The days were carefully designed to give our newest Bobcats the opportunity to understand what makes Quinnipiac special — from academics and athletics to student experience and residential life.

More than 1,600 admitted students attended the university’s campuses this weekend — from virtually every corner of the country, including Washington state, California, Texas and Florida.

“I’d like to welcome you with open arms, and with surrounding sunshine, to our campus and to our Bobcat family,” President Judy Olian told the admits and their families. “We’re thrilled to have all of you with us today. A big shout-out to each of you for your acceptance to Quinnipiac. It’s a terrific achievement and you should be very proud.”

She lauded the students who were accepted from the more than 18,400 undergraduate applications received this year.

“You were selected from a very impressive group who have many achievements — in and out of the classroom,” she said. “You’re about to embark on what might be the most exhilarating and defining chapter in your life. And you’ll join a tradition that began nearly 100 years ago … and over time we’ve grown into a comprehensive, nationally recognized university that is admired and loved by many. And we’ve always had ambition, purpose and determination that has continued to build our institution, and accelerate its progress.”

Throughout the day, cow bells clanged in celebration as admitted students committed to Quinnipiac. Boomer enjoyed smiling for selfies and challenging students to various lawn games.

The Legends acapella group demonstrated why they’re nationally ranked in a lively performance during the welcome ceremony.

Nicholas Campanelli ’22, president of the Student Government Association, was one of several dozen student leaders who spoke with the admitted students.

“I remember being in your shoes four years ago,” he said during a Q&A. “It was exhilarating. I still remember my Admitted Student Day like it was yesterday — and the reasons I chose to come to Quinnipiac. Throughout my time here, I have come to recognize that Quinnipiac offers so much more than I could have ever imagined — and that our potential is inhibited only by the depths of our imaginations.”

Highlights of the day included more information about:

• The expansive strategic partnership with one of Connecticut’s most expansive healthcare systems, Hartford HealthCare that will benefit students throughout schools and disciplines.

• The nearly complete state-of-the-art, 60,000-square-foot Recreation and Wellness Center, which will contain the latest exercise and fitness facilities, a juice bar, rock climbing wall, a demo kitchen to showcase healthy eating, and a rooftop deck and outdoor gathering spaces to connect with nature.

• The $244 million South Quad development, which will add 3 buildings to the Mount Carmel Campus during the 2024-25 academic year – a new School of Business, an academic classroom and laboratory building, and a 417-bed residence hall.

• The new eSports Lab on the York Hill Campus, an exciting space for game design students, casual gamers and the reigning MAAC Championship eSports team.

“For those of you who haven’t yet made your decision on college: This is a big one — probably one of the biggest you’ve ever made,” Olian told the students. “I can tell you after more than four decades working in higher education, it’s about selecting the school that’s ‘right for you’ — where you feel that special spark, that special connection, where you can see yourself thriving. I certainly hope Quinnipiac becomes that place for you – but whatever you decide, I wish you much growth and success, discovery of yourself, what you love, what you’re good at, some great friends for life and a healthy dose of fun along the way.”