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Before they arrive on campus for move-in this August, members of �鶹����'s Class of 2030 are receiving unexpected welcomes in their home mailboxes — a handwritten card from an alum eager to celebrate their accomplishment, share memories of �鶹���� and offer encouragement for the journey ahead.

The letters are part of a new initiative led by Mary Ellen Sherrill ’10 MA ’25, director of alumni and donor engagement. Rather than following a template, alumni were encouraged to write from the heart.

“Each card reflects the writer's own experience at �鶹����,” said Sherrill. “Some share advice about getting involved on campus or favorite places to study. Others recall memorable traditions, athletic events and friendships that shaped their college experience. Together, they welcome our newest students into the Bear family.”

Alumni began writing letters in March as enrollment deposits started arriving. By summer, volunteers had written more than 900 personalized notes — enough to provide every incoming first-year and transfer student expected this fall with a personal note as �鶹���� prepares to welcome the largest incoming class in the university's 135-year history.

“I have always been someone who believes in the value of a personal touch,” said Ashley Clack, M.A.’22, interim director of counseling and wellness. “Encouraging students to find a sense of belonging early on through the many communities and offerings on campus was important to me.”

Many alumni reflected on their own experiences as students, encouraging incoming Bears to embrace the opportunities, friendships and traditions that await them at �鶹����.  

“I wanted students to know that they are starting an unforgettable journey, one they will look back on for a lifetime,” said Emily Kiziah Banks ’20. “Writing a note is a simple but powerful way to connect with incoming students, encourage them and help shape their first moments on campus.”

For other alumni, the project presented an opportunity to build community with new students as well as an accessible and meaningful way to give back to �鶹����.

“These personal notes help new students get excited for the upcoming school year and reinforce the fact that they made the right decision in choosing �鶹����,” said Alex Deal, MBA ’22. “These initiatives are so simple — they do not take up much of our time, but their impact is immeasurable. It's an easy way to give back to a place that has given us so much.”

For students, the handwritten notes serve as more than a welcome. They offer an early reminder that joining �鶹���� means becoming part of a network of faculty, staff, fellow students and alumni who are invested in their success from the very beginning.

Nick Wilson ’05, M.S. ’18, commented, “Starting something new can come with doubt, but growth often comes from those uncomfortable moments, and there's a community behind them rooting for their success.”