CANTON -- Members of the Class of 2028 begin their St. Lawrence adventure as one of the most academically distinguished cohorts in the University's history. Tied with last year's class for the record-high average GPA of 93, and with nearly half graduating in the top 10 percent of their high school classes, these new Laurentians are ready to explore, learn, and make a significant impact within our dynamic and supportive campus community.

St. Lawrence University welcomed the following new students: Jonavin Ayen of Gouverneur, Ella Bellinger of Brasher Falls, Trystan Biller of Rensselaer Falls, Lois Blewett of Ogdensburg, Lola Buckley of Potsdam, Scout Canary of Canton, Charlotte Colello, Elianah Dane, Perelandra Dane of Madrid, Elena Dickinson of Harrisville, Sawyer Francis of Brasher Falls, Kinnon Gillie of Canton, Emma Hubbard of Potsdam, Alison Jarvis of Brasher Falls, Amalia Kanitz of DeKalb Junction, Isabel Meagher of Harrisville, Grace Shea of Ogdensburg, Koral Tarbell-Mitchell of Hogansburg, and Ariane Uwamukuza of Canton.First-year students come from 30 states and journeyed to the North Country from 40 countries-from Armenia, Australia and Austria to Uganda and Venezuela. Among them are students from 16 of the 18 United World Colleges, with a particularly strong representation from UWC East Africa's Arusha and Moshi campuses.

The Class of 2028 brings a wide range of talents and interests, with a strong commitment to serving others and leading by example. A remarkable 87 percent have held leadership roles in high school, and 73 percent have participated in community service and fundraising efforts.

President Kate Morris congratulated the high-achieving Class of 2028 and transfer students (who earned an average 3.4 GPA from their previous institutions).

"Each of you brings unique strengths, perspectives, and achievements that have led you here," she said. "Your presence in this community speaks to your potential and the promise we see in you."

The Class of 2028 represents an impressive mix of talents and skills, including:

90% participated in high school sports, including state championship appearances in 12 different sports.
40% of the class has been recruited to compete for the Saints.
55% have been involved in academic organizations, honor societies, and research.
29% have pursued passions in art, music, theater, and creative writing. Their creative achievements include award-winning photography, film festival participation, and contributions to podcasts and essays.
29% of the class have engaged in wilderness experiences and outdoor activities across the country and around the world.
With 34 percent of the class expressing interest in the sciences, 25 percent in business, economics, and finance, 18 percent in the social sciences, 13 percent in the arts, humanities, and interdisciplinary areas, and 11 percent eager to explore before committing to a specific field, the Class of 2028 is ready to take advantage of the opportunities that await them.

"You will be amazed at what you can accomplish here," said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Florence Hines, who signed each and every one of the students' acceptance letters.

Hines went on to reassure the group that even if their days aren't all picture-perfect, there will always be someone available to listen and offer support. St. Lawrence's First-Year Program is one of the oldest living/learning programs in the nation that envelops new college students in a vital web of academic and social resources.

"It isn't easy to tell people what you are dealing with, but you know what? The minute you do, this community wraps its arms around you," Hines added. "We will remind you that you've got this. We've got this. And even more important, we've got you."

Fall semester classes began on Aug. 28.