From the moment new students and their families entered the City of La Mirada on Friday, August 20, they knew Biola was anxiously anticipating their arrival as cheerleaders lined the streets leading to the University entrance. The campus was a sea of red, from jumbo balloons to arches to all members of faculty and staff wearing red to welcome incoming students. President Barry H. Corey, accompanied by the President's Administrative Council visited the residence halls to welcome the new families to the Biola community.
On Friday evening, August 20, faculty and staff representing every department on-campus encircled the crowd of students and parents at the Official University Welcome, raising hands in prayer to dedicate them as the newest members of the Biola community. Student Orientation Services hosted a weekend full of events to prepare the new students for their time at Biola, while parents attended sessions hosted by Parent Relations. On Saturday evening, August 21, new students had the opportunity to share communion with their families before saying goodbye. The weekend saw one of Biola's largest incoming classes--a true testimony to God's faithfulness to the University.