Link 1995 10 (Vol. 45, No. 3).pdf - DRC Home - Wilmington College

Class of 1999 Is Rock Solid
WC's new president, Dan DiBiasio,
said he empathizes with members of the
freshman class, as he has been experiencing
many of the same emotions associated with
leaving "home," entering a new environment
and feeling a great sense of anticipation
for what has the potential to be one of
the greatest journeys of his life.
In addressing freshmen, transfer students
and parents at the annual New Student
Convocation, DiBiasio urged the new arrivals
to "be here now" and make the most of
this unique and special time in their lives.
"Only by entering into the problems,
the pains and the joys of every day are you
alive — in college or anywhere else," he
said. "If you are willing to give the present
a chance, then your future has a chance; but,
if you shun the reality about you even for the
loftiest dreams, you are not likely to enjoy
what is now or what is to come.
"I urge you to take full advantage of this
new era of opportunity and independence,"
DiBiasio added in calling 1995-96 a milestone
year in the College's history.
Wilmington, observing its 125th anniversary,
entered the new academic year with
what appears to be the largest crop of new
students ever. While figures were not expected
to be official until the first week of
October, College officials
expect the new
student enrollment to
eclipse the 337 freshmen
and transfers
hosted in 1971.
Also, the total enrollment
for all day and
evening programs on
the main campus
should exceed 1,000
students, and the Cincinnati Branch is anticipating
a record enrollment.
In addition to DiBiasio, the new students
were welcomed by Chris Stuhlmueller
'96, president of Student Government Association;
Jim Fleisher '63, an alumnus and
parent of a WC student; and Phil Calland
'59, who represented WC alumni.
Calland recalled sitting in the same
Boyd Auditorium 40 years ago during his
freshman orientation, and subsequent years
26 Fall 1995
Photo by Michael Lee
A new tradition was estcblished when each member of this year's freshman class signed
The Rock in front of College Hall.
when he heard Eleanoi Roosevelt, Pearl
Buck and former chief justice of the Supreme
Court Earl Warren.
He said that, although times may have
been different in 1955, some factors have
not changed.
"Only by entering into the problems,
the pains and the joys of every
day are you alive — in college or
anywhere else. I urge you to take
full advantage of this new era of
opportunity and independence."
— Dan DiBiasio
"Wilmington
College still has
dedicated, enthusiastic
faculty who
bring a wealth of
experiences and
encourage students
to learn;
~ ~ c l a s s e s are still
taught by profs
rather than teaching assistants; and small
classes still allow for individual attention,"
Calland said.
"Also, friendships tiat will last a lifetime
are still being formed among the student
body; students who get involved with
activities still have the opportunity to develop
leadership skills; and students who
prepare for class, attend regularly and take
good notes still learn more than those who
do not!"
Fleisher reflected on the great impact
his years at WC has had on his life as he
listed the reasons they chose Wilmington
for his son, Dan.
"You're not just a number at WC;
Wilmington provides a quality education;
and Wilmington College treats students,
parents, families and the community with
respect and dignity," he said in exhorting
the students to embrace the WC experience.
"Life at WC is a song — sing it. Life at
WC is a game — play it. Life at WC is a
challenge — meet it. Life at WC is a dream
— realize it. Life at WC is love — enjoy it!"
Stuhlmueller, who said the strong relationship
that students have with the entire
campus community is one of Wilmington's
unique characteristics, urged his fellow students
to get involved and go out of their way
to meet people.
"If you do this, I promise you that you
will love Wilmington College — you will
be trapped here," he said. "You'll be calling
this place 'home' before you know it!"
— by Randy Sarvis