Baptist University Kicks Off Fall 2022 Trimester
Baptist University's campus has come alive again, with a slew of students eager to begin classes for the Fall 2022 Trimester. Settling into residence life kickstarted this process as new and returning students were greeted with Welcome Week events designed to foster bonding and community formation. Students were able to participate in a variety of events during and between classes to help welcome students to their home away from home.
Students were able to take advantage of the Baptist community, tasty snacks, and giveaways at events like the Res Life Mixer and the Outdoor Lawn Concert. However, this did not overshadow the numerous success-building and faith-based events that took place.
Welcome Chapel
The year began with the university's traditional Welcome Chapel Ceremony, led by Karen Smith, Director of the Office of Faith and Service, who ushered in the new year with gratitude and worship. This was the first Welcome Chapel sponsored by planned by the leaders of the student-led organization Brother’s and Sister’s in Christ (BASIC). Instead of the traditional setup of being in the chapel, this event was held in the Campus Hub Gym with the usage of tables. The tables played an intricate part in the event with student leaders hoping to begin to build community while participating in small group discussions with faculty, staff, and other students.
“I decided to end the service by introducing the scripture of the year, Isaiah 43:1-3, to remind all attendees that God is with us through the fire and troubled waters and calls out to us by our name,” says Smith. “It was a good and reflective time for all.”
Student Transitions Coordinator, Sarah Biggs posing with Vice President of Finance of the Student Government Association, Shania Fields holding a giveaway t-shirt that features the University’s motto.
Cookout for Future Men in Health Care
It goes without saying that women make up the vast majority of the healthcare workforce. With that in mind, organizing events to inspire future male health care students is important to Baptist University. At this cookout, students were able to network with peers, alumni, faculty members, and staff to gain knowledge and potential mentors in the industry. And, what better way to inspire future students than over barbecue?
Student Success Coach DeAundre Williams conducting a mock interview with a student.
Dive Into BHSU Academics
New and returning students were able to hear from a panel of Baptists’ faculty about academic and professional expectations. Students were advised on themes including effective communication, avoiding plagiarism, attendance and punctuality, etc., laying the groundwork for their success not just at Baptist University but also in a professional work context.
Meet Your Faculty: Chaotic Coffee
Students were able to build relationships over a Frappuccino while meeting and/or catching up with their professors and other faculty members.
Blue Healer Beach Bash at the Library
At this gathering, Library Services threw a beach-themed party, so there was no shushing going on. The event provided students with the chance to interact with MidSouth Therapy Dogs, take a selfie at a tropical selfie station, and enter to win prizes like beach towels, suntan lotion, and more. The opportunity to register for a free Memphis Public Library card and learn about the library's services made this fun event also instructive.
(Left)Students are seen petting a MidSouth Therapy Dog. (Right)Students seen with their leis to support the Beach Bash theme of the library’s event.
Walkin’ In Memphis
Taking a step in Marc Cohns’ blue suede shoes, students were able to explore the city of Memphis with the guide of Back Beat Tours. Students had the opportunity to learn about history at well-known locations such as Beale Street, Elvis Presley's early home, Victorian Village, I Am A Man Plaza, and the Lorraine Motel before closing up at Central BBQ.
(Left)Students seen looking at one of the Victorian homes during the Walkin’ In Memphis tour. (Right) Students are learning about the I Am A Man movement history.
Student Organization Fair
There are numerous student-led organizations at Baptist University. A few of the organizations were featured at the Student Organization Fair. Students were encouraged to join organizations such as Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC), National Student Nurses Association (NSNA), Allied Health Student Association (AHSA), Colleges Against Cancer, Cultural Exchange Club, Interprofessional Student Association, Active Minds, Student Government Association (SGA), and others. Students in attendance were given a reusable BHSU tote and were able to shop for some campus gear with the Pop-up Shop.
(Left) Students interacting with student-led organizations presentations. (Right)Students at the Active Minds booth stand with University Counselor Caryn Schmitz.
Blue Healer Student Success Center Open House
All students were invited to an Open House sponsored by the student success center personnel so they may mingle with the student success coaches. Students also had the chance to win prizes, refreshments, and snap a selfie with Hartley, the campus mascot, during this event.
(Left)Student taking a photo with Hartley in front of a green screen. (Right) Dean of Student Success Kim Cunningham gives a speech welcoming new staff and students.
Student Retreat
Taking a trip to the Country Place Retreat Center in Moscow, TN, the student retreat was a time of caring for the students in a holistic way: mind, body, and soul. The mind was challenged and comforted through small group discussions, music, and art. The body was given nourishing and delicious food. Also, small group challenges ignited the competitive spirit within the future healthcare providers. And the soul was consoled through the study of God’s word, especially when examining Isaiah 43:1-3.
Karen Smith states, “The participants were reminded that God walks before them, behind them, in front of them. Never leaving our side because God loves them so. Beautiful and meaningful pieces of art were created by the students reflecting on the scriptures and music experienced during the weekend. It was a wonderful weekend.”
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