The annual Presidents’ Welcome officially kicked off NDSU’s new academic year Aug. 21. The pageantry included the NDSU Gold Star Marching Band and incoming freshman class spelling out “NDSU” on Churchill Field for a class photograph.
“Congratulations on what you are starting,” said NDSU President Dean L. Bresciani, noting NDSU is the top school of choice for North Dakota high school graduates. “You are about to become one of the most educated people in the United States, and you’re doing that at one of the best universities in the United States. There are 3,500 colleges and universities in this country, and you are at one of the top 100 in the nation. That’s the top 3 percent of all American higher education.”
Bresciani was joined at the podium by Provost Beth Ingram, student body president Mason Wenzel, student body vice president Katie Mastel and incoming freshman Dan Ukkelberg.
“You guys are at one of the greatest universities in the world,” Wenzel told the freshmen class. “You are the future innovators, the future thinkers, the future creators and you’ll come out with an incredible degree. Don’t be afraid to be daring and dynamic.”
Mastel urged the incoming students to be excited about the beginning of their collegiate careers, but to remain committed to their education. “Set your goals early and stay focused. Make sure you take all necessary steps to reach those goals both academically and professionally,” she said.
Ukkelberg, a third-generation NDSU student from Clitherall, Minnesota, represented his classmates. “I can almost guarantee that NDSU is the right fit for you, whether you’re going into anything from theater arts to agribusiness, the people here at NDSU will help you succeed to your highest potential,” said the new agriculture communication major. “Give it 100 percent and step out of your comfort zone. You’re the class of 2021 – let’s be proud.”
During the ceremony, students received graduation tassels, a symbol of the university’s and the student’s commitment to their successful academic career at NDSU.
“You’re welcomed by the faculty, who ask you to challenge yourself academically and stretch your horizons, and by the staff, who ask you make wise choices and engage with fellow students. You represent our aspirations to engage the brightest minds in the pursuit of learning and discovery,” said Ingram.
Other major upcoming Welcome Week events include:
• Find Your Voice in the Herd, Monday, Aug. 21, 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., Memorial Union Ballroom
• You Only Get What You Put In! (YOGWYPI), Tuesday, Aug. 22, 7 p.m., Festival Concert Hall
• Residence Hall Association block party, Thursday, Aug. 24, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the east side of Pavek Hall in the Bolley Loop
• Street dance, Friday, Aug. 25, 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Administrative Avenue near the Memorial Union.
• Campus Live: After Party, Friday, Aug. 25, 11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., Lower Level, Memorial Union
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