Finally, after a long period of deliberation and radio silence once university governance passed our resolution (back in April of 2022), I learned today that construction work to install safety barriers on the Little Mac Bridge began earlier this month. I was beginning to wonder if any tangible results would come from this petition, so I’m indescribably grateful and enthralled that it’s come to fruition at last. This is proof - lasting change often takes time, effort, and a non-linear journey to the destination, but if enough voices come together, it is possible. You don’t have to call yourself an activist or do Toastmasters to catalyze change - I was just a regular college student who decided to write a petition on something I care about. I didn’t have high hopes that it would go anywhere, but the proof is in the pictures. Now I’ve gone on to focus my career on suicide prevention in the healthcare industry, where I’m continuing this mission to save lives that I began at GVSU, and it all started with deciding to write one late-night petition. So, your call to action: Take up the mantle of change making, at GVSU or wherever your life’s road takes you - you might be surprised how much can be accomplished. Special thanks to the staff at Change.org for their advisory assistance, my petition co-author Reagan McLaughlin, and most of all, my parents who believed in me and supported me throughout this process - this could not have been accomplished without you!