From Oct. 28 to Nov. 2, Grand Valley State University’s Campus Activities Board (CAB) hosted a packed week of Homecoming festivities, as students celebrated Laker pride and GVSU traditions.
Students, alumni and fans came together for themed dress up days. GVSU Alumni relations also organized an Alumni Awards Celebration, all building anticipation for the Homecoming football game, which took place on Nov. 2. This year’s events focused on building community and school spirit across generations, offering Lakers opportunities to connect, reflect on GVSU’s legacy and showcase University pride.
Spirit Week brought a fresh theme to each day, from Decades Day on Monday, which encouraged Lakers to dress from their favorite decade, to Twin Day on Tuesday. Wednesday’s Nautical Day saw students and staff sporting their best maritime looks, while Thursday welcomed Halloween with Laker-inspired costumes.
On Nov. 1, the annual Alumni Awards event honored five Lakers, who were recognized in different categories of awards. The celebration honored nominees that have gone above and beyond in their time after graduation. Awards included distinguished alumni, young alumni and accolades associated with alumni service.
A hands-on activity that took place during Homecoming week was Pom Pom Making, which was organized by CAB’s Olyvia Kovicak. Attendees crafted blue and white tissue paper pom poms. The pom poms symbolized school colors and brought added spirit to the festivities.
“My favorite part of Homecoming week has been all of the amazing events that everyone on CAB has been planning,” Kovicak said. “Pom Pom Making (was) fun for everyone, building community spirit.”
Another highlight was the Lip Sync Battle, a competition where student organizations danced and lip-synced to classic, hit songs. The theme for this year’s event was “Icons.”
“The biggest event we had this week was lip sync, which was planned with lots of volunteer help,” said Koviack. “Grand Valley is a good community where everyone can build upon each other. CAB is a great resource for putting Homecoming together, and the football game will be great for anyone going.”
CAB also facilitated organizing the Homecoming Royalty Court.
“Being part of the Homecoming Royalty Court is an honor that allows me to represent the Laker community and proudly showcase my Laker pride,” said Nancy Hoogwerf, a Homecoming Court candidate. “Laker Nation is filled with passionate leaders and dedicated students. I’m proud to represent them on the Student Senate, and as a member of the Court.”
GVSU’s football team faced off against the Wayne State University Warriors to end off the eventful week. At the game, 20 GVSU seniors were honored in a pre-game ceremony. Fans were also invited to join the Homecoming Tailgate beforehand, which featured food, games and family-friendly fun.
