Howard Payne University recently hosted Jacket Journey, a five-day orientation program for new students. The event took place August 19 through 23, prior to the first day of classes on August 24.

During Jacket Journey, new students spent their first week in residence halls, learned about HPU traditions and campus life and met faculty, staff and upperclassmen leaders.

“Jacket Journey student leaders have been working since January to make sure these five days prepare our new students to succeed on campus,” said Francie Clark, director of student activities. “It’s incredibly fun when we finally get to meet our new students.”

HPU hosted Chime In on Wednesday, August 19, during which the new students were officially welcomed to the university. The participants ceremoniously walked through the university’s Wilson Gate before arriving at HPU’s Old Main Tower to sing the alma mater for the first time together as a class. Upon graduating from the university, the students will in turn participate in Chime Out, walking out of the Wilson Gate.

A variety of games, workshops and team-building events were also planned for the week. On Saturday, students participated in Serving With A Right Motive (S.W.A.R.M.), a community-service event.

Dr. Magen Bunyard, vice president for student life and dean of students, said she looks forward to the arrival of new students and the return of upperclassmen each semester.

“There is great excitement when students arrive on campus,” she said. “New students are experiencing HPU traditions for the first time, and returning students are welcoming them to the HPU community.”

Now is the time to apply for the spring 2016 and fall 2016 semesters at HPU. The university offers many financial aid opportunities including the Heart of Texas Scholarship which substantially benefits students from Brown County and other counties in the area. To learn more, contact the Office of Admission at (325) 649-8020 or enroll@hputx.edu. More information may also be found online at