Lander University President Richard Cosentino, speaking at Lander's Opening Convocation on Tues. Aug. 27, said that "well over 3,200 students" are enrolled at Lander this semester, the largest enrollment in the history of the school.
Lander's freshman class, likewise, is the largest ever, surpassing the record-setting classes of the last two years.
According to Cosentino, Lander's residence halls are more than 99 percent filled, with a waiting list of students who also want to live on campus.
"Our growth is amazing. What does that say about Lander? It's clear. It shows that students want to come to our great institution," he said.
Roughly a thousand freshmen were present for the ceremony, and Cosentino had a message for them.
"In my opinion, it's all about the first two months. Those who go to class and do their assignments will be successful, and those who are not totally engaged for the first two months may not succeed. Develop your life skills and your study skills right now. Keep your wits about you, work hard, and you will be on your way to earning a valuable degree," he said.
Associate Professor of History Dr. Franklin Rausch, Lander's Distinguished Professor of the Year, also spoke. He said that the "fellowship and friendship" he got from playing Dungeons and Dragons with a group of students while at Indiana University helped to "sustain" him when he began his teaching career, and he encouraged those present to also join student groups, such as the history club he advises.
Joining a fraternity or sorority, or a group based on an interest, hobby or cause, challenges students to "be a better person. Not only will you learn something useful, you'll have fun doing it, and you'll have a support system when you find yourself trying to navigate something difficult," Rausch said.