Aaron, who has served as board member and vice chair, was unanimously elected, and will replace Elizabeth Emmitt when her term ends at the end of this year.
Grand Valley State University’s Board of Trustees elected its new chair on July 10. GVSU graduate and labor attorney from Westland, Michigan Mikyia S. Aaron was elected in a unanimous vote.
Aaron was chosen for the position based on her performance as vice chair of the Board for the past two years. Corewell Health executive Elizabeth Emmitt is her predecessor, leaving the board after her term expires at the end of this year.
In an article posted on Grand Valley State University’s website, Aaron was quoted about her election, saying, “I could not be more excited to help lead the Grand Valley Board as the university boldly makes good on empowering learners in their pursuits, professions and purpose. As a Laker for a Lifetime, my passion for GVSU runs deep. I am committed to continuing Beth Emmitt’s work as a steward of this great university and to ensuring it remains among Michigan’s best and most-affordable options for higher learning.”
Aaron was originally appointed to the board of trustees back in 2021. That term ends in 2028. She completed her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and psychology from Grand Valley State University, before going on to earn her master’s degree in criminal justice and corrections from Wayne State University. From there she went to the University of Detroit Mercy to earn her Juris Doctor.
Also at the meeting a new vice chair was named. CEO of Bridgewater Interiors, LLC, a Detroit based automotive interiors manufacturing firm, Ronald E. Hall, was granted the honor. Hall was first named to the board back in 2023. His term expires in 2030. He lives in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
Grand Valley State University’s President, Philomena V. Mantella, spoke about the appointments, saying, “I look forward to continuing to work with Mikyia and Ron during these uniquely challenging times for higher education. Their leadership and perspective are critical as we look with optimism at the opportunities for serving our students and our community.”
More information about Grand Valley State University can be found at the school’s website.