Two campus leaders—the College president and the student body president—welcomed new students to Saint Mary’s on Friday in O’Laughlin Auditorium. It was the morning after the new Belles’ first night on campus, a night that is nearly sleepless.

Saint Mary's College President Carol Ann Mooney '72
Saint Mary's College President
Carol Ann Mooney '72 

President Carol Ann Mooney ’72 recalled her own jitters when she arrived on campus 43 years ago. “I do remember that in spite of my nerves, I knew I had made the right choice,” she told the students and their families. “I knew my decision to attend Saint Mary’s College would change my life.”

Mooney urged the students not to waste a moment of their four years at Saint Mary’s. “I encourage you to take chances, to stretch yourselves, and to try things that may seem beyond your reach,” she said. “Don’t just sit back and absorb—be an active participant in your education: ask questions, probe for answers.” To read Mooney’s entire speech, click here.

 

 Student Body President Nicole Gans '12
Student Body President
Nicole Gans '12

Student Body President Nicole Gans ’12 gave her welcome message in a poem:

Class of 2015 Belles, I’d like to welcome you home!
To the beautiful Avenue and the Golden Dome

Maybe right now you are nervous or scared
To start on your college journey, feeling so unprepared

Moving in was crazy, and kind of a mess
But now you’re all settled in, so you passed your first test

But let me tell you firsthand, you have no need to worry
Everyone’s in the same place, you’ll make friends in a hurry!

Those friends will quickly turn into your family
You just gained 1,600 new sisters, just wait and see

We are all here to help you and want only your best
To your success here at SMC, our efforts we’ll invest

Passionate teachers who will change how you see
The world all around you, their guidance is key

So please get involved, there is so much to do
Clubs that will allow you to discover the leader in you!

Work hard in classes, attendance is the key!
Everyone can share in your 8 a.m. misery

But remember to have fun, it’s not all about the books
Impress all the boys with your charm and good looks

The next four years will fly by quicker than you can believe
That I am entering my last year is something I can’t yet conceive

So cherish each minute and enjoy every day
Grow and explore in every possible way

Take chances, find risks, don’t be afraid to fail
Take advantage of every opportunity here and blaze your own trail

So give dad a hug, tell mom not to cry,
You are in great hands after your goodbyes

I wish you good luck, and a fabulous year
As you now embark on your Saint Mary’s College career