Welcoming a Large Class: NSO 2025 Brings Energy and Connection to Campus
Published: September 01, 2025
Author: Liz Dowell
Greenville University's campus came alive during New Student Orientation (NSO) weekend in late August. At that time, GU welcomed one of its largest incoming classes in recent years, more than 400 students who moved into the residence halls and began their college journey.
For students and families alike, the weekend was a blend of excitement, anticipation, and heartfelt welcomes.
From the very start, the move-in process set a positive tone. Teams of faculty, staff, and volunteers collaborated to streamline arrival routes, post clear signage, and provide hands-on support, ensuring that what is often a stressful day unfolded smoothly.
“Check-in and moving students into their residence halls really went smoothly this year,” said Gret Tindall, GU’s coordinator of student engagement. “We had a team of people dedicated to ensuring all the routes were mapped out, staffed, and had signage so that the process was straightforward.”
Families noticed the difference. Dawn Bass, whose son is joining GU as a golf student-athlete, described the morning as “smooth and wonderful.” She added, “We didn’t have to worry about anything. People were here helping, and the nice weather made the day even better.”
The joy extended beyond logistics. For many parents, seeing their children join the Panther community was a poignant and emotional milestone.
Todd Noby, whose son Patrick is a first-year tennis player, reflected, “We’re excited. He’s our third child heading off to college, and this is a great opportunity for him. Move-in was so easy with the help we received unloading and getting settled."
Some students traveled much farther than others. One international student from Argentina, who came to Greenville to study and play basketball, shared his excitement: “I think it’s an excellent organization. I’m very excited for my first class.” His mother added, "We're delighted he has this opportunity to develop in both his sport and professional study."
As students settled in, campus life quickly began to buzz. Engagement was high at hallmark events like Playfair, where laughter echoed across the quad, and Scoops and Scholars, where students connected with faculty over ice cream. The Dining Commons’ welcome reception for parents also drew an unexpectedly large turnout of parents.
“It really surprised me the number of parents who attended the reception,” Tindall said. “I don’t know if it was the messaging, the new location, or just this year’s families, but they showed up.”
The mother of new Panther Ethan Wendell said that orientation offered both reassurance and a sense of belonging. "We like it here," she said. "It feels right."
By the close of NSO, the record-breaking class was not just moved in; they were already finding their place in the community. The attached pictures of students laughing together, meeting professors, and exploring the campus capture what words can only begin to describe: the beginning of a transformative journey.
