<p>Kent (where Grand Rapids is located) and Ottawa Country (where Grand Valley is) had the largest population surges from 2010 to 2012 leading all other Michigan metro areas and the area passed the million population mark. There is alot good happening in that region with some visionary leaders bringing economic growth, urban renewal, and the influx of young people that economic growth, urban renewal and a growing vibrant college community bring. GVSU has 2 campuses the original and a downtown campus right in the heart of Grand Rapids now vibrant downtown. Lake Michigan beaches are a 45 minute drive from GR and alittle closer from GVSU original campus. I don’t forsee any issues for that college in the near future. Grand Rapids also has a strong civic leadership that partner with influence and money to push growth. The Medical Mile, the new Med school, the Van Andel research institute have brought new families from far and wide. The non-union manufacturing in the area has allowed many national and international companies to put down roots. It will be ‘tough’ and take some bad management for GVSU NOT to grow. Student population now is at approx. 25,000 students since it’s founding in the 60s. For lovers of the art GR has an opera, a ballet company, a symphony, theater and Art Prize. Bill Seidman was an early visionary for the area having grown up in Grand Rapids and returned to start an accounting firm before rising to FDIC chai and who also had a strong hand in the establishment of GVSU. The business school is named for him. The next decade will be an interesting time for Michigan’s “other public universities”. Northern is a huge bargain and very generous with merit aid and more kids see it as a viable place to go as costs continue to escalate down state.</p>