Class of 2027 Arrives at Springfield College
Springfield College officially welcomed the incoming class of 2027 and transfer students.
By: Damon Markiewicz
Springfield College officially welcomed the incoming class of 2027 and transfer students to Alden Street on Friday, September 8, 2023, with traditional undergraduate first-year students getting settled into campus life as part of Move-In Day and New Student Orientation (NSO) activities. The incoming class arrival officially started the 2023-24 academic year.
In the true Springfield College Humanics tradition, returning students, faculty, staff, and alumni assisted all incoming students with moving into their residence halls as soon as they arrived.
During the afternoon session, the class of 2027 was greeted by Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper as part of the New Student Convocation ceremony in Blake Arena, attended by the campus community, including returning and new faculty members. Once again, the College welcomes an incoming first-year class that represents one of the strongest academic profiles in the school’s history.
“I know I speak for myself, my fellow colleagues, your parents, and the entire Springfield College community in saying, we are so excited to see you, and we are looking forward to seeing what your story turns out to be,” said Cooper, who is in her 11th years as president of Springfield College.
Cooper went on to add, “Class of 2027, you have chosen Springfield College as your home, and you are in the right place at the right time.”
Joining Cooper in welcoming students and their families was New Student Orientation Executive Board Member Connor Caverly, who explained to attendees why he transferred to Springfield College two years ago.
“The opportunity to come to Springfield College came to me at the perfect time,” explained Caverly, who is a member of the baseball team. “I needed a place to help me identify who I wanted to be, and a place I could call home. My parents met here, got engaged here, and started a life here. It was my turn.”
Springfield College holds a special place in the hearts of the Caverly family. Connor’s dad, John Caverly ’92, G’94, is a double alumnus, and Connor’s mom, Renee Teixeira Caverly ’93, G’95, also earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in physical education at the College. Since arriving at Springfield, Connor has received multiple opportunities to develop his leadership skills, including serving as a student ambassador, and being named a co-chair for the Student Athlete Leadership Team.
“Mom and dad, you were right, Springfield College is as amazing as you said it would be,” added Caverly. “Incoming students, take time to enjoy the traditions of the College, and know you are at a very special place.”
Joining Caverly on stage was fellow NSO executive board member Victoria Monica, who is an Occupational Therapy major entering her senior year.
“One word that best describes Springfield College is opportunity,” explained Monica, who is a member of the student advocates for wellness. “Class of 2027, you are here for a reason, embrace the change, and start making those connections. You will see that it’s the people at Springfield College that makes it so special. You are surrounded by people who want to help you succeed.”
Representing the hard-working faculty who are dedicated daily to assisting with the students’ accomplishments, Springfield College Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Mary Ann Coughlin reinforced what makes life on Alden Street unique from an academic perspective.
"With the help of our great faculty, you will be able to develop strong academic skills, and you will find it’s a partnership in learning,” said Coughlin.
In conclusion, Vice President for Student Affairs Slandie Dieujuste summarized how the campus community will make sure that all students are successful.
“You came to Springfield College as an original, and we want all students to be themselves,” explained Dieujuste. “The best way to leave a lasting legacy is to be yourself. You will be challenged, but that’s necessary for your growth. This is home, and this is the place you were meant to be at. Enjoy the journey, and we are always here for you.”
Humanics in Action
The Class of 2027 was quickly introduced to living our Humanics philosophy. During the first day of NSO, incoming students provided community outreach service to the neighbors of the College.
More than 70 NSO student leaders led the first-year students to more than 40 locations throughout the city of Springfield and engaged in community service work. Students were joined by Cooper and Center for Service and Leadership Director Charlene Elvers, in helping community members with painting, yard work, and outdoor clean-up throughout the city.
