Parents offer advice to new Lakers

"Follow your dreams," "Make good decisions" and "Enjoy the adventure" are just some words of advice parents and family members offered their children as the Class of 2020 moved to Grand Valley this week. 

Approximately 6,300 students — a record number — moved to the Allendale and Pew Grand Rapids campuses August 22-25. Excitement, anticipation and nervousness was apparent as hundreds of alumni, current students, and faculty and staff volunteers helped the new students unload cars and carry luggage. 

Several welcome events and activities are planned, which included a special set of helping hands August 23. President Thomas J. Haas and his wife, Marcia, continued their annual tradition of welcoming new students and families to Grand Valley by handing out ice cream. The pair was joined by new Dean of Students Eileen Sullivan.

"The energy and enthusiasm on campus this week is palpable, and it's a reminder of why I love doing the work I get to do at an institution that is so committed to students and their success," Sullivan said. "As I spoke to both students and families this week, there was a sense of hope and anticipation for what's to come." 

The week concludes with Convocation on Friday, August 26, at 11:30 a.m. in the Fieldhouse. The new Holton-Hooker Learning and Living Center will be dedicated at 2 p.m. on the Allendale Campus. 

Fall semester classes begin August 29.