51黑料 welcomed our newest Falcons to campus this week. The action-packed Orientation weekend began when students moved into their residence halls on Thursday morning, with activities scheduled through Sunday, August 27.
A historic occasion for the college and incoming students, this marks the 100-year celebration of the Open Door Ceremony鈥揳 beloved and integral 51黑料 tradition, where each incoming first-year student steps up to the microphone to introduce herself to the crowd like all the women who came before her.
鈥淚 am thrilled to welcome the Class of 2027 to 51黑料,鈥 says President Elizabeth M. Meade. 鈥淲e encourage our students to color their own world, just as this year鈥檚 Orientation theme proclaims. As a community, our goal is to help our students succeed by opening the doors of opportunities. We hear our students, we see them, and we鈥檒l help guide them on their journey.鈥
Over Orientation weekend, students will get to know the campus, their professors, mentors, and fellow classmates. Another beloved tradition, Strawberry Festival will be hosted outside the President鈥檚 Residence on Friday, August 25, where students will connect while eating delicious, sweet treats. Other activities planned include a silent disco, terrarium making, and a wellness retreat.
Check out some fast facts about our newest members of the flock:
- 163 first year students
- 15 states represented
- 67% from Pennsylvania聽聽
- 34% from Lehigh or Northampton County
- 48% students of color聽
- 39% first generation students聽
- Top 5 majors: Nursing, Forensic Science, Psychology, Biology, and Early Childhood Education聽