Members of the freshman class marched through the university gates with NDSU President Dean L. Bresciani, Student Body President Eric McDaniel and other student and university leaders Aug 24. They then gathered outside Putnam Hall, NDSU's first library, during the Presidents' Welcome. The celebration marked the beginning of fall classes.
Bresciani told the throng of students that they are joining the 84th ranked institution in the country and the top-ranked university in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and Idaho.
He said NDSU has become the school of choice for not only North Dakota students, but also out-of-state high school graduates. "You'll have an experience that will be the envy of your friends who went elsewhere," Bresciani said.
Bresciani also introduced incoming freshman Jamie Behymer, who represented her classmates. The public relations and advertising major is the daughter of Chris and Tracy Behymer of Scottsdale, Arizona.
"Over the course of the next four years, our class has the opportunity to change the campus and the community. I challenge you to be an impeccable student of NDSU, " she said. "Get out and get involved. Make this the best experience of your life."
Provost Beth Ingram said the students are joining thousands of others who began their academic journey at NDSU.
"You are welcomed by the faculty, who ask that you challenge yourself academically and stretch your horizons, and by the staff who ask that you make wise choices and engage with your fellow students," Ingram said. "You represent our aspirations."
During the event, incoming students each received a tassel for a mortarboard.
Ingram said NDSU faculty promise to challenge and support the students, and she urged the students to strive for academic achievement. "I ask that you place this tassel in your room or on your desk as a constant reminder of our mutual promise," she said. "In four years, I expect each of you to wear this tassel as you walk across the stage as a graduate of NDSU."
At the end of the event, students sang along as the Gold Star Marching Band played "The Yellow and the Green."
Fall classes began Aug. 24 at 4 p.m.
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