News Summary
Lander University hosted its largest freshman class during the annual orientation event at Finis Horne Arena. With a 20% increase in enrollment, the university welcomed new students with lively activities and support from staff and volunteers. The orientation fostered community and connections among students, emphasizing affordability in education with no tuition increase for a decade, ensuring higher education remains accessible.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Lander University welcomed its largest incoming class of freshmen during its annual orientation event, which commenced on a warm Friday at Finis Horne Arena. With a noteworthy increase of 20% in this year’s freshman enrollment compared to last year, the university is seeing a significant rise in interest and participation among new students.
The orientation event kicked off with a busy check-in process, where freshmen arrived in vehicles loaded with personal items, ready to move into their new campus life. Lander University’s beloved mascot, Bearcat, made an appearance to greet the students, symbolizing the welcoming spirit of the university community. The institution’s president, Richard Cosentino, addressed the new students, highlighting that being part of Lander means they will be “Bearcats for the rest of their lives.”
To mitigate the effects of the scorching mid-90s heat, staff provided hand-held fans to the attendees. The atmosphere was lively as the new students participated in a group photo shoot in front of the iconic Laura Lander Hall, marking the beginning of their university journey.
As part of the orientation activities, students took part in a brief march to the arena, designed to help them forge connections through shared experiences. This year’s freshman class is complemented by a record number of transfer students, enhancing the diversity and vibrancy of the student population. Lander University staff and student volunteers played crucial roles in assisting freshmen during the move-in process, ensuring that every student felt welcomed and supported.
Students expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about starting their college journey. Orientation also featured a community cookout and pool party, allowing newcomers to relax and socialize before classes begin. For many nursing majors among the incoming freshmen, anticipation for beginning their educational journey was palpable, as they look forward to contributing to the healthcare field.
One of the highlights of Lander University’s orientation program was the emphasis on community. Students were encouraged to immerse themselves in campus life early on to build connections and foster friendships that would last throughout their college years. This orientation effort aligns with the university’s commitment to maintaining affordable education, as tuition has remained unchanged for the past decade, making higher education accessible for many families.
As the day progressed, faculty and current students ensured that newcomers were well-acquainted with the opportunities available to them, ultimately aiming to ease the transition to college life and create a sense of belonging within the Lander community.
Orientation Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Attendance | 20% increase in freshman enrollment |
| Date | Friday event |
| Location | Finis Horne Arena |
| Activities | Check-in, photo shoot, march, cookout, pool party |
| Support | Staff and student volunteers assisted freshmen |
| Tuition | No increase in 10 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Lander University’s orientation?
The orientation aims to acclimate incoming freshmen to college life, helping them connect with peers and build community from the outset.
What events are included in the orientation?
Orientation activities include a check-in process, group photo shoots, a march to the arena, and social events like a cookout and pool party.
How has enrollment changed at Lander University?
This year’s freshman class is 20% larger than the previous year’s, indicating a growing interest in the university.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lander University Appoints New Dean of College of Education
Lander University Begins Construction of New Nursing Building
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Lander University Orientation
- Google Search: Lander University orientation
- Index Journal: Welcome Home
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lander University
- GoLaurens: Taylor Cook Joins Lander University
- Google News: Lander University
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.


