An illuminating beginning at Grinnell
September 03, 2025 — Mac Field was illuminated the evening of Aug. 22 to signal the arrival of Grinnell College’s newest scholars.
More than 400 new students from the class of 2029 took part in the College’s second annual Illumination Ceremony. The event capped a busy first day of activities during New Student Orientation (NSO). Many students moved into their residence halls that morning and took part in a welcome event and class photo in the afternoon.
The Illumination Ceremony was established last year to introduce new students to Grinnell’s alumni network and to have them share a memorable first-year experience. It also helps first-years develop institutional pride that contributes to a sense of belonging.
The new students entered Mac Field through the entrance between Gates-Rawson Hall and then picked up light devices while a DJ played music. Alumni Council member Vivek Venugopal ’01 shared the symbolism behind the ceremony, along with talking about his experience as a student and his role as an alum.
Next, Jasiah Villalta ’26 and Kelly Olson ’27 shared with the class of 2029 their personal experience as current students. Following inspirational remarks from President Anne F. Harris, students turned on their light devices at the same time in a showing of unity. A dance party under the stars followed the ceremony.
—by Jeremy Shapiro