International Students Center and LU One host orientation Aug. 15

International and LU One students participated in an orientation Aug. 15 in the DeMoss Hall Grand Lobby that included speeches from President Dondi Costin and Executive Vice President for Student Affairs Mark Hine. 

Walter Virgil, the associate director of strategic projects and alliances at the Office of Opportunity and Enrichment, also took the stage and shared how pivotal clear communication and collaboration is for new students as they embark on their college journey for the first time.  

“We know that getting off to a great start is imperative in any venture, especially when you talk about a lot of these young people; this is the first time being away from home,” Virgil said.  

Virgil believes in order to effectively welcome new students, they must feel supported and seen. To fulfill this goal, Virgil discussed the necessity of ensuring students understand the resources at their disposal as well as informing them of the individuals who are able to assist them throughout their time on campus. 

Students were welcomed to the orientation with smiles and refreshments, followed by an opening speech from Costin. Costin encouraged students to ask questions and reminded them of the importance of a multi-national campus culture. 

“If the only culture you know is your own culture, your life will not be as rich as it will be if you interact and learn from those of other cultures,” Costin said. “… Don’t waste this opportunity; wring every ounce of goodness out of it.”  

Costin’s speech was followed by an emotional welcome from Hine. Hine reminded the students to appreciate their blessings and to not live in fear and anxiety but instead live devoted to God.  

“This is a life transforming place,” Hine said, “because God is in this place.”  

After the welcome from Costin and Hine, the rest of the orientation’s events unfolded. Students heard from Ellen Lowrie Black, executive director of LU One, and Kenny Warren, the director of the International Student Center. Each of the speakers tried to help students prepare for the weeks ahead.  

“The purpose of the event is to educate students,” said Sue Lee, an international student advisor. “International students have a lot of regulations, and we try to inform of what they have to do in order to maintain status and stay here in the states legally.”  

LU One’s next event will be a Fireside Chat in the LU One Lounge Sept. 9 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

Palsgrove is the Sports Editor for the Liberty Champion. Follow him on X.