More than 1,300 new students began moving in to the University of Mary Washington’s Fredericksburg campus on Friday, Aug. 23, to begin the 2013-14 academic year. Classes started on Monday, August 26.
An estimated 970 first-time freshmen and 347 transfer students are beginning their academic journey at UMW this fall. They will join approximately 3,000 returning students.
The incoming freshman class is made up of students from 24 states and 12 foreign countries. More than 20 percent identify themselves as members of a minority group. More than 90 percent will live in campus housing.
About 65 new students will participate in the Honors Program, in its second year at UMW.
On Sunday, incoming students attended the traditional Honor Convocation held in the Anderson Center. Stephen Davies, associate professor of computer science, gave the keynote address. During the ceremony, new students recited and signed the university’s honor pledge signifying their promise to uphold Mary Washington’s ethical code.
Following the convocation, the UMW campus community convened on Ball Circle for the Eagle Gathering, a tradition that began in 2012. The Eagle Gathering is a candle-lighting ceremony that helps new students understand UMW’s community values and spirit.
