New Patriots Arrive on University Hill for a Week of Welcome, Service, and Tradition

University Hill came alive last week as close to 700 of Dallas Baptist University's newest Patriots, the largest incoming class in DBU history, arrived for Student Welcome and Transition (SWAT) week, a whirlwind of move-in moments, heartfelt connections, and time-honored traditions.

Wednesday morning brought a steady stream of cars winding onto campus, stuffed with bedding, clothes, books, and the countless essentials that mark the start of college life. Student volunteers and SWAT leaders swarmed the sidewalks, offering smiles, handshakes, and plenty of help to carry boxes up to dorm rooms.

By evening, new students gathered for the Opening Session, the first official welcome into the DBU Family. The air buzzed with excitement and a touch of nervous anticipation for the journey ahead.

The incoming students were divided into four corps: Lexington, Concord, Yorktown, and Saratoga. Each Corp was led by upperclassmen small group leaders and Corps captains ready to take on days full of competitive events ranging from chant-offs to music performances, sports competitions, and other games to be crowned SWAT champions at the end of the week.

On Thursday, students were welcomed to campus by President Dr. Adam C. Wright and First Lady, Candice, as they opened the doors of their home to greet each student. Conversations flowed as students enjoyed the opportunity to connect with DBU's president in such a warm, casual setting.

The rest of the day provided deeper dives into campus life, where students gathered for college breakout sessions to meet professors from their chosen fields of study, joined faculty in a special time of prayer, and experienced a worship session led by DBU Chapel Worship.

The session concluded with a panel of upperclassmen who shared their personal journeys, offering encouragement and insight into life at DBU.

Thursday night was filled with energy as students gathered with their Corp groups to learn all about DBU Athletics, joined in DBU spirit alongside the cheerleaders, and took part in the tradition of the "Spud Dance." The night wrapped up with chant battles between the groups, bringing the evening to a lively close. 

By Friday, the Patriot spirit spilled out into the community. In small groups, students fanned out across the Dallas-Fort Worth area for a variety of service projects, which included painting walls, organizing donations, and doing yard work, at places like Beautiful Feet Ministries, Mid-Cities Women's Clinic, Mission Arlington, Soaring Eagle, and more. Each effort was a living example of DBU's call to servant leadership. That evening, they returned to campus for Patriot Follies, an annual tradition filled with creative skits, plenty of laughter, and shared moments that quickly became lasting memories.

After a day of service, President Wright spoke to the incoming class at a special evening Candlelighting service, offering both encouragement and challenge. He reminded students that their greatest calling in Christ is to be a light in the world. More than the friendships they will form, the lessons they will learn, or the experiences they will enjoy, becoming a student at DBU is about growing deeper in Christ's character and living that out each day. 

As classes began on Monday, the new Patriots dove into campus life with energy and purpose. Friendships forged during SWAT week carried into every classroom. The lessons of service, leadership, and faith that marked their first week set the tone for the semester ahead. The largest incoming class in DBU history has officially started its journey, ready to learn, grow, and make an impact on University Hill and beyond.