New Beginnings

Aug 17, 2022

Students participating in the International Pre-Orientation Program sitting in an auditorium

Every August a flurry of activity and excitement begins as Grinnell College prepares for a new academic year and incoming class. The 2022-23 academic year is no exception with a remarkable class of first-year students joining the tight-knit community. With over 11,000 applicants for the class of 2026, 1,073 students were admitted making this the most selective year in the College’s history.

Student holding sign that says "hello" in Japanese

The first to arrive for the start of a new year will be first-year students participating in the Grinnell Science Project, International Student Pre-Orientation, and the Peer Connection Pre-Orientation programs. Filled with days of meeting classmates, introductory programming, and popsicle breaks, the lead into New Student Orientation (NSO) is always a time of excitement and relationship building among participants.

The culmination of pre-orientation programs and NSO will be an all-campus Welcome Festival when students from all class years will come together to kick off the new year with a picnic and activities.

“This year's PCPOP brought together 39 first year students with 21 returning peer mentors and student assistants in intentional relationship building and community development,” said Vrinda Varia, Assistant Chief Diversity Officer for Intercultural Student Life. “With compassionate care, gentle vulnerability, and genuine good humor, students spent a week centering in self as first years began to make Grinnell their home away from home.”

Community Support

With over 1,700 students expected from 50 U.S. states and territories and 56 different countries, the excitement is palpable among the campus and community. The start of the fall semester brings with it an exciting impact on the local economy. According to the 2020 Grinnell Economic Impact Report, student spending in the community equated to $4.2 million, bringing a surge to local businesses and organizations.

“With warmest welcome to the class of 2026 and all those returning to Grinnell after a summer away,” says Monica Chavez-Silva, VP of community engagement and strategic planning. “Please know how much the broader community is looking forward to the excitement and vitality you bring to the town. I encourage you to explore the restaurants, movie theater, and stores downtown. Enjoy the Farmer’s Market, see how the seasons change at our local parks and lakes, and say hello to a new friend or neighbor. Grinnellians are so glad you’re here. Welcome!”

But an economic impact isn’t the only thing that students are bringing. The class of 2026 is a particularly community-oriented one with 65% having participated in community service activities and 55% held jobs, completed internships, or were involved in other career activities during high school.

Fresh Faces at the Head of the Class

Beronda Montgomery, dean of the College — Dr. Beronda Montgomery

Another set of new faces will be joining the campus community as well. With New Faculty Orientation wrapping up, the College is pleased to welcome over 40 new term and tenure-track faculty members. Among them includes the new Dean of the College and VP for Academic Affairs, Beronda Montgomery.

Join the College in welcoming new and returning faces to campus and the community, with classes beginning on Thursday, August 25.