Campus News

Chamber, Wisp, Garrett College partner to offer New Student Welcome Reception

A record-setting number of Garrett College students took advantage of beautiful weather, fun activities, and delicious food as the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, Wisp Resort and Garrett College teamed up to host the 2022 Student Welcome Reception last Friday at the Wisp.

"This is the best turnout we've ever had – over 100 students," said JR Kerns, Garrett College's dean of student affairs. "I think that's due to word-of-mouth – students who've attended previous years letting the new students know it's a great time."

"It's a beautiful day – I'm excited about riding the [mountain] coaster," said GC sophomore Vanessa Cooper, referring to one of the Wisp activities available to students free of charge. "And I am very appreciative of the lunch – it's the best meal I've had since I moved in."

The College, Chamber and Wisp have been partnering on the event since 2019.

Photos by John Rudd

Josias Mickens takes a ride on the Wisp's mountain coaster during last Friday's New Student Welcome Reception. The event was jointly sponsored by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, the Wisp Resort and Garrett College.

Photos by John Rudd

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, Wisp Resort and Garrett College jointly sponsored a New Student Welcome Reception last Friday at the Wisp. Pictured, left to right, are Wisp Director of Sales Lisa Ratliff, Chamber Executive Vice President Regina Sweitzer, Chamber Project Coordinator Holly Lane, and Garrett College President Dr. Richard Midcap.

"It's just about welcoming the students to Garrett County," said Lisa Ratliff, director of sales for the Wisp. "We want them to come and play with us and come and work with us. The goal is that they enjoy the area, get a great education at the College and think about staying here in the county."

Holly Lane, project coordinator for the Chamber of Commerce, said there was a great energy throughout the event.

"With COVID lifting, students are feeling some kind of normalcy – the level of anxiety is lifting and there really have a good comfort level," said Lane. "We really want to see these students grow in Garrett County and hopefully stay in Garrett County. This type of event shows them what's available here in the great outdoors." Kerns credited the Chamber, the Wisp and his GC student development staff – Director Rich Schofield and Assistant Director Brandon Jackson – with developing an enjoyable event.

"The Student Welcome Reception is just a great way to kick off the new academic year," said Kerns.

GC freshman Cassius Bonjasky, originally from the Netherlands, was impressed with the "peaceful environment" and "the fun things to do. He enjoyed the welcome event, but is looking even more forward to the winter.

"I love snowboarding," said Bonjasky.