Fall Highlights Newsletter by High Point University

Achieving Excellence Through Faithful Courage

Beyond a record enrollment year, High Point University continues to showcase it’s dedication to academics, student life and an inspiring campus environment.

Recognized by Forbes as one of a handful of universities in the nation to grow enrollment in fall 2024, HPU enrolled a record 1,650 new students, part of a total class of 6,335 students, which was its largest full enrollment in history.

Along with record total enrollment, HPU opened the new Workman School of Dental Medicine and the Kenneth F. Kahn School of Law, both at full capacity. With both of these schools being built on HPU’s Innovation Corridor, a total of $100 million in construction was underway this summer, just ahead of HPU’s centennial anniversary on September 14.

Also in academics, the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication held a grand opening for its new TV studio for students. The studio includes a 24-foot high-resolution video wall, new furniture and a stateof-the-art broadcast system. Another prime example of the experiential learning opportunities that are at the fingertips of students.

Not only do HPU students love learning in state-of-the-art academic facilities, but they also love living in nationally ranked dorms while having access to top ranked dining options. Panther Commons, the newest residence hall on campus, is an $80 million+ facility that houses 400 students and includes large study spaces, a fine-dining hibachi experience, a nail and hair salon and so much more. See page seven for more information on this new dorm!

Across the street from Panther Commons residence hall is HPU’s new “I ❤️ High Point University” sign that serves as the perfect photo opportunity for current students and families as well as future Panthers who are visiting campus. Make sure to snap a picture in front of the sign when you visit campus!

And it doesn’t stop there. High Point University is constantly improving and achieving excellence in all aspects across campus.

“My HPU experience shaped me into who I am today in more ways than one. Although I cannot name a singular impactful moment, my impactful experience was one of meaningful relationships: deep mentorship with my faculty, lifelong friendships with my peers, and empowering teammate dynamics with my colleagues. I am forever grateful for HPU, and I cannot imagine where I would be in my life if not for all that I gained and gave in my four years there.”

- Ava Taylor, ‘24, Pursuing a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Where HPU Can Take You

employed or continuing education within 180 days of graduation 14 points

Below is a glimpse of High Point University graduates leading careers at impressive organizations or enrolled in competitive graduate programs. To see many more examples, visit www.highpoint.edu/outcomes Thesestudentsshowwhatyour futurecouldlooklikewhenyouenrollatHPU!

Morgan Pinckney, ’24, TIAA, Marketing & Communications Rotational Associate

Major: Marketing

Hometown: Columbia, Maryland

“HPU prioritizes hands-on learning experiences like internships, research projects and community service. These experiences helped me apply knowledge in real-life situations and deeply explore my interests. Overall, HPU gave me access to exceptional learning opportunities that helped me grow personally and professionally.”

Nawal Dergham, ’20, MA-CBL ’21, Google, Crisis Response Coordinator

Majors: Journalism, Sociology and Anthropology

Hometown: Greensboro, North Carolina

“HPU created a professional environment for me to gain experience on a unique level. They provided me with various opportunities to learn and grow in order for me to thrive in the world post-graduation. HPU offered me an amazing chance to continue my education with their CBL Graduate program; it was awesome being part of it’s inaugural class.”

Sam Mycroft, ’21, SpaceX, Satellite Software Engineer

Major: Physics

Hometown: Hawthorne, California

“The physics and computer science departments at High Point University were such a huge factor in helping me land this amazing position at my dream company. Both in the classroom and outside of it, professors were always willing to help me work through my questions and provide insight on how to achieve my career goals.”

Mia Clemons, ’23, GE HealthCare, Commercial Leadership Program

Major: Biology

Hometown: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

“High Point University has provided me with a supportive success network and invaluable networking tools. From my first day on campus freshman year, I have had so many opportunities to develop both personally and professionally. My advisors, professors and mentors at HPU have been there to support me throughout my undergraduate career and prepare me to succeed after graduation.”

Andrew Rampaul-Pino, ’25, KPMG, Embark Scholar Intern in NYC

Major: Accounting

Hometown: Berkeley Heights, New Jersey

“The HPU accounting faculty helped me get to where I am. In particular, Dr. Sundaram has helped push me, map out a plan for a solid career path and guide me as I started pursuing it. In addition to that, Professor Scott Davis’s tax class has helped me learn the importance of detail and how all the little things matter as well.”

Alon Parker, ’22, Amazon Web Services, Startups Associate Account Executive

Major: Sales

Hometown: Concord, North Carolina

“HPU provided a variety of hands-on experiences and learning opportunities that prepared me for leadership roles on campus, which led to a summer internship with AWS. I became a change agent, acted as a servant leader and learned to advocate for others through my experiences as vice president of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Student Government Association, event coordinator for the Office of Multicultural Affairs and as a diversity mentor.”

