Convocation speakers welcome students, usher in academic year

Speakers at Convocation, the traditional start to the academic year, welcomed new students to their new home during an evening event August 24 in the Fieldhouse Arena on the Allendale Campus.

President Philomena V. Mantella addressed students and said the university offers more than a place to live and learn.

"The Laker community is not just a place to call home, but a place where you discover your purpose and strengthen your passion," Mantella said. "Your journey here will be unique in every sense of the word. It will be yours to shape. Yours to reshape.  

"However, you will not walk this journey alone. The faculty and staff are here to empower you." 

Mantella also noted members of the Board of Trustees who participated in the event, including Victor Cardenas, who offered remarks during a ceremonial lighting of the G-V-S-U.  

Fatma Mili, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs, said she had something in common with many in the audience.

"Like you, this is my first semester at Grand Valley, and I am excited to join the Laker community," Mili said. "Many of you probably do not know what a provost is, or does, and that is OK."

Mili pointed out the faculty members who were in attendance. "They are all ready for you. They are Laker ready. This means that they will interact with you with respect, curiosity, empathy and the highest possible expectations," she said.

Faith Kidd, president of Student Senate, told her peers that she arrived at Grand Valley four years ago as "the big fish in a small pond." Kidd, a senior who is majoring in political science, advised new students not to compare themselves to others, get involved and go beyond their comfort levels.

"You are all unique individuals who will spend the next years of your life at Grand Valley growing into yourself, learning more about yourself, and experiencing personal successes," Kidd said. "There is not a singular space for you to succeed, instead at GVSU you will be given the resources and support you need to find your own interests and you do not need to compare yourself to others."

Shayna Davis, a sophomore who is majoring in theater, presented a spoken word performance. The Laker Dance Team and Laker Marching Drumline also performed.