This August, I had the incredible opportunity to connect with over 300 incoming students at Lion Camp—a pivotal event designed to help new students transition smoothly into college life at Langston University. The energy at Lion Camp was contagious, and it was an honor to be part of this journey as we welcomed the next generation of Lions into our community.
Teaming up with VP Heath Burge, a dynamic speaker who passionately discussed the critical role of academic advisement, we held three engaging sessions at 2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm. Heath set the stage, and I emphasized the importance of building meaningful relationships with professors.
In today’s fast-paced world, this generation of students craves engagement and connection—something I’ve learned through years of research and speaking to youth organizations.
To bring this message to life, we introduced some icebreakers and even a lesson in Salsa dancing. I invited a few volunteers who had never danced Salsa before, and within 15 minutes, they were moving with confidence and rhythm. This exercise wasn’t just about learning to dance—it was about demonstrating how, with the proper guidance and encouragement, anyone can master new skills and build strong relationships. It’s a metaphor for the college experience: when we inject innovative and engaging teaching approaches, we change the trajectory of our students’ lives.
Lion Camp is more than just an introduction to campus; it’s the first step in forging the connections that will support our students throughout their academic journey. It’s about integrating them and their families into the Langston University community, ensuring they feel at home from day one. Students who attend Lion Camp get a firsthand experience of life on a college campus, meeting fellow Lions, Student Ambassadors, and the faculty and staff who will guide them.
I am blessed to have been a part of this transformative experience, and I look forward to continuing to build these connections with our students throughout the year. We set the foundation for their success at Langston University and beyond.
