We had a wonderful start to the fall semester. Move-in weekend went smoothly for all our students and the weather was perfect for Welcome Week events like Massapalooza and Pioneer Chill. I hope by now everyone is settled into their residence halls and ready for a fun, enlightening and active semester.
It was great to see College of Health Professions and College of Nursing students, faculty and staff walk through the halls and use the space at the new Center for Healthcare Education. The impressive facility is up and running and serving the needs of our students.
Approximately 1,500 students, the largest incoming class in SHU history, gathered with faculty and administration for the annual New Student Convocation at the Pitt Center on Wednesday. At the ceremony, we welcomed the first-year students and told them a little bit about what they can expect over the next four years. Good luck – your journey as Pioneers has just begun.
There are many clubs and organizations to get involved in at SHU. Students can learn about all the opportunities available to them at the Just SHU It Fair today on the 63’s patio. There is something for everyone.
If you have seen the news over the past few days, you know Texas is dealing with much devastation due to Hurricane Harvey. If you would like to help with relief efforts, cash donations are being collected until September 6 in the Office of Campus Ministry.
We are pleased to congratulate alumna Allegra De Vita, ’11, on her second season in Washington National Opera’s (WNO) Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program. WNO is one of the leading opera companies in the U.S. Great work, Allegra – we are very proud of you.
Speaking of performing arts, we are excited to announce that members of our choir program were chosen to perform in a live recreation performance of Pete Townshend’s Classic Quadrophenia, featuring Townshend himself of The Who and Billy Idol, at the Metropolitan Opera House in NYC on September 9 and 10. What a terrific opportunity.
SHU Athletics is back in action. Our first football home game of the season is at 6 on Saturday against Stetson. Women’s rugby takes on Castleton at 3 on Friday and women’s field hockey battles Lehigh at 4:30 on Sunday. Good luck to all our student-athletes playing home and away.
As some of you heard me mention in my convocation address, be sure to follow me on social media to get a glimpse of what happens on campus. You will also meet the newest member of the Petillo family, Rosso, my daughter’s new dog. I’m hoping he brings lots of smiles to the entire SHU community.
Have a nice Labor Day weekend.