UMO Welcomes New Students to Campus

The University of Mount Olive welcomed new students to campus on Saturday, August 24. Faculty, staff, and student volunteers helped with move-in.  Community organizations, businesses, and churches handed out bottled water, lemonade, and snacks.

“It is always great to have this connection between the University and the community,” said UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom. “It gives our incoming students and their families a glimpse of Southern hospitality at its finest!

During the evening convocation, President Croom encouraged the incoming class to set themselves apart, to make good decisions, and to let their lights shine.  He referenced Matthew 5: 14-16, which reads, “You are the light of the world.  A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”

Croom noted that the UMO faculty will do everything possible to ensure the students’ lights will burn as bright as possible.  “These folks will give you the resources to ensure you have wonderful opportunities,” Croom said. “We encourage you to take advantage of them.”

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Burt Lewis and Mount Olive Mayor Jerome Newton welcomed students to both the University community and the town.

UMO’s a cappella group, Carolina Sound, performed a beautiful arrangement of High Hopes by Panic! at the Disco.

The convocation ended with a candlelight ceremony and the singing of the University’s alma mater. Students then headed to the Alumni Dining Room for bingo featuring food and prizes.

To see more photos from move-in, visit images.umo.edu/2024/move-in