UMO Welcomes Nearly 1,000 Students For New Academic Year

MOUNT OLIVE – Nearly 1,000 traditional students, both new and returning, are beginning the 2026–2027 academic year at the University of Mount Olive (UMO), making this one of the highest enrolling freshman classes in the University’s history. During move-in weekend, faculty, staff, current students, and volunteers welcomed families, unloaded cars, and helped new students settle into their residence halls. Community organizations, local businesses, and churches joined in the warm welcome, offering refreshments, gifts, and words of encouragement.

On Saturday, August 22, students gathered in the George and Annie Dail Kornegay Arena for the annual New Student Convocation. The ceremony welcomed students into the Trojan family and set the tone for the year ahead.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Burt Lewis and UMO Board of Trustees Chair Donnie Lassiter welcomed and shared advice with new Trojan students as they begin their UMO journey. Carolina Sound, UMO’s a cappella group, added to the celebration with a musical selection.

UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom encouraged students to recognize the influence they can have on others as they begin this new chapter. “Never forget the impact you can have on someone,” Croom said. “Even a small amount of light can make all the difference in the world, especially in a dark room. The people sitting around you can be your light, but if you don’t let that light shine, it serves no purpose. So, as you begin your post-high school journey, remember to make a difference in the lives of others.”

As the ceremony drew to a close, students took part in the University’s traditional candlelight ceremony and joined together to sing the alma mater. The celebration continued in the Alumni Dining Hall, where students enjoyed games, food, and prizes during Big Prize Bingo.

The 2026–2027 academic year brings together students from 69 North Carolina counties, 36 states, and 23 countries. With more than half of UMO’s traditional students competing in NCAA Division II athletics, UMO remains committed to fostering excellence both on the field and in the classroom, while strengthening its sense of community.

Fall semester classes begin Tuesday, August 25.