HSU Class of 2024 is Off to a Great Start

On-campus, Hardin-Simmons University’s newest freshman class is already full of excitement about their first opportunity to experience campus life, even amid many of the “new normals.” Although necessary modifications were made this year, students certainly did not miss the chance to participate in the time-honored tradition of freshman orientation at Stampede.

This year many activities were held outdoors, any large gatherings were kept to a minimum, and Shelton stadium was utilized to allow for proper distancing. Among the activities during the three-day event were the traditional beanie capping, movie night, and Gilbert games.

HSU’s Class of 2024 will certainly never forget their first year of college life in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as this class demonstrated during their first days on campus, they have embraced and embodied the spirit of cooperation, persistence, and community that HSU’s legacy represents. Despite the challenges of returning to campus for in-person learning, the HSU community all pledged that we are “Better Together” as an outward commitment to take personal responsibility,  following preventative measures to protect ourselves and each other from potential exposure to the virus. As a result, as the first week of classes drew to a close, there was only 1 confirmed positive COVID case.

“Students and parents alike let us know that what makes Hardin-Simmons unique are the on-campus experiences. That is why we put such a tremendous effort into a return-to-campus plan that focused on safe, in-person learning”, shared Stacey Martin, VP of Student Life.

HSU’s enrollment also held steady this year as we returned to on-campus learning. Total enrollment was 2,128 students. Of this total, 710 were new students to Hardin-Simmons with 454 first-time freshmen, 73 new transfer students and 183 new graduate students.

We’re off to a great start class of 2024!