The start of the school year at Davenport University means more than just new classes and textbooks — it’s also time for Welcome Week, a jam-packed celebration that helps students jump right into college life, make new friends and have a blast doing it.

This year, the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus was alive with energy thanks to two big events hosted by Student Life: Panther Prowl and Pantherpalooza. Whether students are brand new to campus or coming back for more, these events delivered the perfect mix of fun, connection and school spirit.

First-year students got the ultimate welcome with Panther Prowl, a five-day adventure designed to help them feel right at home from day one. It’s more than an orientation — it’s like a mini-summer camp before college officially begins.

There are outdoor games, bonfires, tubing trips, scavenger hunts, yoga sessions, a carnival, the legendary Prowl Olympics and even a visit to Craig’s Cruisers. It’s the perfect way to bond, break the ice and start building your DU crew.

Cole Fournier, a student and one of the Panther Prowl coordinators, shared that Panther Prowl is a great opportunity for new students. “I participated my freshman year, and it gave me the tools I needed to succeed throughout my college journey,” he said. “During Panther Prowl, I met my roommates and some of my best friends. Panther Prowl has given me so much, and I’m truly grateful I had the chance to experience it.”

Throughout the week, students are placed in “Packs” led by upperclass students known as Pack Leaders and Pack Assistants. These mentors help guide new Panthers through the week with team-building games, campus quests and tons of advice about college life.

Natalie Wagner, director of Student Life, said it best: “Prowl is an exciting time of year as we welcome new students to the DU community,” she said. “We engage with both residential and commuter students to help them make meaningful connections and discover opportunities to become involved. Students who participate in Panther Prowl are more likely to return the following year, so this is a great way to get them connected as they begin their time at Davenport.”

After the energy of Panther Prowl, the fun kept going with Pantherpalooza, an epic Friday event that brings the whole campus together. Think of it as a giant welcome party meets student org fair meets campus life expo — with a lot of cool freebies and fun on top.

Held every Fall semester’s first Friday, Pantherpalooza helps students explore everything DU has to offer: clubs, organizations, campus resources, volunteer opportunities — and even how to register to vote or donate blood.  

Of course, there are also plenty of games, giveaways, and good vibes to go around. It’s the perfect chance to get involved and feel connected — no matter if students are a freshman or a Panther veteran.

Welcome Week isn’t just about settling in — it’s about kicking off the college experience with excitement, confidence, and community.