The Bill Seidman statue created by artist J. Brett Grill, stands in tribute to L. William “Bill” Seidman, recognized as the founder of Grand Valley State University.
In 1960, Grand Valley became Michigan’s 10th state-supported college. Bill Seidman played a pivotal role in raising the $1 million required to receive legislative support for building a four-year college in the Grand Rapids area. His vision and drive, along with the support of other founding families, culminated in the establishment of Grand Valley State College in 1963.