Waynesburg University held its annual Matriculation Ceremony in Roberts Chapel Friday, Aug. 23, officially beginning the 2024-25 academic year and welcoming new students to campus.
"Practice perseverance. If you develop that central quality of not giving up, not getting discouraged, working through the hard times and enjoying the good times – almost nothing will be impossible for you."
The Class of 2028 represents 55 different majors and academic areas and is comprised of students from 20 different states, including Louisiana, Texas, South Carolina, Hawaii, Arizona, Florida and New York. With approximately $11 million in aid being processed for the incoming class, including over $6 million in institutional funds, Waynesburg University remains a very affordable option for high quality, Christian higher education in Pennsylvania and the nation.
During the ceremony, President Douglas G. Lee and University leadership offered words of wisdom and encouragement to the incoming class. President Lee encouraged incoming students to practice perseverance, citing examples of the University’s early leaders faithfully persevering amidst hardships.
“Practice perseverance,” President Lee said. “If you develop that central quality of not giving up, not getting discouraged, working through the hard times and enjoying the good times – almost nothing will be impossible for you.”
This matriculation ceremony, held during the University’s milestone 175th anniversary year, aptly celebrated 175 years of light.
This matriculation ceremony, held during the University’s milestone 175th anniversary year, aptly celebrated 175 years of light.
“We are thrilled to walk alongside you, teach you, and learn from you as you explore the many ways that you let your light shine here and in the world.”
During the ceremony, Interim Provost Mindy Walls shared Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
“We are thrilled to walk alongside you, teach you, and learn from you as you explore the many ways that you let your light shine here and in the world,” Provost Walls said.
Matriculation is part of an exciting four-day series of events known as Welcome Days, which are designed to help integrate new students into the Waynesburg University community through fun activities, informational meetings and introductions to faculty, staff and other students. New students also have the opportunity to learn about the resources and services available on campus.
“We are very excited to welcome the Class of 2028 to campus,” said Ashley Peichl, director of Admissions. “It is a rewarding moment for our admissions team to see the results of their recruitment efforts by officially welcoming their students to the Waynesburg University community.”
Freshmen moved into their residence halls Thursday, Aug. 22, and will continue to participate in Welcome Days programming throughout the weekend.
On Saturday, Aug. 24, they will take part in a variety of service projects throughout the county. Service sites include WWJD Christian Center, Corner Cupboard Foodbank, Eva K. Bowlby Library, Save-A-Horse Stable, Greene County United Way, Warrior Trail Association and more.
Upperclassmen move into residence halls Saturday, Aug. 24, and Sunday, Aug. 25, with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 26.
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, with an additional site for graduate and professional programs in Southpointe.
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