Van Andel Arena was lacking the usual hockey fans and concert fanatics on Saturday and instead was filled with friends and family of the 2014 class of Grand Valley State University alumni.

With over 1,100 graduates taking part in the ceremony, GVSU President Thomas Haas opened the ceremony congratulating the graduates and giving them words of advice as they move on to the next step in their lives.

“We are so proud that we are now welcoming you again as Lakers for a Lifetime from Grand Valley State University,” Haas said. “We know how hard you have worked to wear the cap and gown you put on today to be able to walk across the stage to collect your diploma.”

Following the opening words, Haas went on to stress the importance of a liberal education, utilizing words from Abraham Lincoln. Additionally, a video presentation showcased the successes and achievements of the graduating class and emphasized the community engagement and support of GVSU.

The keynote speaker was Laurie Beard, creator of Founders Bank and Trust, who delivered her speech entitled, “When I’m 64.”

As a graduate of GVSU herself, Beard discussed her experiences before and after her time at GVSU, emphasizing the elements of her life that contributed to her entrepreneurship goals and ambitions. During her career, Beard has been recognized as one of the “50 most influential women in West Michigan.”

During her time as president of Founders Bank and Trust, the business has seen a 400 percent growth and has not had an unprofitable quarter. Looking at the elements leading up to her success, Beard looked to present the graduates with a look into her path for entrepreneur-related achievement.

“I am positive that my MBA classes gave me the knowledge, credentials and confidence to take the risk to lead a successful career and take the plunge to start a new company,” Beard said. “I have never looked back through it all. I try to remember to give back to Grand Valley too, which has clearly given me so much.”

Following the presentation of Beard’s honorary degree, an honorary degree was also given to James Kofi Annan for his work with GVSU faculty members and students regarding human advocacy and protection.

“This honor is energizing me to do more than I have ever done before,” Annan said.

For the first time, GVSU alumni association president Michael Tappy presented the “Young Alumni Award” to 2008 graduate, Ryan Slusarzyk. Slusarzyk has been promoted through his work at Amway to global project manager using his degree in marketing and sales management from GVSU.

Degrees were then presented to graduates.

“When we put on these academic regalia, almost every part of our costume has some kind of symbolic meaning to higher education,” Davis said when concluding the ceremony. “For our purposes right this moment, the tassel is the most important symbol.”

As the Lakers moved their tassels from the right side of their mortarboards to the left, the GVSU community gained over 1,000 new Lakers for a Lifetime.