Misericordia University Welcomes Second-Largest Class in History at Convocation and Move-In Day

Misericordia University Welcomes Second-Largest Class in History at Convocation and Move-In Day

DALLAS, Pa. — Misericordia University officially welcomed 489 first-year students—the second-largest incoming class in the university’s history—on Thursday, August 21, during its annual Convocation and First-Year Student Move-In Day.

The day began with students and their families arriving on campus to move into residence halls, assisted by staff, faculty, and returning student volunteers. The festive atmosphere carried into the afternoon as the community gathered in the Wells Fargo Amphitheater for Convocation, the ceremony that formally marks the beginning of the academic year and welcomes new students into the Misericordia tradition.

University President Daniel J. Myers, Ph.D., along with members of the faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees, addressed the Class of 2029. Speakers encouraged students to embrace Misericordia’s values of service, leadership, and academic excellence as they begin their collegiate journey.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of the Mother Mary Catherine McGann Achievement Award to Asia Bijan Olieman ’17, Esq. Olieman, a nationally recognized social justice activist, attorney, and graduate of the Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program, was honored for her exceptional leadership, advocacy, and dedication to empowering individuals facing poverty and hardship.

Convocation concluded with Misericordia’s Alma Mater, symbolizing the new students’ entry into the university’s vibrant community. With the 2025–26 academic year underway, Misericordia looks forward to the accomplishments of its newest Cougars—one of the largest and most promising classes in the institution’s more than 100-year history.