Caldwell University Welcomes Its Largest Freshmen Class Ever!

Caldwell, N.J., Aug. 23, 2013 –  Caldwell University kicks off its 2013-14 academic year and welcomes its largest freshmen class ever this weekend with a number of activities including convocation, move in day, a president’s reception, a student barbeque, and a day of community service.      

Freshmen students and their parents were pleasantly surprised to find that when they arrived at the residence halls they had plenty of help unloading their cars and trucks.  Droves of volunteers including student athletes, orientation leaders, and President Nancy Blattner were ready to help carry all the belongings up to the dorm rooms.   

Tracy Hogan of East Meadow, Long Island,  mother of freshman Katie Hogan, said “it was incredible” that they didn’t have “to lift one thing and that there were tons of kids to help”.    She had mixed emotions about leaving her first child at college, but she was ecstatic for Katie. “I can’t wait for her to start the rest of her life.”  

Sister Kathleen Tuite, vice president of student life, said it is a great start to the academic year and was really nice to see the excitement on the faces of the new students.  “We welcome them with open arms.”  She was very proud of the current students who volunteered,  many who are  student athletes and are tired from practice, but still show up  to do the heavy lifting. “That is what Caldwell University is all about,” she said.  

Mary O’Sullivan, graduate resident director, said it is a fun and exciting time. “Our resident assistants had a really good training experience this year.  They are committed to helping keep our students safe, happy, and healthy.” 

At the convocation ceremony, the Class of 2017 and new transfer students were inducted into Caldwell University academic life. They learned about the Catholic Dominican heritage, the mission and core values of Caldwell University of respect, integrity, community, and excellence. They received pendants with the Caldwell University seal and were invited to pledge to support the mission, vision, core values, and Catholic Dominican identity.