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Caldwell, N.J., Aug. 28, 2017 – Caldwell University greeted its new students at Welcome Weekend Aug. 26-28.

At freshman convocation, President Nancy Blattner formally greeted the Class of 2021. She encouraged the students to learn about the rich history and heritage of Caldwell, a Catholic Dominican University committed to the four foundational pillars of prayer, study, community and mission or service. “Whether you are a resident or commuter student, you are now part of the larger Caldwell University community and a member of several smaller communities on campus.”

Blattner also asked the students in attendance who were named to the dean’s list in 2016-17 to stand and be recognized. “I hope the recognition of these returning students will serve as an inspiration to our incoming freshmen as they begin their studies this week at the university level.”

The university welcomed the largest number of international students in its history with 80 students coming from many nations.

Other Welcome Weekend activities included a Mass, a barbecue hosted at Blattner’s home, a Music Under the Stars night, a Dominican Missions presentation, which featured visits to the Motherhouse and St. Catherine’s Health Care Facility to learn about the roots of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, and a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure.

Among the new students are 40 players for the first-ever Caldwell University sprint football team. The university’s first sprint football game will take place Saturday, Sept. 16, when the Cougars face the Collegiate Sprint Football League defending champions, the University of Pennsylvania Quakers. Game time is 1 p.m. at James Caldwell High School.

The Office of Campus Ministry offered FIRST, a two-day faith immersion program held Aug. 24 and 25. “Freshman Immersion into Reflection, Service, and Tradition” provided interested freshmen with an introduction to aspects of faith reflection, service and the Catholic Dominican tradition of Caldwell, explained Director of Campus Ministry Colleen O’Brien.