Jan. 11, 2019 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Basketball games, a pep rally and a celebration of the newly renovated Gerald R. Ford Fieldhouse will be part of Grand Rapids Community College's Homecoming next week.
This year’s theme is “Stepping Back in Time," and all events are free.
"Homecoming is a celebration of our GRCC legacy, especially the students of today and the past," GRCC President Bill Pink said. "We're welcoming back alumni, but also extending an invitation to our entire community. We're proud of the role the college plays in West Michigan, and a Homecoming is a fantastic way to bring together everyone who has a GRCC story."
Homecoming week starts with the rededication of the Gerald R. Ford Fieldhouse, opening again after $8 million in renovations that transforms the building into a state-of-the-art facility for learning, fitness and events. President Ford's eldest son, Mike Ford, with Judge Sara Smolenski, a student-athlete for then-Grand Rapids Junior College and a 2003 Distinguished Alumna, will participate in the ceremony.
The building also celebrates GRCC's athletic legacy with a mural showcasing student-athletes of today while honoring All-Americans, champions and all Raiders of the past.
GRCC's Homecoming events are open to everyone — students, employees, retirees, alumni and the public.
Jan. 14:
- Involvement Day — Learn about GRCC clubs and organizations from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Raider Grill, located inside the Student Community Center at 122 Lyon St. NE.
- Gerald R. Ford Fieldhouse rededication — Enjoy refreshments at 3 p.m. before the ceremony starts at 3:30 p.m. An open house and self-guided tours of the Ford Fieldhouse, 111 Lyon St. NE, following the ceremony.
Jan. 15:
- ‘Dive-In Movie’ — See “Finding Dory” from 6-8 p.m. in the fieldhouse natatorium.
Jan. 16:
- Throwback Vibes — Play “Name That Tune” and vintage arcade games and trade in a non-GRCC college T-shirt for a Homecoming T-shirt from 1-3 pm. in the Raider Grill.
Jan. 17:
- Raider Pep Rally — Cheer on the basketball teams while enjoying a DJ, food trucks, ice sculptures and more from 5-7 p.m. on the Dr. Juan R. Olivarez Student Plaza, located in front of the Main Building at 143 Bostwick Ave. NE.
Jan. 18:
- Tailgate — It starts at 5 p.m. at the Ford Fieldhouse and lasts until the food is gone and includes many family friendly activities.
- Basketball games — Cheer on the Raiders! Admission is free to watch the women’s team play at 5:30 p.m. and the men’s team at 7:30 p.m. in the Ford Fieldhouse.
Grand Rapids Community College has been offering educational opportunities in West Michigan for more than 100 years. Established in 1914, the college offers degree courses, certification and training programs, and workshops and personal enrichment classes. Offerings are held on GRCC’s downtown Grand Rapids campus, and at several locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties, as well as through distance learning.