Slideshow

Photos by David Kadlubowski GCU News Bureau GCU celebrated homecoming Saturday with a wide array of activities, including an alumni golf tournament, Breakfast with Thunder, the GCU Hall of Fame inductions, the tailgate and derby kart races, and the crowning of the homecoming king and queen during the basketball game.      

Photos by David Kadlubowski GCU News Bureau The “grand reopening” of Brazell Field at GCU Ballpark on Friday night drew a record crowd of 4,562 despite less than ideal weather. The big gathering was treated to pregame festivities with the customary GCU hospitality and opening ceremonies that included Arizona Sen. Martha McSally singing “God Bless America.”   

Photos by Enrique Lucha and Katie Severns GCU News Bureau Grand Canyon University students played games, drank hot cocoa and sparkling cider, and toasted marshmallows for s’mores at the annual Winterfest on Thursday night.      

Photos by David Kadlubowski GCU News Bureau Grand Canyon University employees and their families were treated to free meals at campus eateries and a multitude of activities at their annual Christmas Party on Saturday.      

Photos by Slaven Gujic GCU News Bureau The Friday afternoon ceremony at Grand Canyon University winter commencement featured graduates of the College of Education, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, and College of Theology.    

Photos by Slaven Gujic GCU News Bureau The Friday morning ceremony of winter commencement at Grand Canyon University included graduates of the Colangelo College of Business, the College of Fine Arts and Production and the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions.      

Photos by Slaven Gujic GCU News Bureau Grand Canyon University’s Ethington Dance Ensemble performed 11 dances by 10 choreographers for its Winter Dance Concert, “Uncovered.” About 50 dancers brought the works to life on the Ethington Theatre stage Dec. 7-9.

Photos by Theresa Smith and Lana Sweeten-Shults GCU News Bureau Hungry and stressed students sipped hot chocolate and munched on granola bars along the Promenade on Wednesday. They were eager to take advantage of Fuel for Finals, courtesy of the Grand Canyon University Welcome Programs and parents from the GCU Parent Council. “I was very satisfied with my granola bar,” said Joshua Onwordi.  “And I took one when I went to class as well, so I have eaten two granola bars today. I am fueled for finals.” The sophomore from Chandler took his first final on Tuesday and a second one on Wednesday. Along with providing snacks, drinks and encouragement, the semiannual event featured a prayer request board, prompting students to publicize their prayers, including asking God for successful final exam experiences.  The two-day event ended on Thursday at 2 p.m.  

Handel’s “Messiah” preaches the word of God through music, said GCU Assistant Dean of Music Dr. Juan de Dios Hernandez, who conducted Tuesday night’s annual presentation of the masterwork. Hernandez added that performing the oratorio is a reflection of GCU’s mission as a Christian university. The concert, featuring the Canyon Choral Society and Canyon Symphony Orchestra, ushered in the holiday season and will be performed one more time in a singalong version Friday at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale.

Photos by Theresa Smith and Debbie Accomazzo GCU News Bureau Members of the GCU community helped hand out Thanksgiving meals Monday at the St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance Turkey Distribution event.