Thirty-six new students were welcomed to campus Sunday evening in a Convocation ceremony held for transfer students and others who enrolled at Elon University for the 2011 spring semester.
The Whitley Auditorium event on Jan. 30, 2011, included remarks from Provost Steven House, and Elon vice presidents Smith Jackson and Susan Klopman. Current student Stacey Markham welcomed the new arrivals following invocation.
“What you don’t realize you’ve chosen is a university that has a spirit unlike any other,” Klopman said to students. “I would tell you it is not only what is distinctive about Elon; it truly makes Elon unique. You are joining a community that is people-centered, positive and success-oriented, and one that will empower you to learn. Elon thrives on innovation and embraces change. Subtly these qualities will become part of you.
“In a very short time you will realize that you are stretching academically and that your world is much bigger than you ever imagined,” she added. “You will be comfortable with change and encountering new frontiers. After all, that’s what learning is all about.”
Students transferring to Elon for the spring come from schools that include Wake Forest University, the University of Connecticut and West Virginia University, among others.
On Monday morning, Elon University President Leo M. Lambert welcomed parents and students to Elon while highlighting the opportunities the university provides. He related the experience to a grand buffet and encouraged students to avoid making a bologna sandwich.
Lambert said the students will see him around campus frequently at College Coffee, athletic events, and performances as he values being a visible campus leader.