What's new on campus: 7 things Lakers can look for this fall

With move-in starting on August 20, Grand Valley will soon be bustling with energy and life after a quiet summer. The start of a new academic year on campus means more than just an incoming class of first-year students — it means changes around the university to make this the best year yet. 

From the Valley Campus to the City Campus, here are a few things that Lakers can look out for this year.

Replacing the Convocation ceremony of previous years is Laker Kickoff, a welcome celebration for incoming students. Laker Kickoff will include remarks from President Philomena V. Mantella, appearances from the Laker Marching Band, GV Cheer Team and Laker Dance Team, a traditional first-year student class photo at Lubbers Stadium, food trucks and fireworks. More information, as well as new student resources and tips for navigating campus, can be found on the Laker Kickoff website .

Campus dining updates

Notice something different about us? Grand Valley has undergone a rebrand, and as you make your way around campus, you’ll see it everywhere: The circle GV decals on the windows of Kirkhof Center, the signs identifying the Allendale Campus as the Valley Campus and the downtown campuses collectively as the City Campus and more.

Getting settled in your living center and realizing you forgot some important items at home? Have a one-time need for a sewing machine or just looking for fun ways to pass the time with your friends? Check out GVSU’s Library of Things , which contains a multitude of different items that students can check out, the same way they’d check out a library book. Whether it’s a set of crutches for an unexpected injury or outdoor games to pass the time outside, all items in the Library of Things are meant to ‘fill the gaps’ of what students might not have access to. Tech accessories and learning support items are also available for checkout.

Make your way through the heart of the City or Valley campus at the right time and you might just hear Grand Valley’s new carillonneur, Jon Lehrer, playing the iconic bells of Grand Valley’s two Carillon Towers. Lehrer was named GVSU’s carillonneur this June , following the 30th anniversary celebration of the Cook Carillon Tower. Lehrer previously had a robust career as a data scientist and cancer researcher and, with 20 years of award-winning carillon performance experience, says that he is “looking forward to adding some beauty and fun to our daily 'commutes,' teaching and learning from students, looking for the unique collaborative opportunities on this campus and creating events that people love.”

Located just south of campus on 42nd Street, the Campus Health Center is reopening this fall . For the first time, the center will be fully operated by Grand Valley State University. The center provides urgent and primary care services to the campus community and the public.

Whether you’re a new or a returning Laker looking to get plugged in, there’s no better time than the start of a new year to find your community. Here are a few can’t-miss events to kick off the school year:

• Meijer Back-to-College event: Take the Laker Line from the Valley Campus to the Standale Meijer store from 8-11 p.m. on August 21 for fun activities, appearances by the GVSU Spirit Groups, giveaways and a chance to stock up on dorm room essentials.
• Commuter & Transfer student welcome: All commuter and transfer students are invited to stop by the Upper Deck of Lubbers Stadium before heading into the stadium for Laker Kickoff at 5 p.m. on August 22. The Dean of Students Office will have T-shirts, ice cream and games and will also answer your questions about Grand Valley.
• CAB movie on the field: At 8 p.m. on August 23, grab your friends or come and make some new ones with GVSU’s Campus Activities Board as they show “How to Train Your Dragon” on the big screen in Lubbers Stadium. Only water is allowed on the field, so enjoy food and drinks in the stands before making your way down to the field for the movie. 
• Campus Life Night: At 6 p.m. on August 24, head to Lot H1 to explore and find your community within the hundreds of student organizations, campus departments, and local businesses/non-profits that will be in attendance.