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Summer Orientation Helps New Hawks Prepare for Fall

New Hawk Summer Orientation brought 235 incoming students and more than 600 guests to Hartwick College on June 8 and June 12, giving students and families an early opportunity to connect with the campus community before the start of the fall semester.

Students attending orientation came from 14 states, traveling from as far away as Arizona and Idaho. The incoming class also reflects 34 academic interests and includes 127 student-athletes and 109 students from HartLand Promise regions.

Jacqueline Gregory, vice president for enrollment management, said the program provides an important opportunity for students and families to become familiar with the Hartwick community before arriving on campus in August.

“Summer Orientation gives students and families a chance to begin their Hartwick journey together,” Gregory said.

Hartwick new students walking on Founders' Way on campus during Summer Orientation
Hartwick College student New Student Orientation Group Leaders
New students and families check in at Lambros Arena for Summer Orientation
Hartwick College new student with family at Summer Orientation in Lambros Arena
Hartwick College new student with family at Summer Orientation in Lambros Arena
Hartwick College new students and families listening to opening session at Summer Orientation in Lambros Arena
Hartwick College new student posing for photo with family during Summer Orientation

“From meeting future classmates and professors to learning about campus resources and expectations, these early connections help students feel more confident and prepared for the transition to college.”

Jacqueline Gregory

Vice President for Enrollment Management

Throughout the day, students participated in sessions focused on campus life, student engagement and community expectations, while families attended presentations on topics ranging from career development and faculty research to study abroad opportunities and early arrival programs. Additional activities included campus resource fairs, roommate mixers, athletics sessions and opportunities to connect with faculty and staff.

Colleen Bunn, interim dean for student experience, said the orientation days are designed to help students build a strong foundation before arriving on campus for the fall semester.

“This work is valuable because we want to set students up for success not only academically, but in the ways they engage with the college and with their peers,” Bunn said. “Many of the sessions during this June orientation focused on building community and relationships.”

For many students, the experience helped ease nerves and build excitement for the fall semester.

Cassie Dodenhoff ’29 of Islip Terrace, New York, said the visit helped make the transition feel more manageable. “Super exciting to meet people and get a feel for the environment, so I am not starting from scratch in August.”

Dodenhoff’s mother, Michele, said the welcoming atmosphere stood out throughout the day.

“Everybody here’s been wonderful and has already answered a lot of our questions, so I feel like it’s a really warm, welcoming place,” Michele Dodenhoff said. “I’m happy that my daughter’s going to be here.”

Katie Gross ’30 of Troy, New York, said one of the highlights was meeting her future roommate and becoming more comfortable with campus.

Incoming first-year student Katie Gross ’30 of Troy, New York, said one of the best parts of the day was meeting her future roommate.

“Cassie (Dodenhoff) and I get to hang out together. I also get a feel for the campus and be comfortable before my first day.”

The first day of classes for Hartwick’s newest Hawks and returning students is Monday, Aug. 31.

June 30, 2026
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