BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Bluefield State University officially welcomed its newest students, along with the families and well-wishers who came to support them, during the annual Matriculation Ceremony, held Friday, August 15, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the auditorium of the Brown-Gilbert Basic Science Building.
The ceremony kicks off a weekend of activity as students move into campus housing through Sunday, preparing for the start of the Fall 2025 semester on Monday, August 18.
BSU President Darrin Martin addressed the incoming class of freshmen, speaking to the tradition, responsibility, and excitement that mark the beginning of their academic journey. The ceremony serves as the University’s formal reception for new students, symbolizing the shared commitment between students and the institution to uphold a standard of academic excellence.
During the program, students recited the Matriculation Oath and pledged to follow the Student Honor Code. As part of the oath, each student vowed, “…as a new student I will conduct myself with dignity, honesty and civility; support the mission and vision of the university; follow and support the student code of conduct; and dedicate myself to informed citizenship, community involvement and public service.”
President Martin also presented each student with the Matriculation Pin, bearing the University Seal designed in 1932 by Art Professor Joseph E. Dodd.
The seal depicts a kneeling coal miner and a maiden schoolteacher receiving the gift of knowledge from Athena, the goddess of wisdom, an enduring emblem of the University’s mission to empower students through education.
“The Matriculation Ceremony is more than a formality,” President Martin said. “It is a celebration of change, hope, and opportunity. Today, we recognize the promise each of these students holds, and we welcome them into a community dedicated to their success.”
For the new students and their families, the event marked an important milestone, one that honors the transition into college life and the lifelong partnership between student and university. As students continue moving into campus housing through Sunday, the excitement is building for the start of the Fall 2025 semester on Monday, August 18. Bluefield State University extends its heartfelt thanks to the families, friends, and well-wishers whose presence made this occasion even more meaningful.
