Writing Standards

Consistent writing unifies campus messaging and helps our audiences better understand us. The intent of this Editorial Style Guide is to serve as an effective resource for communicators across the Grand Valley campus to establish consistency in editorial style for websites, print publications, social media and more.

Grand Valley generally follows Associated Press (AP) style, but we do make some exceptions. They are covered in this guide.

For guidance on editorial style issues not covered on the website, please consult the Associated Press Stylebook or contact University Marketing at [email protected] or (616) 331-2525. For questions concerning donor-named spaces or programs, please contact University Development at (616) 331-6000.

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General

  • alumni graduation years

    In sentences
    The preferred style is to place commas after their name and after the year.
        Jane Doe, ’99, now owns her own company. 

    For multiple graduation years, use an ampersand (&).
        Jane Doe, ’99 & ’02, now owns her own company.
        Jane Doe, ’99, ’00 & ’02, now owns her own company.

    It is also acceptable to omit the commas based on discretion and personal preference.
        Jane Doe ’99 now owns her own company.

    In lists, pull quotes, or internal email signatures
    Omit the commas and use the format "Name ’XX".
        Jane Doe ’99
        John Doe ’00 & ’01

        "I love Grand Valley with all my heart."
        - Jane Doe ’17

        John Doe ’16
        Manager
        ABC Department

    A single closing apostrophe (’) appears in front of the date. The keyboard shortcut to create a single closing apostrophe is as follows:
    On PC/Windows: Alt + 0146 
    On Mac: Option + shift + ]

    See also: class year

Proper Names

  • Alumni House and Visitor Center

    Use on all references. Not Visitor's or Visitors.