BETHANY, W.Va. (Aug. 15, 2024) – Bethany College officially opened the 2025–26 academic year by welcoming the Class of 2029 during its annual Matriculation Ceremony, a tradition that has connected generations of students for more than a century.
As part of the ceremony, the newest Bethanians took part in the historic walk through the Oglebay Gates, a symbolic passage first observed in 1869. Originally the College’s main entrance, the gates serve as a powerful symbol of beginnings and endings. Students will pass through them together only twice: once on this day, and again at graduation.
In his remarks, Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi reflected on the meaning behind the tradition.
“As you sit here in historic Old Main after walking as a class through Oglebay Gates, I hope you can see the power of this tradition, which aims to create lasting memories and meaningful connections, while reminding you of the goal ahead – graduation.”
Caridi reassured families in attendance that Bethany’s commitment to students extends far beyond the first day. “Let me take a moment to assure you that we have your students’ backs – not just today in Old Main but every day at Bethany College. It’s a promise you can count on. Always.”
The Matriculation ceremony also featured the signing of the Matriculation Book, where students ink their names alongside those of generations of Bethany alumni, committing to pursue their education with diligence, integrity, and service to others.
Caridi challenged the Class of 2029 to fully embrace the opportunities ahead. “We ask all this of you because now more than ever, our society needs future leaders who are fueled by integrity, creativity, and resilience – the kind of graduates Bethany College produces and the same graduates who will embrace our founder’s call to promote the creation of a world of worth and value wherever they go.”
The afternoon concluded with an enthusiastic welcome into the Bethany family.
“So let’s be blessings to one another as we open a new year together. And to the class before me today, welcome to your new home, to finding lifelong friends, to being full-fledged members of the Bethany family, to getting engaged in campus life, to networking, and to taking advantage of everything our College offers.”
With the gates now behind them and four years of discovery ahead, the Class of 2029 begins its Bethany journey supported by a community dedicated to their growth, achievement, and success.
If you missed the ceremony, or want to relive the special moments, you can watch the recording on our Facebook page. Photos can be viewed on Flickr.
About Bethany College
Founded in 1840, Bethany College is a private liberal arts college in Bethany, West Virginia. With a commitment to academic excellence, a strong sense of community, and a rich history of tradition, Bethany College prepares students for lifelong success through a comprehensive education that emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and service.
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