GU’s All-College Hike: A physical challenge that delivers spiritual rewards
Published: September 26, 2025
Author: Dave Bell
To celebrate the beginning of a new school year, hundreds of Greenville University students laced up their running shoes on Sept. 17 to participate in one of the University’s most celebrated traditions – the All-College Hike.
That six-mile trek drew a steady stream of students, faculty, and staff along the streets and country roads between campus and Durley Camp on the shore of Governor Bond Lake. Some ran the entire distance as part of their daily workout, some hopped on a bike and pedaled, and others opted out of the physical challenge and rode in vehicles. Most, however, chose to walk the route, putting one foot in front of the other while talking with friends and enjoying the fall scenery.
“The All-College Hike is a special time to celebrate the beginning of a new school year,” said GU Chaplain Keli Pennington, who spoke to the student body while holding her ten-week-old son. “It’s a day centered around community and connections.”
Along with the fellowship gained by overcoming the physical challenge of the hike, the University community came together at the lakeside camp through a shared meal, various recreational activities, and a worship service in the camp’s open-air tabernacle.
Headlining the worship service was a message delivered by Richard Huston, a retired GU history professor, who urged students to embrace the Christian faith fully. “Say ‘Yes’ to God with all your life,” Huston urged. “God wants every part of our lives, because when that happens, he can transform us and use us to transform the world.”
Jorgi Depureur, vice president of the Greenville Student Government Association, said the event aims to encourage student involvement. “I sense that the new students are interested in finding ways to plug in,” she said. “As always, several student and community organizations had booths out at Durley Camp. It was a good place for students to see the opportunities available to them.”
Another highlight for many was getting the chance to spend the day outdoors in nature.
“It was very peaceful and beautiful running past the cornfields on the way to the lake,” said Alexa Martinez, a freshman member of the GU Cross Country Team, which used the hike as a workout opportunity. Her sentiments were shared by Professor of Chemistry Scott Pattenaude, who said, “The hike is special because it gets us out in nature. I especially like the worship service when we’re in such a beautiful setting.”
Eric Watterson, assistant vice president of instruction, assessment, and innovation, described the hike as “a tradition that is still a really robust experience.” He emphasized that the hike is special because it brings together students, staff, and faculty. “By participating in an activity like this,” he said, “they get to know each other in ways that go beyond the usual campus interactions. It’s something that makes GU unique.”
The All-College Hike is more than just a day when classes are canceled and students are invited to take a walk in the country. Instead, it’s a tradition that challenges participants both physically and spiritually.
