UPUA President Courtney Lennartz addressed the Class of 2016 at the Bryce Jordan Center just moments ago. See her full statement below:

Welcome Class of 2016! It is my distinct honor to welcome to you to the greatest University in the world. Whether you realize it yet or not, the people seated around you in the BJC today will impact your next four (or five) years here at Penn State, and in many ways, shape the rest of your life.

I want to start off by saying thank you – thank you on behalf of your 97,000 classmates and 557,000 Penn State alumni across the globe. You stuck with Penn State when times were tough; that’s something that takes a special kind of person. During a time when so many others turned their back on this University, YOU still believed in us. You believe in our core values – honor, integrity, philanthropy, and knowledge – which, despite what some may say, are forever unwavering. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

But now that you’re here, it’s really up to all of us. We are responsible for continuing the incredible legacy that so many have paved before us. It’s a unique moment in our University’s history, and as a result, there’s never been a more important class than yours.

I believe in all of you, just as we should all believe in each other. Together, we can make an impact and continue the glory and mission of our extraordinary University. Let us find the courage to look within ourselves and stay loyal and true to Penn State and eachother.

If I may offer you one piece of advice, get involved right away. With over 700 student organizations ranging from greek life to student government, there’s something here for everyone. Go to the football games, take part in the world’s largest dance marathon, conduct research, become a reporter for The Daily Collegian or Onward State, run for Student Body President. Just remember that everything you do represents Penn State. Don’t take one minute – don’t take one second of your time here for granted because it will be over in no time.

A lot has changed in the time since I was sitting where you are now. And I can honestly say, three years later, coming to Penn State is still the best decision I have ever made. Not once once have I doubted that decision – not one time.

Congratulations again on your acceptance– you are now officially part of the greatest family in the world- the Penn State family.