More than 200 new students join fellow Roadrunners on campus this semester.

January 23, 2025

Liz Mendicino ’26

The winter wonderland that Ramapo College becomes as the weather gets colder served as a picturesque backdrop for one of the college’s most coveted traditions. Arching serves as a marker of new beginnings, welcoming new students to Ramapo and bidding farewell as they begin their journeys post-graduation. As new students make their way through the arch amidst the snow, they are immediately welcomed on the other side by fellow students, faculty, staff, and Rocky the Roadrunner. Thus, the spring semester has officially kicked off! The beginning of the spring semester signals a new start, as new Roadrunners make their first trek through the iconic maroon structure. Even though it was a cold day, students enjoyed a warm welcome to the tight-knit community for which Ramapo College is known. 

During Arching, new students walk up Mansion Road, flanked by family, friends, and Ramapo community members, who clap and cheer as they begin their journey at Ramapo College. President Jebb shakes hands with every student as they walk under the Havemeyer Arch.

“We’re all here because we believe in the transformative power of education to strengthen communities, build leaders, and effect positive change. We believe in inclusion, in the idea that our diverse perspectives make us stronger,” said President Cindy Jebb in her welcome email titled Making 2025 Count.

Students and their families attend New Student Assembly after Arching, where they listen to messages delivered by administrators and students and gather for a welcome reception before the semester begins the very next day.

There are so many ways to make this year count. For starters, Winter Welcome Week, jam-packed with activities, is an opportunity for new and returning students to connect, get involved, and have fun. Students can attend the Involvement fair to learn about the more than 100 clubs and organizations on campus (and start their own if it doesn’t already exist), learn more about fraternity and sorority life at Meet the Greeks, get rowdy and cheer for our NCAA Division III athletics teams in the Bradley Center, or join the College Programming Board for a variety of exciting events! Students will have the opportunity to engage with faculty at events throughout the semester as well. The possibilities are endless for new and continuing students…for Roadrunners…as they pave their path at Ramapo. Best wishes for a great semester!