By Naomi Balk

CIU Student Writer

Welcome Week introduced new CIU students to life on campus and involved them in creative activities. The warm reception was greatly appreciated by the freshmen and transfer students.

“It’s been a really good introduction to CIU culture and the student leaders,” said Lindsay Hislop “I’m glad that we have it and don’t get thrown into classes.”

Freshman Robyn Andrews, who is a part of CIU’s inaugural softball team, says Welcome Week was a lot of fun.

“I love the atmosphere with all the amazing people around,” Andrews laughed and added with a look of confidence, “I’m also looking forward to going undefeated in softball.”

One of the many Welcome Week events was the President’s Reception on West Lawn on Thursday evening. Lights grew brighter as the sun set. Students enjoyed taking photos with their new friends, conversation and desserts.

Members of the men’s basketball team sat on the swings overlooking Pine View Apartments. Among them was freshman Kyron Bolden.

“I’m most excited about getting closer with God, meeting, and getting to know new people,” Bolden said.   

Transfer student Kathrine Kitchell was among a group of women seated at a tall table decorated with white hydrangeas as she discussed what drew her to CIU.

“I really like how the college is based on prayer,” Kitchell said. “That has really been impressive to me. I’m looking forward to growing in Christ more and finding my purpose and what [God] would show me what He wants me to do.”

On Friday afternoon, students armed themselves with bottles of bleach and rubber gloves as they doused shirts at a tie dye party getting ready for Tie Dye Night at the CIU women’s and men’s soccer matches on Saturday night where both were victorious over Regent University.

As Mackenzie Ebanks took in the Welcome Week activities, she reflected on why she enrolled at CIU.

“One of the reasons I came to the school was for the Bible teaching and spiritual formation,” Ebanks said. “I really do want to grow in my relationship with the Lord. I got to talk to a lot of people and make acquaintances and I hope these things continue.”       

CIU is experiencing growth in enrollment and has announced $25 million in expansion plans for the campus. More information on enrollment is available here or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024.