Allegheny College Welcomes the Class of 2027
Allegheny College welcomed students in the Class of 2027 at today’s academic convocation and matriculation ceremony on the Bicentennial Plaza near historic Bentley Hall.
Allegheny President Ron Cole, Ph.D., addressed the new first-year and transfer students, who represent 241 high schools, 18 universities, 29 states, and 24 countries.
“You are going on a life-changing journey as Allegheny is truly a college that changes lives….You are not just joining a college, but you are now part of a community. And in this community you will find your people who make you laugh and think, you will find teachers and mentors who challenge and inspire you. You will find your place at Allegheny,” Cole told students. “…I charge you with the following: To employ the full measure of your promise and potential in the pursuit of excellence and the service of others; To live lives of courage and conviction — always seeking what is just and what is true; To appreciate beauty — even when others may not; To find joy and laughter in the challenge of your day and to never forget what it means to be a friend.”
Approximately 51 percent of students in the Class of 2027 hail from Pennsylvania. Students from Ohio and New York account for 10 percent and 9 percent of the Class of 2027, respectively. Thirty percent of students in the new class are first-generation college students, and 27 percent of students in the Class of 2027 identify as students of color.
The College also welcomed 64 students as part of the Commitment to Access Program. This program provides full tuition in grants and scholarships for students in Pennsylvania whose family income is under $50,000.
First-year Class Dean Erin O’Day-Frye also addressed students during the ceremony. She encouraged students to explore new interests, ask for help, and build community by making new friends.
“Recognize that each individual — especially yourself — brings a unique perspective and set of experiences that enriches the whole of the Allegheny community,” shared O’Day-Frye. “We learn from each other and every member of this community is committed to their education and to yours. It is not just students who learn from faculty and staff, but the reverse as well. We love the act of learning and we hope you will join us in that love.”
The event also included remarks by Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Sustainability Rich Bowden, Ph.D., Allegheny Student Government (ASG) President Nicole Reico Bremer, and Student Honor Committee Chair Rachael Lutz.
Bowden challenged students to be kind above all else. He shared,
“Being kind is a decision and a way of life that will make your four years here enjoyable, enriching, and fulfilling. Being kind does NOT mean backing away from your convictions, withdrawing from difficult discussions, or disengaging from challenging efforts.”
Bremer, the ASG president, urged new students to make the most of their time at Allegheny.
“Some of the most unexpected events or people on campus may become your most cherished memories and friendships. Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Rather embrace it,” said Bremer. “Believe in yourself and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.”
A traditional part of the matriculation ceremony is the students’ pledge to adhere to the Allegheny Honor Code, which was initiated and developed by students nearly six decades ago. It is still voted upon by the student body every three years to ensure that each class has an opportunity to pledge their commitment to the Honor Code. “By taking this oath, you have preserved a 59-year bond between faculty and students, and we are more than thrilled to welcome you into it,” said Lutz, the Student Honor Committee chair.
The academic convocation and matriculation ceremony concluded with what is the recent tradition of the event. After the singing of the College’s Alma Mater, the Class of 2027 processed from Bicentennial Plaza to Bentley Hall’s south entrance, through the building, and onto Brooks Walk. The walk was lined on both sides by Allegheny faculty in their academic regalia, applauding the incoming class with cheers. At their Commencement ceremony in four years, the class will take the reverse path, walking together on Brooks Walk through a cheering faculty, through Bentley’s north entrance, and onto the plaza for their graduation.
The academic convocation and matriculation ceremony is among the activities during Gator Week of Welcome, a week-long event that combines academic and social programming to welcome new and returning students to campus. The Gator Week of Welcome activities lead up to the start of fall semester classes on Tuesday, Aug. 29.