April commencement expands to three ceremonies

Grand Valley's April commencement is expanding from two ceremonies to three ceremonies. The change will begin at commencement scheduled for April 28 and 29 at Van Andel Arena. 

One ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 28; two ceremonies will take place on Saturday, April 29 (10 a.m. and 3 p.m.). December 2016 commencement will remain the same with one ceremony. 

Provost Gayle R. Davis said an additional ceremony will improve the overall commencement experience for students and their guests. 

"Commencement is a time to celebrate students' accomplishments and their transition from one chapter of life to the next," said Davis. "It's an important day for friends and family members who have been supportive throughout their student's journey. The addition of a third ceremony will decrease the length of the ceremonies and increase overall student participation to make for an exciting and meaningful experience for everyone."

Bob Stoll, associate dean for Student Life, said with a third ceremony, there will be additional space for students to invite more guests. The number of tickets each student receives will increase from five tickets to nine tickets. 

"Each year we find that students often want to invite more than five guests, and it can be stressful to find extra tickets," said Stoll. "We know it's important for family and friends to be there as students walk across the stage."  

The April 28 ceremony will include Seidman College of Business, College of Community and Public Service, and Padnos College of Engineering and Computing. The 10 a.m. ceremony on April 29 will include the College of Health Professions, Kirkhof College of Nursing and science programs from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The 3 p.m. ceremony on April 29 will include the College of Education, Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies and liberal arts programs from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Each ceremony will include approximately 1,000 students.  

Visit www.gvsu.edu/commencement to learn more.