What Is Graceland University Like? Campus Life Explained for Future Students

If you’re wondering what Graceland University is like, the short answer is this: it’s a welcoming, close-knit campus where students build friendships, participate in traditions, and grow through academics, activities, and community life. Located in Lamoni, Iowa, Graceland offers a small residential campus experience with unique House traditions, engaging student events, and opportunities for both residential and commuter students to get involved.

For most students, the Graceland experience is about much more than classes. It’s about living, learning, and building connections in a community designed to help students thrive.

Where Is Graceland University? What Is the Campus Like?

Graceland University’s main campus is located in Lamoni, Iowa, a small college town just off Interstate 35 about an hour south of Des Moines. The campus sits on beautiful rolling hills and is compact enough that students can easily walk between residence halls, classrooms, dining spaces, and athletic facilities.

Because of its size, the campus has a strong sense of community. Students often know professors on a first-name basis, and campus events bring the community together throughout the year. Lamoni offers a peaceful environment that keeps students connected while still being within driving distance of larger cities like Des Moines and Kansas City.

What Is Campus Housing Like at Graceland?

Living on campus is a central part of Graceland University campus life. The university offers several residence halls along with apartment-style housing options, all designed to help students build community and feel at home.

Learn more about housing options here.

The House System and Residence Halls

One of the most unique aspects of Graceland University dorms is the House system. Each floor of a residence hall is organized into a “House,” complete with its own name, colors, and traditions. These Houses compete in friendly challenges, host social events, and create strong bonds among residents.

Residence halls on campus include Graybill Hall, Gunsolley Hall, Walker Hall, and Tess Morgan Hall — all feature comfortable living spaces and a supportive community environment. Some halls are exclusive to one gender, while others have separate floors.

Rooms, Amenities, and Move-In Basics

Residence hall rooms typically include standard furniture such as beds, desks, and dressers. Many students personalize their rooms with décor or rent lofting kits to create more living space.

Housing assignments are communicated before the semester begins, and students can often request roommates. Important details (such as housing assignments, move-in information, and roommate communication) are available through the student admissions portal.

Life as an Upperclass Student

Upperclass students may have the opportunity to live in Small and Thomas Apartments, which offer apartment-style living while remaining part of the campus community. These apartments give students more independence while still keeping them close to classes, activities, and friends.

Housing selection for upperclass students typically occurs through a room draw process, where students choose housing based on seniority and availability.

Is Graceland a Good Option for Commuter and Local Students?

While many students live on campus, Graceland also welcomes commuter and local students. Certain students, such as those living with parents within 40 miles of campus, married students, or those with dependents, may qualify to live off campus.

Commuter students remain active members of the campus community. Many spend time on campus between classes using study spaces, dining areas, and student lounges before heading to clubs, meetings, or athletic events.

A typical commuter day might include attending classes, grabbing lunch in the dining hall, studying with friends, joining a club meeting or intramural game, and then heading home in the evening.

What Are the Dining Options on Campus?

Dining is an important part of Graceland University student life, providing spaces for students to gather, relax, and connect between classes.

Explore dining options here.

The Commons – Traditional Dining Hall Experience

The Floyd M. McDowell Commons (known affectionately as ‘Freddy’s’) serves as the main dining hall on campus. Students enjoy a variety of meal options, including hot entrées, fresh salads, and grill items. Many students use the Commons as a daily meeting place to catch up with friends, study between classes, or relax after a busy day.

The Swarm – Quick Dining in Newcom Student Union

For students looking for something quick, The Swarm in the Newcom Student Union offers burgers, grill items, and fresh, made-to-order sandwiches from the Sub Hub. It’s a convenient option for meals between classes or before campus events.

Meal Plans and Dining Dollars

Graceland offers several meal plan options, including 21-meal, 14-meal, 10-meal, and 5-meal plans. Students can also use Dining Dollars and GBUCK$, which allow them to purchase food both on campus and at select Lamoni businesses.

What Events and Activities Can Students Join?

There are many things to do on campus at Graceland University, from athletic events to performing arts and student clubs.

Students often participate in:

• House competitions and campus traditions
• NAIA athletics and game-day events
• Intramural sports and recreational activities
• Performing arts performances and rehearsals
• Student organizations and leadership opportunities

Students can explore upcoming activities through the campus events calendar here.

How Does Graceland Support Safety and Well-Being?

Campus safety is a priority at Graceland. The university maintains dedicated safety services that support students on all Graceland property.

Learn more about campus safety resources here.

One important tool is GU Alert, an emergency notification system that sends text and email alerts in urgent situations. Students are encouraged to register their contact information so they can receive notifications when needed.

Beyond safety systems, Graceland emphasizes a culture of care, inclusion, and support. Residence Life staff, campus ministries, advisors, and faculty all work together to help students feel safe and supported. The university is currently expanding our relationship with Infinity Health to provide medical, dental, pharmacy, and mental health services at the nearby Lamoni clinic (within walking distance of campus) and the clinic in Leon .

How Can You Get Involved and Make Graceland Feel Like Home?

Whether students live in the residence halls or commute from nearby communities, getting involved is one of the best ways to experience Graceland University campus life.

Students are encouraged to join House activities, attend campus events, explore clubs and intramural sports, and participate in local Lamoni community events. The small-campus environment makes it easier to meet people, take on leadership roles, and try new experiences.

The best way to understand what student life at Graceland University is really like is to visit campus, attend an event, or connect with current students. Many visitors quickly discover that Graceland is more than just a place to study—it’s a community where students grow academically, socially, and personally.