The campus was sparkling despite the occasional rain shower on Friday, Aug. 23, when new students moved into their Cabrini home away from home. Nearly 200 enthusiastic current students helped families unload, carry, and haul overflowing carloads of belongings into Woodcrest, East, and Xavier residence halls.
The 390 students in Cabrini’s Class of 2023 hail from 10 states as well as Ethiopia and Mexico. A full 77 percent of them reside on campus; 58 percent of the class is female and 42 percent is male.
Although they may not have known it, some new students even received a helping hand from University President Donald B. Taylor, PhD, who cruised around in a golf cart semi-incognito with his wife Lechia and member of Cabrini’s founding order Christine Marie Baltas, Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (’66). Many staff and faculty members were also on hand to provide assistance.
After getting settled in the residence halls, families came together for a Welcome Mass in the Bruckmann Memorial Chapel of Saint Joseph, celebrated by Carl F. Janicki, Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry.
The day’s events continued with the traditional Matriculation ceremony, where Cabrini officially enrolled its new class, led by an academic procession in the Nerney Field House. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Chioma Ugochukwu, PhD, served as presider, and Professional Advisor and Retention Specialist Angelica Martinez offered the invocation, suggesting that students “embrace the uncomfortable.”
Taylor then welcomed the newest Cavaliers. “As members of the Cabrini family, you now have a network of alumni, classmates, faculty, and staff who are ready to help you succeed, are cheering for you, and will become your biggest fans,” he said, encouraging them to think about how they’ll share their passions with the world.
Addressing the parents, guardians, family members, and mentors, Taylor said, “We are committed to providing your students with an Education of the Heart and to unlocking your students’ potentials by providing the best college experience for them.”
Continuing a theme of making the most of time at Cabrini were Alumni Association President Nick Luchko (’01) and Assistant Professor of Education Zakia Gates, PhD. “Even though it’s been 22 years since I moved into Xavier Hall,” Luchko said, “I’m still getting advice from my mentors at Cabrini.” Gates wrapped up her remarks with a quote from author Regina Brett: “No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.”
Student Government President Association President Jessica Arocho (’21) led students in an acceptance of Cabrini’s Core Values—respect, vision, community, and dedication to excellence—followed by Ugochukwu’s official commendation of the new students to the faculty, their formal entrance into the University community.
“We wish you every blessing and challenge you to reach beyond your expectations to new heights of learning,” she said, “and to being in solidarity with others and preparing for a life in your chosen fields.”
The program concluded with a rousing rendition of the Cavalier Fight Song that brought the Orientation leaders to their feet in spirit and camaraderie. Families shared heartfelt—and sometimes tearful—good-byes as members of Cabrini’s Class of 2023 moved on to continue with three days of Orientation activities. Classes for all students began Monday, Aug. 26.
View the Fall 2023 Class Profile.
View more Move-In Day photos or see video below