New Marlins and their families kicked off their college experience during Marlin Nation Orientation.
Welcoming the First Class of Batten University
New Marlins and their families kicked off their college experience during Marlin Nation Orientation.
Starting college is a milestone filled with excitement, anticipation, and a few nerves. Marlin Nation Orientation is designed to make that transition a little easier, giving new students—and their families—the opportunity to connect with the Marlin community before the first day of classes.
On June 26, we welcomed our very first class of incoming Batten University students during the inaugural June Orientation session, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the University.
New Marlins and their families traveled from near and far to experience life on campus and begin building connections with classmates, faculty and staff. The day began with a welcome session featuring remarks from President Scott D. Miller, Assistant Vice President for Campus Life Jen Cohen, and Assistant to the Senior Vice President Jana Cowan, who officially welcomed the Class of 2030.
Throughout the day, Orientation Leaders guided students through a variety of informative and engaging sessions designed to prepare them for the transition to college. Students and their families attended presentations on residence life, financial aid, and making memories in Marlin Nation. They also had the opportunity to learn about on-campus employment opportunities by visiting the Work and Learn table.
Attendees also explored Bob Marlin's Boardwalk, where campus departments shared resources, answered questions, and introduced students to the many opportunities available at the University. During “Marlin Mania,” the new Marlins enjoyed outdoor games, free Kona Ice, plushie stuffing, and plenty of opportunities to connect with their future classmates before the start of the fall semester.
The day culminated with the Marlin Nation Celebration at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, located on our campus, where students and their families enjoyed music, dancing, and raffle prizes. The evening concluded with special interest programs, including sessions for Intercollegiate Athletics, the BSN Sentara College of Health Sciences program, theatre auditions, Beacon Scholars, residence hall tours, and Virginia MOCA tours.
We look forward to welcoming even more future Marlins during the second Orientation session on June 29 before students return to campus in August for College 101.
To the newest members of our community, welcome home! We can't wait to see all you will accomplish as the very first class of Batten University.