Colorado Mesa University reported that the Groves family's multi-generational history with the institution spans decades of academic achievement, public service, and ongoing support for students.
James Groves graduated from Grand Junction Junior College in 1929. Following his early education locally, James Groves went on to serve as a Colorado Supreme Court justice for 12 years. Decades later, Colorado Mesa University recognized James Groves as a distinguished alumnus in 1969.
The family's connection to the local institution continued with later generations. Erik Groves attended Colorado Mesa University, where Erik Groves participated in Associated Student Government. Seeking to honor the family's legacy, Erik Groves and Jared Wright established the Justice James K. Groves Scholarship.
Erik Groves told Colorado Mesa University, "If you are looking for proof of what can start at Colorado Mesa University, you could not invent a better example."
Later, John Groves made an additional contribution to the scholarship fund. John Groves told Colorado Mesa University, "We are a family of immigrants to the Grand Valley. My grandmother came here in a covered wagon in the latter part of the 19th century. Dad was a graduate of the college, and since a scholarship had already been established in his name, we thought it only appropriate to honor his memory by making an additional contribution."
Through these generational ties, the Groves family continues to maintain a visible connection to the Grand Valley institution.
