Bluffton University welcomed its 123rd class of students as official members of the campus community during Opening Convocation on August 30.
“Our faculty and staff commit to serve as your teachers and guides this year and in the years to come,” explained President Jane Wood. “We join with you in this journey of knowledge and, together, we all stand as mutual learners in this community of respect.”
During Convocation, 2006 Bluffton graduate Bethny Ricks shared “Mirror, Mirror.”
Dr. Jane Wood, president of Bluffton University, will present the Forum “Authentically Calling In: Seeking Truth with the Ear of the Heart,” at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6 in Yoder Recital Hall.
During the presentation, Dr. Wood will discuss ways students, faculty and staff can focus on truth by inviting or “calling in” one another for authentic conversations in the pursuit of “responsible citizenship” and “service to all peoples” as outlined in Bluffton’s mission.
Classes at Bluffton University start on Monday, August 29 and the number of university students will jump back up to some 750 or so pedestrians, drivers, shoppers, etc. in the village.
On August 26, first-year students at Bluffton University moved in and began taking part in Welcome Weekend activities. On Saturday and Sunday, the other residential students move back to campus. Fall student-athletes and campus leaders moved in earlier.
This summer, Grant Klinger ’25, a medical laboratory science major [at Bluffton University] confirmed his career goals and gained hands-on experience in his field. Klinger worked full-time as a laboratory processor at Blanchard Valley Health System in Findlay, Ohio.
Bethny Ricks, a speaker, author and leadership expert, will be the featured speaker at 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 30 in Yoder Recital Hall as Bluffton University welcomes the class of 2026 during its Opening Convocation.
Ricks will share “Mirror, Mirror,” which provides an unconventional perspective on life, self-acceptance and the persistent pursuit of happiness, especially when intentions collide with the unpredictable parts of life.
The Bluffton University President’s Ambassadors Program has been recognized with a 2022 Independent College Advancement Associates (ICAA) Program of Excellence Award.
Robin Bowlus, vice president of enrollment management and advancement, and Claire Clay, director of public relations and enrollment operations, attended the conference in Cleveland this summer where the award was presented. Clay leads the President’s Ambassadors program which is currently comprised of 28 Bluffton sophomores, juniors and seniors who represent a variety of majors and campus involvement.
