Campbell welcomes freshmen with Medallion Convocation

     A cheering Campbell University faculty dressed in full academic regalia formed two lines through which nearly 1,000 new freshmen passed Sunday, August 21. The procession, which took place in front of D. Rich Memorial Building, marked the finale to the university’s opening Medallion Convocation in which freshmen are welcomed with a medallion engraved with the university seal and the slogan: “To the stars through difficulties.”
     “This medallion is imprinted with the Campbell seal,” explained President Jerry M. Wallace. “On that seal is an open Bible, a cross and the Campbell motto, all placed in a circle indicating no beginning and no end.”
      The medallions are presented by Campbell alumni from all walks of life. One of the purposes of the Medallion ceremony is to provide a visible link between entering students and graduates, according to Dr. Dwaine Greene, vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “We are filled with persons who care deeply about our students,” Greene said. “The medallion is also symbolic of the Campbell philosophy that great success can come with great determination and effort.”
     Wallace encouraged students to take advantage of one of Campbell’s greatest resources—a concerned and caring faculty. “Please do not let this place be like a shopping center where you go in and get your milk and bread and leave,” Wallace said. “Within five minutes of this place, there are persons who can shape your life and walk with you on your journey.”
     Freshman, David John Hailey, of Raleigh, N.C., was impressed by the ceremony. “It was a great experience,” he said. “Campbell is a great Christian school based on great Christian values. That’s why I’m here.” Hailey, who is the son of Dr. David Hailey, pastor of Hayes Barton Baptist Church in Raleigh, plans to major in music.
     Other freshmen are taking different career paths. Dunn resident Karen Smith, whose parents Kent and Lisa Smith are also Campbell graduates, would like to become a pharmacist. “Campbell has a really good pharmacy program. That and the fact that both my parents attended Campbell helped me make up my mind to come here,” she said.
     Kimberly McBrayer, of Fuquay-Varina, grew up wanting to be a veterinarian until she developed an interest in missions. “I decided that I really wanted to help people rather than animals,” she said. “Being a doctor definitely fit better with my plans to be a missionary.”
      One of the primary reasons Kimberly came to Campbell is the strong biology/ pharmacy programs. “Everything I’ve heard about it is good,” she said.

Photo Copy: Campbell University’s Class of 2009 is cheered by the faculty after the Medallion Convocation Sunday, August 21. The convocation makes the beginning of the students’ college career. (Photo by Bennett Scarborough)
 

Bulletin 0051-8/23/05