Shining a light on the class of 2028
September 03, 2024 — More than 400 new students took part in Grinnell College’s first Illumination Ceremony on Aug. 27 just after the sun set on Mac Field.
A new addition to the New Student Orientation lineup, the ceremony included speeches, a singing performance by student ensemble Con Brio, and a moment where the class of 2028 and transfer students simultaneously turned on hundreds of candle lights.
The ceremony was established to introduce new students to Grinnell’s alumni network and to have them share a memorable first-year experience. It also developed institutional pride that contributed to a sense of belonging.
Students dance in front of Gates-Rawson Tower at the conclusion of the Illumination Ceremony on Aug. 27.
“You are now part of this alumni community,” Vivek Venugopal ’01 told the students. “For the next four years, you will have the opportunity to find the things that lights you up. You’re here because of a light you all have. Your responsibility is to find more things that bring you joy. Experience as many things as possible.”
Students also listened to inspiring remarks from President Anne F. Harris, Jasiah Rojas ’26 and Valeriya Woodard ’25.
“Each of you has a light, whether you are into performing in a literal spotlight or whether you are an athlete, and the light refers to being quick on your feet,” Woodard said. “Maybe you’re into physics, and the light is 299,792,458 meters per second. The point is light will be different for each of you. When you do discover your light, let it shine so bright.”
— by Jeremy Shapiro