Welcoming the Class of 2025

As new students arrived on campus throughout August, Hardin-Simmons University faculty and staff have worked hard to make them feel welcome through a variety of events and activities.

Freshmen and transfer students began their journeys as HSU Cowboys during Stampede (August 17-22), an annual freshman orientation filled with HSU traditions, excitement, and many opportunities to get connected. Students participated in HSU traditions such as paint wars, color initiation, a movie night at the Paramount Theater, Gilbert games, and the beanie capping ceremony, which was followed by the Alumni ice cream social and candlelight ceremony.

Student mentors led new students through various challenges and activities around Abilene, and the football team led the Lineman Challenge. Throughout the week, students shared meals, times of worship, and group time with designated First Year Seminar classes allowed for fun-filled days of meeting new people and learning what it means to be part of the HSU family.

Beyond Stampede, the first week of classes was also filled with many exciting events. To help equip new students with resources and information about churches in Abilene, a business and church fair was held on Monday. The Baptist Student Ministry hosted Howdy Party on Tuesday evening, an opportunity for students to learn about the BSM’s mission and ministry teams. The HSU club and organization fair was held on Thursday to display the wide variety of groups to get involved with on campus, and the HSU Rocks talent show and block party, as well as the HSU Day of Service, were all held Friday night for all students.

To round it all up, SABERs hosted YEEHAW Night on Saturday to honor our western heritage. Students met new people, learned to square and line dance, enjoyed sweet treats, and got into the Cowboy spirit!

We love seeing new faces on campus and are so glad to bring new members into the HSU family. Go Cowboys!