Beneath cool, cloudy skies, the shining new Class of 2025 triumphantly ascended the hill to Gustavus Adolphus College, ready to embark on a life-changing four-year journey together.
Despite graduating from high school amid a global pandemic, the achievements of this year’s incoming class were as strong as ever, with a mean GPA of 3.7, an average ACT score of 28, and 40 percent graduating in the top 10 percent of their high school class.
With two years worth of excitement saved up, Gustie Greeters welcomed each arrival with cheers that could be heard throughout campus. Student patrollers in bright orange jackets directed traffic around Norelius, Pittman, and Sohre Halls, where Gustie Move Crew members stood by in ponchos and raincoats. Although a misty rain wasn’t entirely unwelcome for the sweaty movers, the weather proved that rain or shine, the helpful and welcoming spirit of Gusties always shines through.
“When we turned the corner and the Greeters were there—that was amazing,” said new empty nester Pam Orton (St. Louis Park), mother of Elizabeth Orton ’25. Said her husband, Jon, “It’s the community. You can feel it right away. And in all the people willing to help carry our daughter’s things to the fifth floor of Norelius!”
Throughout the day, Gus made the rounds, giving out high-fives and posing for pictures. President Rebecca Bergman stopped by the residence halls to personally welcome Gusties to campus, and families chatted with her over ice cream later that afternoon.
As Gusties from Bangladesh and Burnsville mingled with ones from Eritrea and Eden Prairie, safety was a top priority during Move-In Day. Masks were required indoors, and two buffet lunches and two Convocation ceremonies were held to allow for social distancing.
At Convocation, new students and their families listened to words of wisdom from President Bergman; Richard Aune ’81, associate vice president and dean of admission; JoNes VanHecke, vice president for life and dean of students; Brenda Kelly, provost and dean of the faculty; and Doug Thompson, vice president for equity and inclusion. Despite overseeing different aspects of the College, their core message was the same: the Class of 2025 is ready to achieve amazing things.
“Within four years, the world will be better because of your experiences here at Gustavus,” said Thompson. Said Bergman, “I hope you’ve arrived with a great sense of optimism and lofty expectations for yourself, and high hopes for your future.”
“Breathe, relax, and embrace the moment,” Aune reassured them. “If you are sitting here, it is because you are supposed to be sitting here.
“We are proud to offer each and every one of you a place in the Class of 2025.”