Students and their families lined up in their vehicles down University Drive before the official start of move-in at 9 a.m. Saturday. As they checked in, President Kim Mooney, with the assistance of FPU’s peer leaders and student-athletes, greeted the newest students.

“This has been the best move-in process on the face of the earth,” stated Steve Smith, father of Dylan Smith of Wallingford, Conn. “It was so easy for us as parents and the students who welcomed us were fantastic.”

Of the 301 newest Ravens, including freshmen and transfer students, the top three declared majors are health sciences, criminal justice and sports and recreation management. Katie Tuetin of Chesterfield arrived on campus with her mother Laurie, an alumna of the Class of 1999.

“I wanted to keep the family tradition alive,” stated Katie.

Following move-in and lunch, Mooney addressed the Class of 2027 and their families under the large orientation tent on Cheshire Field.

“We understand and embrace the awesome responsibility not only to help shape your students’ lives while they are at Franklin Pierce, foster in them the personal goals and character that will shape their futures,” she said.

Recalling her freshman move-in experience when she arrived at Franklin Pierce in 1979, Mooney shared how the hopes and dreams her parents had for her then are not that different than those of today’s parents.

“My parents wanted me to be happy, to study and do well in my classes; to make friends and yes, to graduate from Franklin Pierce and then pursue a career and be successful, whatever that would be for me. You want what my parents wanted for me and you and your students deserve nothing less,” she said.

Classes begin on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Submitted by Franklin Pierce University.