New U.S. citizens take oath at DeVos Center

Sixty-three people from 34 different countries were sworn in as new American citizens during a naturalization ceremony held September 28 at the DeVos Center.

Polly Diven, professor and director of International Relations, said it was the first time the ceremony was held at Grand Valley. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is the typical site, but because it is serving as an ArtPrize venue officials from the Detroit office of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services looked for a new location.

Elizabeth Gnesotto said the DeVos Center was the perfect location. Gnesotto is an immigration services officer who graduated from Grand Valley with a degree in international relations in 2009.

"I'm honored to be here for you on the most important day in your lives at this campus, which is so important to me and which gave me so many opportunities," Gnesotto said.

After a roll call of the 34 countries represented, each new citizen had their name called and received a certificate.

Gayle R. Davis, provost and executive vice president for Academic and Student Affairs, welcomed participants and said she, too, was glad the event was held at Grand Valley as it presented a good learning opportunity for students.