Tusculum University students start first day of classes

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) – Students at Tusculum University started their first day of classes on Monday. Over 1,100 students enrolled in the university this year with 300 new students.

Dr. Scott Hummel, President of Tusculum University, told News Channel 11 the university welcomed new students with team-building events and activities.

“They’re immediately greeted by people in the community, but then we had a Pioneer ceremony,” said Dr. Hummel. “They break down in their particular groups, they had a showdown, just a whole lot of competitions and fun.”

Jerry Ricker, a junior at the university, said he was able to help welcome the new students and show them around campus.

“I worked with all the transfers, and we just got them introduced to the school, introduced each other and helped them make friends,” said Ricker.

The university has two new programs this year, pre-athletic training and a gaming design minor.

“We know the growth of video gaming, and so there’s a lot that goes into it from art to design to computers,” said Hummel. “It’s almost like an interdisciplinary minor that prepares students to be able to go into that very growing and dynamic field.”

An initiative to get students involved with the community is a new requirement for students this year.

“Each student has to be involved in at least three mission engagements that really reinforces why they are here and the outcomes and benefits of the Tusculum education,” said Hummel.

Events and activities will be happening on campus all week until Aug. 30.

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