More than 230 first-year and transfer students gathered at SJC Brooklyn on Thursday for the College’s 2017 Orientation. “Reach Beyond the Stars” was the day’s, as The Hill Center — accented with solar system cut-outs and a life-size cardboard astronaut — hosted the arrival of the new class.
Orientation kicked off with SJC President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D., encouraging students to make a global impact.
“You have a lot offer the world, and you have a lot to offer St. Joseph’s,” Dr. Boomgaarden said. “I’m thrilled to be here for a couple of reasons. One of them is that St. Joseph’s is a real gem of a college. It has wonderful programs. It has a deep commitment to you, the student, and to educating the whole student — not just the mind, but the heart and the soul.”
A galaxy of student orientation leaders were on-hand to assist the new arrivals, as well as SJC Brooklyn’s top administrators. Interim Executive Dean Michael Hanophy, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Life Sherrie Van Arnam and Executive Director of Student Life Jaime Vacca, offered words of encouragement and inspiration, along with SGA President Juanita Arias ’18 and Chris Malcaus ’18.
“You’re going to learn a lot today,” Dr. Hanophy said. “About college life in general. About St. Joseph’s College in particular. About all kinds of extracurricular activities, clubs, sports. But the adventure of a college education is really every bit as exciting and fun as anything you do here.”
After hearing from SJC leaders, students were treated to a presentation by keynote speaker Bert Gervais, acknowledged by former President Barack Obama for his work as a young leader in America.
The new transfer and first-year students were then given a tour of the SJC Brooklyn campus and facilities, while getting informed of the many services and opportunities available at the college, including essential campus resources, peer advisement, career counseling and much more.
The day concluded with a Space Jam-themed party, where raffles, giveaways and a live DJ capped off the cosmic event.
“You’re moving into a new world,” Dr. Boomgaarden said. “It’s going to be challenging, and you want to pay special attention to your time. A great deal of life is showing up, and being there. Just like you came today.”
Scenes from SJC Brooklyn's 2017 first year and transfer orientation. Welcome, new students, to #SJCNY!
Posted by St. Joseph's College NY on Thursday, August 24, 2017
