Upon first impression, Sophomore Gabe Grosshuesch has been described as the tall redhead with many opinions. As a man of many opinions and passions armed with the determination to make them heard, Gabe has been able to shape a distinct yet diverse niche for himself in the Gustavus community.
“I’ve had the opportunity to watch Gabe grow as a student and find his voice in this community. In my first interaction with Gabe at an “I Am We Are” meeting last year, he stood up and shared his opinion. I was impressed that someone in his first year could sit in a room filled with people he didn’t know and have the courage to say what needed to be said. I can always count on this with Gabe,” Senior Nikki Rom said.
“He’s had a hand in many organizations and he does them all well. He truly loves the community. ”—Awushie Fayose
Spending the first fifteen years of his life in Hawaii before moving to Minnesota during high school, Gabe has experienced and grown to appreciate different cultures and learned to empathize with those in the minority. In his time at Gustavus, he’s grown most passionate about African culture.
“Growing up in Hawaii, I was exposed to many different cultures and even knew what it felt like to be in the minority. Even though I recognize that I still had white privilege, I think I learned to relate to people. When I joined the Pan Africa Student Organization (PASO) at Gustavus, I fell in love with different African cultures, and I’ve been focused on Africa ever since,” Gabe said.
“I was impressed that someone in his first year could sit in a room filled with people he didn’t know and have the courage to say what needed to be said.”—Nikki Rom
Not only is Gabe passionate about many things, but he is very involved in organizations related to his interests. He is the Diversity Chair of Student Senate, Co-President of Queers and Allies, a member of the College Interfaith Advisory Board, PASO, Hmong American Cultural Outreach (HACO), I Am We Are, Gustie Guides, and teaches a cardio dance class.
“Gabe became a leader in the Gustavus community very early on. He’s had a hand in many organizations and he does them all well. He truly loves the community which shows not only in his willingness to cultivate relationships but also to be involved in the difficult conversations that will lead to the growth and betterment of this community,” Junior Awushie Fayose said.
The betterment of the Gustavus community and cultivation of relationships is unquestionably a focus of Gabe’s. With the rest of his time here, Gabe would like to continue building relationships through involvement in organizations, but also to see Gustavus continue to grow into an institution that others can come to appreciate as much as he does.
“I always want to be more involved. I love being able to walk by someone down the hall and know who I’m walking with. I also think it’s important to get as much out of this school as I can and give back as much as I can. Gustavus is a wonderful place and I want to see it keep evolving so that others realize that as well,” Gabe said.
For those who have come to know Gabe, it isn’t a question of whether he can make an impact on the community but how he’s already doing so.
“In just over a year, Gabe has made an impact on the way I live my life and I am sure other Gusties can say the same. He does so much more than many people could hope to do. He gives 100 percent to each thing regardless of the infinite nature those involvements may seem to have. Gabe is a Gustie through and through,” Rom said.
