Thomas J. Haas will make his first remarks as Grand Valley president at convocation ceremonies on August 25.
He will be joined on stage by President Emeritus Arend D. Lubbers, University Academic Senate Chair Rob Franciosi and Provost Gayle R. Davis.
Convocation, the official start of the academic year, will begin at 11 a.m. in the Fieldhouse. Faculty and staff members who plan to participate will robe in the north atrium area of Henry Hall and process at 10:45 a.m.
Awards will be given for Distinguished Contribution in a Discipline, Outstanding Service and Outstanding Teacher. Also, four faculty members will be recognized for 25 years of service: Patricia Matthews, assistant professor of biology; Sandra E. Portko, professor of psychology; David L. Rathbun, professor of communications; and James F. Wolter, professor of marketing.
Following the ceremony, all students, faculty and staff members are invited to an all-campus picnic, which will run from noon-1:30 p.m. under a tent at the Cook Carillon Tower.
