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University of Jamestown Welcomes 306 Freshmen at Annual Convocation, Celebrates Virtue and Community

Jamestown, ND (09/10/2025) — University of Jamestown officially welcomed 306 freshmen at its annual convocation Sept. 4 in DeNault Auditorium, blending campus tradition with the energy of today's students.

Kirstie Dobson, director of campus ministries, opened the ceremony with a reflection on guidance and purpose.

President Polly Peterson thanked faculty for their commitment to holistic education, saying, "You are a true example of superior guidance and education of the whole person. Thank you for the work that you do and for believing in the vision of UJ."

Margaux Kautzmann, student senate president, encouraged new and returning students to make the most of their time at Jamestown.

"While making these memories, please slow down and smell the roses. Appreciate the independence and opportunities that you have here," Kautzmann said. "Surround yourself with people that want you to succeed-who will make you a better person. You have started on a long path to the rest of your life, and the next four years of that journey are going to fly by."

Dr. Michelle Solensky, vice president for academic affairs, introduced the Leadertown initiative and emphasized the importance of practicing virtue in daily life. "Virtues are not lofty ideals that feel out of reach. Virtues are habits-patterns of thinking and acting that we can practice every day," Solensky said.

She highlighted wisdom, courage and excellence as three of the six virtues that make up the University of Jamestown's character initiative.

"Wisdom fills as you ask questions and listen carefully. Courage is what allows you to learn from mistakes. Excellence is about effort and growth, showing up fully even when the work is hard."

Maryn Schneider, representing the Class of 2029, spoke about her class's excitement and commitment. "Although our past has shaped us, we are prepared to try new things in these challenging situations-it will help us define who each of us will become. We vow to be fully immersed in the Jimmie experience and continue the excellence in tradition that has been established for years."

President Peterson presented the Knight Award to Elias Harris, Class of 2026, a criminal justice major with a minor in English. In January, Harris was the first to notice and report a fire in the campus cafeteria. He is also recognized for achievements in academics, athletics and the arts.

"His quick thinking and sense of duty reflect the spirit of this award," Peterson said.

Morgan Palmer, director of alumni relations, presented the Alumni Medallion to Rachel (Perish) Heuchert '16 and Samuel Heuchert '16.

Rachel, a licensed professional counselor, and Sam, a cybersecurity assessor for the Department of Defense, are college sweethearts and addressed students with candor and encouragement.

"We could not have predicted the journey nor the outcome when we were in your seats," Rachel said. "Our encouragement to you is to be patient while you're in school." Sam added, "We like to think about stewardship as how we live out our priorities. We try to adopt the motto, 'the magic of ordinary days.'"

The couple also recognized their faculty mentors, UJ Chief Information Officer and Professor Chris Hoke and retired faculty member Dr. Irene Posh.

The ceremony concluded with gratitude for all who help shape the Jimmie experience-faculty, staff, families and peers. The University of Jamestown, founded in 1883, continues its mission to prepare students for leadership, service and lifelong learning.

About University of Jamestown

University of Jamestown is consistently ranked as a top regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883 as Jamestown College, UJ is a private, Christian liberal arts institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. At the bachelor's level, students can pursue degrees in the arts, sciences, and nursing. The university also grants master's degrees in business, education, leadership, technology and clinical counseling. Additionally, UJ provides doctoral programs in clinical research, character in leadership, and physical therapy. To expand access to its high-quality education, University of Jamestown launched UJ Accelerated, its online division, which delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners across diverse settings. For more information about academic offerings, campus life, and online programs, please visit UJ.edu.

Media Attachments

University of Jamestown Student Elias Harris, left, received the Knight Award from President Polly Peterson at Opening Convocation Sept. 4, 2025.

Rachel (Perish) Heuchert ’16 and Samuel Heuchert ’16 received the Young Alumni Medallion from University of Jamestown during the 2025 Opening Convocation Sept. 4 in the Reiland Fine Arts Center. Recipients of the medal choose members of UJ’s staff and faculty as mentors; Samuel chose UJ Chief Information Officer Chris Hoke and Rachel chose retired faculty member Dr. Irene Posh. Pictured, from left, are Posh, Rachel Heuchert, Samuel Heuchert, UJ President Polly Peterson, and Hoke.

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