Widener Mascots Share the Pride with Admitted Students
Two of Widener’s most esteemed ambassadors recently paid celebratory visits to dozens of Delaware County, Pennsylvania students who have been admitted to the university for the fall semester.
Chester and Melrose, the beloved furry lion mascots, traveled in style aboard a bright “Pride Ride” Widener bus. They shared waves, high fives, and spirited welcomes on the lawns, sidewalks and driveways of about 40 Delaware County students who are winding down their high school careers. More visits are being considered.
“These students have missed so many milestone celebrations that are a part of this time in their lives, like proms and award ceremonies and family parties. We wanted to celebrate each one of them and let them know we are ready for them to begin their next big experience – at Widener,” said Courtney Kelly, executive director of admissions.
The outreach effort reflected Widener’s welcoming culture. It is a place where students say people feel like family, and Forbes magazine crowned it winner of the #MyTopCollege national competition, in response to overwhelming positivity toward Widener across social media.
“There is definitely a proud university spirit at Widener and we captured that with these visits. Each stop reflected the uniquely personal experience that Widener students will have with their education,” Kelly said.
Chester and Melrose got a hand from Associate Professor Chad Freed, director of Widener’s Geographic Information Systems Laboratory, who pre-planned their travel route. Freed used computer systems from the laboratory – the same systems Widener students learn on – to draft a map and a progressive path around the county.
In addition, Ellen DeLuca, who directs Widener’s Student Health Services, organized a screening process to ensure Chester and Melrose were healthy and ready for their road trip. The Campus Safety department ensured their bus was clean and oversaw safe distancing between the mascots during the excursion.
“This entire experience has been a great team effort. I hope these admitted students could feel the enthusiastic welcome, and know that kind of support will follow them through the Widener academic journey,” Kelly said.
