GSU Alumni Return to Form Partnerships

Governor State Alumni Mychael Vanarsdale ( 2016), visited campus frequently as a child when he father attended graduate classes here.

Years later, Vanarsdale returned for his own degree in Communications. Now, he’s bringing junior high and school students to campus as part of two partnerships recently formed between TriO programs—3 Seeds Mentoring Group and the Gloria J. Taylor Foundation —and GSU.

“We are the college support system for our students,’’ said Vanarsdale, program coordinator 3 Seeds, a nonprofit that supports disadvantaged youth in Chicago’s South Suburbs.

Vanarsdale’s 3 Seeds joined the Gloria J. Taylor Foundation in signing agreements with GSU to help create and implement programs at schools throughout the Southland, including Hillcrest Hill School, to prepare the next generation of college students.

Theresa Dixon is CEO of the Gloria J. Taylor Foundation, created in honor of her deceased mother who was first female and African American elected in Harvey in 1977.

Dixon, a GSU alumnae, said her mother instilled a legacy of community support she is fulfilling at GSU.

“I stand as a product of the quality education available at GSU. I came back as an adult learner. My son was in child care here and he graduated from here.”

Kristy Goodwin, Director of the GSU College Pathways Program, said good partnerships bring good results.

“It’s important to build solid relationships—especially with alum of GSU—to bring exposure to our institution for overall student success.”

Goodwin joined GSU Provost Beth Cada, as well as Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Aurelio Valente, and Dean of Students Corey Williams, for the signing event.

“I’m just so impressed with your organizations, and to know GSU is your partner is exciting,’’ Cada said to Vanarsdale and Dixon. “The fact that you two are alumni is just icing on the cake.’’