Students introduced to campus during Quest orientation program

Bondurant Auditorium was again buzzing with activity on June 30 as Radford University opened its third session of Quest.

Front and center of the 700-plus crowd of students and their guests were three women eager to begin the two-day orientation program for new freshman students and their families.

Incoming freshman Logan Southard sat between her mother, Donna Southard, and her grandmother, Shirley Schmelyun. The trio traveled from Sykesville, Maryland, where Logan and some of her high school friends decided Radford University would be the best fit for their futures.

"I'm looking forward to starting a new chapter of my life," Logan said.

She hopes to major in pre-health biology and to eventually pursue a career as a coroner.

President Penelope W. Kyle addressed the Quest audience with advice for both parents and students.

The President rallied students to make a commitment to complete their undergraduate degrees in four years or less.

"And parents, we need you to participate, too," Kyle said. "We want you to be a partner with us."

President Kyle explained the numerous construction and renovation projects on campus, such as the Recreation and Wellness Center, and the benefits students will reap from attending a university committed to small classroom sizes and supportive faculty/student relationships.

Kyle-Quest-2014

On Monday, Radford University opened its third session of Quest as President Penelope W. Kyle addressed the Quest audience with advice for both parents and students.

"When people talk to me about Radford, one of the first things they say is 'I hear that you have an atmosphere there where the faculty really get to know the students,' and that is exactly the type of school we are," Kyle said.
Kyle also encouraged students to take advantage of the many student organizations, a piece of advice Donna Southard hopes her daughter will take to heart.

"I really want her to become involved," Southard said of her daughter. "I think it's going to be such a great opportunity for her."

Mom doesn't have to worry: "I'm going to play club volleyball," Logan said.

Quest sessions will continue through July. The comprehensive RU orientation program provides parents and students an overview of university culture, resources and services.

For more information on Quest, visit www.radford.edu/quest.

Jul 1, 2014