Wick Weekend Sets the Tone for Fall
The start of every academic year on Oyaron Hill is about more than classes and coursework: it’s about balance, responsibility, belonging and the joy of building community.
That message was front and center during Wick Weekend, the College’s three-day celebration that ushered in the 2025–26 academic year and welcomed 332 new students from 21 states and 10 countries.
The celebration kicked off Friday, Aug. 22, with move-in, family farewells and a class photo, before the Class of 2029 gathered in Lambros Arena for Opening Convocation. There, President James Mullen reminded students that the Hartwick community has placed its trust in them to succeed and with that trust comes both opportunity and responsibility:
“Hartwick offers a culture built on balance, balancing rigorous academics with a full array of experiences beyond the classroom,” said Mullen. “You will grow through the arts, athletics, research, service and the beauty of our trails and Pine Lake. With these opportunities comes the responsibility to live well in community, supporting your classmates, recognizing the dignity and gifts of every person here and helping to make Hartwick stronger, more welcoming, more inclusive and more deeply committed to learning and service.”
That spirit carried into the weekend with activities that brought students together both on campus and at Pine Lake, where they enjoyed kayaking, painting and a scavenger hunt before returning for a carnival under the lights on Frisbee Field.
Sunday’s First Walk, a cherished Hartwick tradition, gave the newest Hawks their official welcome as they walked together through Founders’ Way, setting the stage for the start of classes on Monday, Aug. 25.
For first-year students, the weekend set the stage for what lies ahead and reflected the reasons many chose the College.
