BROWNWOOD – August 11, 2017 – With just over a week remaining until the first day of classes, Howard Payne University faculty and staff are busily preparing for the fall 2017 semester. Classes begin August 21 and Jacket Journey, HPU’s new-student orientation, will be held August 17-20.
Jacket Journey kicks off next Thursday morning with students moving into residence halls. Returning students and other volunteers from campus will be available to assist new students with the move-in process. That afternoon, incoming students will enjoy a picnic with Drs. Bill and Dr. Diana Ellis, HPU president and first lady.
Thursday evening, HPU will host Chime In, a ceremony in which new students walk through the university’s Wilson Gate before arriving at HPU’s Old Main Tower to sing the alma mater for the first time together as a class. Upon graduating from the university, the students will in turn participate in Chime Out, walking out of the Wilson Gate.
The rest of the week will consist of games and other activities designed to introduce new students to HPU and university life. On Saturday, students will participate in Serving With A Right Motive (S.W.A.R.M.), a community-service event. The following morning students will attend worship services at various churches throughout the community.
“There’s a renewed sense of energy on campus as we anticipate the arrival of our new students,” said Joshua Snow ’13, director of student activities. “Jacket Journey is an important part of student success at HPU and an exciting time for the entire campus community.”
For more information about HPU, visit www.hputx.edu.
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Cutline: HPU is preparing for the fall 2017 semester. Pictured is HPU’s Wilson Gate.