On Thursday, January 8, Warner Pacific University welcomed new students at the Spring 2026 Knights Orientation. With 28 students attending, the day was full of connection, energy, and an unmistakable sense of purpose.
From the moment students checked in, they were met with warmth, joy, and hospitality. The energy in the room made it clear that these students were not just receiving information. They were receiving a first invitation into belonging.
Peer mentors, peer navigators, Ki Gaines, Director of Counseling, and Shimiki Stringer, Director of Residence Life and Student Engagement, helped shape the welcoming energy that defined the day. Alongside faculty and staff, they were present with students, offering conversation, encouragement, and a first sense of what it means to belong at Warner Pacific.
The day began with welcome remarks from Eric Colon-Cortes, Chief of Staff and Dean of Students, who also spoke on behalf of Interim President Doug Wade: “You are here on purpose. This is not by accident. We believe this is part of God’s plan for your life.” He reminded students that Warner Pacific is Christ-centered, Portland-grounded, and committed to supporting their growth: “You are here to unleash your purpose.”
The orientation program, led by Student Success & Engagement in collaboration with Academic Services, included sessions focused on equipping students for success, including college transitions, academic support, financial aid, and university policies. Peer mentors, peer navigators, faculty, and staff modeled what a connected and caring campus community looks like.
Ben Leavitt, Director of Academic Services, shared insights about the incoming class:
- Majors included Nursing, Sports Medicine, Biology, Business, and Education
- Students represented athletic teams like Baseball, Volleyball, Track and Field, and Cross Country
- While many came from Portland, Vancouver, Gresham, Tigard, and Hillsboro, others traveled from California and Florida
- More than 52% of the students speak two or more languages, reflecting the cultural and linguistic strength of our community
Guests were also present, including parents, spouses, and friends. One nursing student attended with their spouse and baby. The spouse, a WPU nursing alumna from the class of 2022, stood beside her partner as a powerful symbol of what this community can produce: graduates who carry purpose forward into families, professions, and communities.
After a shared meal, the community gathered in Schlatter Chapel for the Knight Induction Ceremony. It was a moment of sacred tradition and institutional pride. Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs, offered a pledge on behalf of the faculty to support and challenge students in their academic journey. Dr. Darilis Garcia, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, reflected on the significance of this moment and reminded students, “We will see you at graduation.”
The ceremony concluded with Dean Ober, Assistant Director of Campus Safety, who led the new class in learning the Warner Pacific Alma Mater: Hail Pacific, A.F. Gray. Ben Leavitt accompanied them on piano as voices filled the chapel, a fitting final note to a day rooted in purpose, belonging, and tradition.