Randolph welcomes the Class of 2026

First-years moved onto campus on Thursday, Aug. 18, then spent the afternoon meeting with their Davenport Leaders before attending a welcome barbecue at the President’s House. Some even got to experience an important Randolph rite of passage: High-fiving Wanda WildCat.

Orientation continued throughout the weekend with a movie night, trivia, ghost tours, and sessions with advisors and various departments on campus, including the Career Development Center, the Counseling Center, and more.

The Office of Diversity, Identity, Culture, & Inclusion also hosted a special event for students on Saturday. The Akwaaba—the Ghanaian word for welcome—reception included a performance by the Kuumba Dance Ensemble and remarks from President Sue Ott Rowlands, Chief Diversity Officer Keesha Burke Henderson, and Board of Trustees Chair Hank Hubbard, along with student leaders, alums, and members of the Lynchburg community.