After taking the library elevator up to the seventh floor, the freshmen class officially joined the ranks of the ULM Honors Program. The program held its annual pizza social on Wednesday. The event served as a welcome to campus for freshmen and returning members. Complete with pizza and board games, the social kicked off the back-to-school season.
Members of the Honors Council immediately greeted students, ushering them into the long pizza lines. Laughter echoed throughout the ballroom as students lost games of Jenga or forced their pals to draw five in Uno.
Once council members served everyone their fill of pizza, the Honors Council made introductions. Each representative shared their name, major and hometown with students. The council represents students from all walks of life.
Then students competed in introduction bingo. Members walked around, sharing facts about themselves. Students ended up leaving the event with new friends and a full stomach.
According to program director Joshua Stockley, the Honors Program celebrated a milestone with a record-setting freshmen class. A total of 132 freshmen joined the Honors Program, increasing 38% from last year.
“The first thing that stands out is the strength of the freshmen class; however, and equally exciting, is their diversity, enthusiasm, leadership and future potential,” Stockley said.
New students radiated excitement as they look forward to spending the next four years as members.
“I joined the Honors Program because I have ambitious dreams, and the Honors Program will help me achieve them,” Kelly Lohman, a freshman biology major said.
Returning students also encouraged others to become members of the program. The program fosters friendships as well as a love of learning.
“My friends encouraged me to join the Honors Program, knowing I wanted to be challenged,” George Khawas, the honors social media director, said.
Members can look forward to events such as study sessions and painting parties.
