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First-year student Ethan Craig ’30 turned a summer internship at the Mitford Museum into hands-on experience in museum curation — and caught a glimpse of the places his passion for art might someday lead.

�鶹���� will mark a milestone throughout the 2026-27 academic year, celebrating 135 years of educating leaders, serving communities and transforming lives.

Who are the newest Bears? Get to know �鶹����’s record-breaking incoming class by exploring the facts about where they’re coming from, what they’ll study and more.

Record enrollment, historic fundraising and major campus investments set the stage for �鶹����’s 2026-27 academic year as the university builds for the future.

Nine days of events welcome Bears to campus with �鶹���� traditions, new activities and opportunities to connect with the university and Hickory communities.

Mentorship transformed Dominic Jackson's college experience. As �鶹����'s new assistant dean of students, he's helping students find purpose, belonging and opportunities for growth.

From “Pretty in Pink” to bestselling memoirs, the actor, director and author will kick off the Visiting Writers Series with a discussion of his latest book, “Who Needs Friends.”

A landmark commitment from Cliff '76 and Amy Ritchie names the university's newest signature facility and launches a bold new era for student wellness.

A Hickory native with more than 16 years of prior service at �鶹����, Wood brings broad experience in academic innovation, student success and regional partnerships to the university’s chief academic role.

�鶹����'s director of new student programs and engagement believes the best college experiences begin with listening, connection and a welcoming campus culture.

More than 900 handwritten notes from �鶹���� alumni welcomed the university's largest incoming class, offering encouragement, campus traditions and a sense of belonging before move-in.

Following a five-month campus-wide engagement process and unanimous approval by the Board of Trustees, �鶹���� has adopted revised Mission, Vision and Values that will guide the university's future and provide a clearer, more memorable expression of �鶹����'s identity.