The following comes from Lebanon Valley College
Evan Neiswender of Mullica Hill, N.J., was one of a record-breaking 518 new students arriving at Lebanon Valley College this fall, exceeding last year’s incoming student group, which was then the largest in the college’s history. The fall 2018 class includes an all-time high 473 first-year students and 45 transfers.
Neiswender, a graduate of Clearview Regional High School, is planning to pursue a degree in Actuarial Science.
“Everyone who helped recruit these talented students, including many of our proud alumni, looks forward to the wonderful contributions these new Dutchmen will make to our campus community,” said Ed Wright, vice president of enrollment management. “It will be exciting to watch them grow and succeed at the valley.”
New and returning students have explored the newly-opened Jeanne and Edward H. Arnold Health Professions Pavilion, a $20-million state-of-the-art facility that is home to the physical therapy, athletic training, and exercise science programs and is open as a study and gathering space for all students.
Students will also benefit from the Edward and Lynn Breen Center for Graduate Success, a next-generation model for career development that connects networking, internships, skill-building, and personal advising. The Breen Center will build upon LVC’s existing network.
The college’s move-in day included the traditional Water Ceremony where students brought water from home to combine in the Peace Garden pond, signifying the unity of the class. After Opening Convocation on Aug. 23, faculty and staff formed a welcome line to cheer the students on.
The first week of classes featured the Week of Welcome with events including food trucks, class socials and other activities designed to introduce new students to the campus community and the opportunities that await them, including internships, leadership roles, student organizations and athletics teams.
Casey Burke, of the 2019 graduating class and president of Student Government, talked to students about the importance of putting themselves out there and doing things outside their comfort zone.
“This is your chance to make your life here exactly what you want it to be,” she said. “With a positive outlook, you will have a positive experience.”
