After all of the list-making and campus tours, applications and recommendations, acceptances and decisions, Case Western Reserve’s newest undergraduates finally came together as one Monday afternoon.
The 1,550 members of the Class of 2027—along with 70 transfer students—gathered in the Veale Convocation, Recreation and Athletic Center for the official University Welcome.
They heard from speakers ranging from university President Eric W. Kaler to Undergraduate Student Government President Basil Yaseen, Interim Provost Joy K. Ward to Inamori Professor of Ethics Shannon French and more.
Dean of Undergraduate Admission Robert McCullough—whose name appeared on many of the messages they received as prospective students—reflected on how he and his team had approached the acceptance process.
“In selecting you for this community, we knew that you would take full advantage of all of these opportunities to make for a rich college experience, that you would pour yourself into this environment to see what you could become,” McCullough said. “And we can’t wait to see all that you will do.”
Interim Provost Ward spoke both to the incoming students—and their families.
“We know how precious your young people are. We are here for them—as educators and mentors, confidence builders, counselors, health care providers and more,” she told parents and guardians. “They are now also a part of the Case Western Reserve family, and we are honored to welcome them.”
And President Kaler reminded students that they were ready for the experiences to come.
“Make smart choices and be safe,” he concluded. “Stay open-minded and curious. And go out and do some important, fun stuff.”