Alvernia Orientation Leaders Welcome Record Breaking Class

The Orientation Weekend Leaders (OWLs) for the 2024-2025 academic year brought the university's mission of 'knowledge joined with love' to life during New Student Orientation (NSO) and welcomed Alvernia's record-breaking incoming class with enthusiasm. From assisting with move-ins to leading a variety of engaging activities, the OWLs were dedicated to making sure new students felt embraced by the Alvernia community through service, leadership, and inclusion.

"I really enjoyed being in OWL training this year because it gave me connections with professional staff members and the rest of my team so we can be successful in welcoming new students," said Car Johnson, Head OWL for August 2024. "The scavenger hunt for Orientation Day of Service stood out to me specifically because students could learn about campus resources in a fun format."

OWLs are members of the Student Affairs para-professional staff selected based on leadership, character, and the ability to relate well with others. They facilitate the events of NSO, which support the academic and social transitions new students entering Alvernia University experience. During training, OWLS learn to articulate strategies that promote respectful and meaningful conversations in the Alvernia community and how to effectively promote campus resources for individual students' needs presented during NSO. Their vibrant leadership not only eased the transition for incoming students but also sparked a sense of belonging, setting the foundation for a transformative Alvernia experience.

"Being an OWL is such a fun experience," said Hailey Rohrer, new OWL hire for August 2024. "I loved helping new students connect with one another and get familiar with campus. The day of move-in may be busy, but it always comes together smoothly for students to create a lot of new relationships and settle into campus life"