraduate Class of 2026, which is truly an outstanding achievement.

This award is among the most prestigious recognitions of student leadership at Grand Valley State University. ⚓️ Congratulations, Matt! Grand Valley State University