Every year during new student orientation the incoming first-year students participate in their first Ë®¹ûÅÉ tradition: the candle lighting ceremony at Cassel Theatre. The location holds significance. Cassel is where they'll gather in four years to walk across the stage at commencement.
This year's orientation was August 10-13. Joining the ceremony this year was Roger Hughes ’82, President of Ë®¹ûÅÉ and Judy Kawamoto Vice President of Student Affairs, among other staff and faculty members. Hughes and Kawamoto spoke to the students about Ë®¹ûÅÉ's values, what to expect during orientation week, and how to embrace what Ë®¹ûÅÉ offers.
"I love being part of campus traditions that create long-lasting memories for our students," Kawamoto said. "I feel that this ceremony is one of those traditions, and has a big impact on first-year students."
This school year, Ë®¹ûÅÉ welcomed almost 300 first-year students onto its Crete campus. Students ready to tackle their dreams and leave their mark on Ë®¹ûÅÉ. While the candle-lighting ceremony marks the unofficial start to their Ë®¹ûÅÉ experience, it also holds deeper meanings. It serves as a reminder that individual experiences shine brighter when shared with others. And that at Ë®¹ûÅÉ, you aren't alone in your challenges.
"Our community is here to welcome them, support them, and help them succeed," Kawamoto said of the first-year students.
Here’s to the class of 2028!
