Beginning on Aug. 24, Arcadia University welcomed more than 550 first-year and transfer students to campus for the start of their experiences as Knights.

The Class of 2026, many of whom moved into residence halls and participated in icebreaker and educational events throughout the week, includes students from around the country and Canada, China, India, Kyrgyzstan, and South America. 

“Everything here feels really welcoming, so I think I’ll do well both academically and athletically,” said Kayla Martisofski ’26, a first-year Graphic Design major and member of the swim team from Hazelton, Pa. “I went to a very large high school, so I’m looking forward to the smaller campus feel here. It’s different from what I’m used to, but it’s a good kind of different.” 

Welcome Week was highlighted by Opening Convocation, a formal academic ceremony that serves as the official kickoff to the academic year. Students heard from President Ajay Nair, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Jeff Rutenbeck, Vice President for Enrollment Management Rak Hall, Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Alex Otieno, and Assistant Director of Campus Life Staci-Jo Palek. 

“Arcadia students think big. They pursue their passions and often discover new ones along the way,” said President Nair. “Our incoming class includes students who are members of award-winning choirs and theater troupes; have logged thousands of volunteer hours; and were high school Academic All-Americans for various sports.”

Convocation was followed by a picnic and live concert on Haber Green. Other Welcome Week events included a volunteer service project, with students and staff packaging 25,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger Philadelphia; a dance at Grey Towers Castle; outdoor movie night; and campus tours and resources to get students ready for the first week of classes. 

On Saturday, the Black Alumni Association of Arcadia University (BAAAU) will host the “Welcome Black” community celebration. This will include special remarks from University leaders and a commemorative Arcadia Black Knights pinning ceremony. 

“The move-in to Knight Hall was pretty smooth, and I like my suite,” said Nia Dickens ’26, a first-year student from Maryland, who is majoring in Scientific Illustration. “I had six family members here and three cars full of stuff. I think I still have room for one or two more things in my dorm.”

Commuting students also participated in Welcome Week and got to know the campus with their new peers. 

“It’s been good to talk about classes and getting to know everyone,” said Raffi Perez ’26, a first-year commuting student from Elkins Park. “I liked a lot of the stuff going on this week, especially the bingo with iPads and JBL speakers as prizes.”