The Class of 2013 at Claflin University is special in two distinct ways.
First, its 474 members is the largest freshman class in school history, selected from the largest pool of applicants ever. Second, the class begins its first academic year as Claflin celebrates 140 years of existence.
Claflin held its Matriculation Day Convocation Thursday to officially open the academic year and welcome and introduce the incoming class to the Claflin Family. This year, the event also launched Claflin’s 140th year celebration, and unveiled the theme “140 Years of Access and Success.”
“We are celebrating the birthday and legacy of the university,” said President Henry N. Tisdale. “For 140 years Claflin University has given access and success to thousands of students from generation to generation. Claflin has evolved, had many battles, and won many victories. It’s a compelling story. One-hundred-forty years ago the world witnessed the birth of Claflin University, a beacon on a hilltop high.”
Claflin University has experienced tremendous growth over the years, extending its mission to provide access to education, regardless of race, and steer its students on a path to success. Over the past 15 years, Claflin’s enrollment has doubled to more than 1,800 students from national and international locations. This year’s freshman class is in fact the largest ever, exceeding last year’s record setting class. However, enrollment has also increased due to the retention of upper class students.
“If you could’ve seen Claflin 25 years ago, you wouldn’t believe it today,” Mayor Paul Miller said before reading a proclamation from the City of Orangeburg commemorating the 140th anniversary. “In the last 15 years, I’ve seen a transformation like none before.”
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President Henry N. Tisdale speaks during the Matriculation Day Program. |
Dr. Lori Hicks, assistant professor of voice and opera, and the Claflin University Concert Choir performed a tribute to the university’s 140 years titled “Claflin Mine.” Dr. Hicks wrote the song which focused on Claflin’s mission, principles and history.
Several events are planned this school term to celebrate the anniversary. The Alonzo Webster Wright Lyceum Series featuring the John Brown Orchestra will be held on Oct. 29 and an alumni exhibit will be featured in the Arthur Rose Museum on campus during the month of November. A Gala celebrating “Claflin’s First Among Alumni” is planned for March and an Arts and Letter Appreciation Week will be held in April.
In reflecting on the university’s legacy, Dr. Tisdale encouraged students to work hard and take advantage of the opportunities at Claflin University.
“The solutions to some of the world’s pressing problems will be solved right here on Claflin’s campus,” Dr. Tisdale said. “Students we need you to fulfill the future success of this institute and the world. Work hard to become extraordinary achievers with a distinctive Claflin confidence. You must become the next generation of a world visionary and personify success beyond the walls of Claflin University.
“I want all of us to believe that the best is yet to come,” he continued. “A solid foundation has been made. Let us do our part and let us do it now. Leave determined to be the best you can be.”
