Graduates revel in spending one more night together on Mac Field
May 21, 2025 — The glow coming from Mac Field Saturday night came from Grinnell’s newest graduates, who were basking in all they had accomplished in four years at the College.
A Night Under the Prairie Sky debuted as a new senior experience, part of a weekend full of events for Grinnell’s graduates that culminated in the Commencement ceremony Monday morning.
Glow sticks and light-up glasses enhanced the radiance of the festive evening, which included a speech from Loyal Terry ’23, a dance party, and a champagne toast to celebrate the student’s dedication and toast to the future that awaits them.
Loyal Terry ’23, former Student Government Association president, was the alumni speaker at the Night Under the Prairie Sky.
“Tonight is an evening about more than celebration,” Terry said. “It’s about taking time to connect, reflect, and recognize the life we shared with one another. Tonight is about your tears of joy, the frustration you had passing that class, the uncertainty you felt going to sleep not knowing what the next day will bring. Above all, it’s about being triumphant and being proud of this next stage in your life.”
In September, the class of 2028 took part in the initial First-Year Illumination Ceremony. In addition, Arctic Lights has become a treasured winter tradition. Both of those events also take place on Mac Field next to Gates-Rawson Tower and have an illuminating theme.
“As you prepare to head out into the world, we ask that you carry that light with you,” Terry said on Saturday. “Think about the alumni network as your Grinnell constellation – a present community of support, connection, and shared purpose. Welcome to the alumni community!”
—by Jeremy Shapiro