The excitement was palpable as car after car, each brimming with personal belongings, inched through Jacksonville University’s gates. Drivers waved and honked at student greeters, who responded with enthusiastic cheers as the Ripcurrent Band’s lively tunes filled the air. The Class of 2028 was officially moving in.
Move-in day has always been a hallmark event at Jacksonville University, but this year’s celebration marked a historical milestone. The incoming freshman class is the university’s largest to date, with 774 talented students hailing from 42 states and 17 countries. The growth mirrors the university’s broader success, as graduate and undergraduate enrollment continues to rise and Jacksonville University enjoys record-setting retention rates for the third consecutive year—a testament to the quality and caliber of students drawn to the institution.
To call move-in day a community effort would be an understatement. As the steady stream of families flowed through the residence halls, hauling minifridges, books, and everything-you-can-imagine, their efforts were met with an outpouring of support (and muscle) from student-athletes, and faculty and staff.
In between trips to the dorms, parents gathered in small groups, sharing mixed emotions as they watched their children embark on this new, significant chapter of life.
“It’s very exciting — and emotional!” said Stacy Stucker, her voice catching as she stood beside her freshman daughter, Ava. “These have been the fastest eighteen years of our life.”
For others, the day was filled with a bittersweet realization. “It’s super surreal.
This is the last kid, the baby,” reflected Natalie Marcano-Sidberry. “I’m probably
going to cry when I leave here!”
University administration was on-site helping first-year students move in. Senior
Vice President and Director of Athletics Alex Ricker-Gilbert hauled boxes and bags
in Botts Hall. Dr. Kristie Gover, Senior Vice President and Dean of Students, along
with Dr. Lisa Sutherland, Executive Director of the Honors and Scholars Program, greeted
families and helped facilitate a warm welcome.
“It’s a little bit hectic adjusting, but it’s helpful that they have all of these people because we don’t know where we’re going,” joked freshman Madison Kelly.
Not every parent was feeling sentimental. “It’s a four-hour drive. I can come up here every weekend to annoy him,” Jasmin Schimann said with a laugh.
Whether they were holding back tears or planning their next visit, every parent worked up a sweat. As the Class of 2028 begins to settle in on campus, as the newest members of the JU family, the emotions of move-in day signified a new beginning that goes beyond unpacking boxes. It's the start of a journey filled with new aspirations, friendships, and experiences that will shape the next chapter of their lives.
