Laker Effect prominent during opening ceremonies

The new academic year had a ceremonial start August 26 when new students gathered for convocation and faculty and staff members listened to President Thomas J. Haas' opening address.

The Laker Effect was the underlying theme at both events, as the two audiences learned that the image campaign reaches beyond billboards and photographs to positively impact student success, community and alumni engagement. 

During convocation in the Fieldhouse, Haas told first-year students that the definition of Laker Effect is nearly limitless, as the phrase means superior performance in teaching, research, service and inclusiveness.

"Laker Effect at the end of the day comes down to leadership," Haas said. "We are an institution of higher learning. Open inquiry and intellectual curiosity are integral to our health on campus. We are dedicated to hearing different voices."

Other speakers at convocation wove the Laker Effect into advice to the Class of 2020. Danielle Leek, associate professor of communications, said she views Laker Effect as "bringing all kinds of like-minded people together." Leek was quick to caution that like-minded in that instance doesn't mean sharing the same thoughts and agreeing on ideas.

"It means we all believe that learning has the power to do something great," Leek said.

Student Senate President Ella Fritzemeier gave advice to students about going to class, engaging with faculty members and joining organizations. She hoped that through her advice, first-year students would learn more about what it means to be part of the Laker family.

"Here we care about each of you, and want you to succeed in every way possible," Fritzemeier said.

Karen Gipson, chair of the University Academic Senate, encouraged students to find balance in their lives, and she referred to more than the balance between classes and co-curricular activities.

"I hope you find the balance between acceptance and effort, and a place where your deep joy meets your community's needs," Gipson, professor of physics, said. 

Provost Gayle R. Davis addressed a segment of the new students, those who are the first in their families to attend college. "This is a dramatic moment in your life, and one that comes with added pressure on you," she said. "I can assure you that Grand Valley will be attentive to your needs."

Earlier in the day during his opening address, Haas told faculty and staff members that the Laker Effect models the university's strategic plan and its values.

"The plan calls for us to retain our focus on students and our values as a liberal education institution," he said. "It also calls on us to prepare and participate in the upcoming comprehensive campaign."

Haas said the campaign also aligns with the timeframe of the strategic plan, ending in 2021. He said funds would be raised to meet future challenges including increasing student access, retention and affordability, and student success and capital projects, like the expanded health campus, that keep academic programs relevant to students and employers.