Tusculum welcomes students to campus for new academic year

Excited new students received a warm welcome to the Tusculum University family as they moved in to their residence halls Friday, Aug. 14, in this traditional event marking another major milestone in their development.

Bailey Jenkins promoted the opportunity for Pioneers to run for the Student Government Association.

They were joined Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, by returning students who resumed their traditional on-campus living experience.

During the weekend, about 450 Pioneers moved into the various residence halls and apartments on the Greeneville campus. In addition, about 100 other students moved in earlier because of obligations to their athletic teams or other needs.

“This is a joyous time of year for the Tusculum family, and we were thrilled to welcome our Pioneers to campus,” said Dr. Scott Hummel, the university’s president. “These students are experiencing one of the best periods in their lives as they grow academically and socially in ways that will extend well past their graduation. We are honored to assist them on this journey.”

Dr. Hummel experienced move-in for the first time since he became president in February. Joining him were faculty and staff members as well as student leaders who helped new Pioneers and their parents successfully navigate the move-in process. They provided directions, transported parents in golf carts and supported the check-in process, all delivered with a smile.

Because of the global coronavirus pandemic, Tusculum administrators and housing leaders emphasized reducing on-campus housing density and dispersed students across more of the campus this year. The Facilities Management team spent additional time during the summer extensively cleaning the residence halls and the rest of campus.

The Office of Student Affairs prepared a detailed schedule that staggered move-in times to increase physical distancing. Students, faculty and staff members also wore face coverings during the process as an additional protective measure.

As part of the move-in process, students received a care package that included a face covering, hand sanitizer, a thermometer and a water bottle. These items align with the extensive safety protocols and procedures Tusculum enacted in a comprehensive plan to protect students, faculty and staff as much as possible from the coronavirus and to respond swiftly and appropriately to any cases that might develop.

Dr. Lisa Johnson-Neas, associate vice president of student affairs and retention and dean of students, said move-in weekend went smoothly with the collaboration of Student Affairs, Facilities Management, the Admission Department, the Athletic Department and Campus Safety.

“This team effort enabled us to be well-prepared to welcome our Pioneers to campus so they can enjoy the full collegiate experience,” Dr. Johnson-Neas said. “Having our students and faculty on our campus creates a synergistic effect and increases the energy level at Tusculum.”

Moving students into the residence halls was the first part of showcasing Tusculum’s active and experiential education. Student Affairs organized several activities as part of the Week of Welcome initiative, which enabled students to enjoy themselves and their fellow Pioneers while adhering to necessary precautions.

Events included outdoor activities, such as a trail walk, hikes, outdoor yoga, dodgeball, Spikeball and two-on-two beach volleyball. Students also had the opportunity to participate virtually in bingo and trivia night and explore possible interest in running for a seat in the Student Government Association.

“We are proud to add our newest Pioneers to our 226-year-old tradition of higher education and to see the faces of students who are continuing their studies at Tusculum,” Dr. Hummel said. “Later, these students will join the ranks of our distinguished alumni, who left their mark on Tusculum and are making a difference in the world today. We are focused on helping our current students become career-ready professionals who will be inspired to be civically engaged.”