Premier Life Skills Experiences

HPU’s campus offers opportunities and state-of-the-art laboratories where students develop the Life Skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. While there are too many to list here, below is a glimpse of how HPU relentlessly pursues opportunities to arm students with practical experiences.

State-Of-The-Art Facilities, Real-Life Scenarios

HPU students experience an immersive and ever-changing learning environment from day one. Their education is really a four-year career where they’re treated as professionals, leaders, scholars and executives. Equipped with state-of-the-art resources and technology, the educational environment at High Point University mimics the real world and compresses time for students. Consider where this combination of mentorship and cutting-edge tech takes students.

Grant Hines, ’24, was heavily involved in student news shows, allowing him to develop skills across the broadcast journalism field through hands-on learning in the areas he was passionate about. Producing and co-anchoring the election night special that HPU’s on-campus broadcast club, HPU Vision, aired in the state-of-the-art TV Studio was one of his most impactful moments as a student. Hines now serves as a news desk assistant for NBC News.

“My most impactful mentor was Joe Michaels, professor of the practice of media production and HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence. Joe is an NBC alumnus and former director of the TODAY Show. He has helped many students achieve their goals and work for NBC. He has given me endless advice and told countless stories that stimulated my interest in media and news and helped me build the skills I needed to succeed.”

—Grant Hines, ‘24, News Desk Assistant at NBC News

Explore more experiential learning opportunities and see HPU students in action!

HPU’S TUITION-FREE MASTER’S DEGREES: CAN’T MISS OPPORTUNITY

Fine-Dining Learning Labs

1924 PRIME, Alo and Kazoku, HPU’s finedining learning labs, allow students to practice etiquette and communication skills, and explore international flavors, customs, and culture during dinner for four years at HPU. When an employer takes you to a job interview or you meet a client for dinner, you’ll be ready.

The Jana and Ken Kahn Hotel

This boutique hotel is nestled within the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center on the campus of High Point University. HPU students in event management, hospitality, sport management, media production and other majors gain hands-on experiences working in a variety of positions in this $170 million experiential learning super structure.

Never Miss an Opportunity to Network

HPU’s airplane fuselage is located in Cottrell Hall, a hub for career development. It offers the profile of a plane’s interior, complete with power outlets for laptops, overhead storage, reclining seats and inspirational quotes that scroll through the windows of the plane. This space allows students to practice their quick-pitch and serves as a reminder to always be ready for new opportunities.

At High Point University, there are many distinctive opportunities you won’t find on other campuses, including the 11 Tuition-Free Master’s Degree programs available to all incoming freshmen in the Class of 2029, such as degrees in healthcare management, biomedical sciences, communication and business leadership, educational leadership and many others!

Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)

• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) In Business Analytics

• Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) In Healthcare Management

Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) In Supply Chain Management

• Master of Arts in Communication and Business Leadership (M.A.)

• Master of Education in Educational Leadership Studies (M.Ed.)

Master of Education in Elementary Education (M.Ed.)

• Master of Education in Special Education (M.Ed.)

• Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (M.S.BMS)

• Master of Science in Athletic Training (M.S.A.T.)

• Master of Healthcare Administration (M.H.A.)

“The CBL program helps you develop skills you never thought you needed. My top takeaway was learning how to collaborate efficiently with my fellow classmates. In the corporate world, this skill is vital. Being able to understand outside perspectives and adapt to group settings was a huge lesson I learned.”

– Nawal Dergham, ’20, MA-CBL, ’21 Crisis Response Coordinator, Google Learn More

NEW TV STUDIO

Experiential Learning Opportunities Abound

You’ll have access to INNOVATORS.

High Point University’s In-Residence Program provides students with extensive access to global leaders and innovators. All of the in-residence faculty below make regular visits to HPU or teach full-time on campus. Visit www.highpoint.edu/innovators for more information on the global leaders who educate and inspire students to dream big.

INNOVATOR IN RESIDENCE

Steve Wozniak

Apple Computer Co-Founder

SPORTS EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE

Cynt Marshall

CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and Former Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at AT&T

ENTREPRENEUR IN RESIDENCE

Marc Randolph

Netflix Co-Founder

JOURNALIST IN RESIDENCE

Byron Pitts

Co-Anchor of ABC’s “Nightline”

TALENT ACQUISITION EXPERT IN RESIDENCE

Dee Ann Turner

Former Vice President for Talent at Chick-fil-A

CORPORATE EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE

Russell Weiner

Domino’s CEO

SPORTS REPORTER IN RESIDENCE

Bob Ryan

Famed Sportswriter for The Boston Globe; known as “the Quintessential American Sportswriter”

Have you met these innovators? HPU students have.

Sports Media Majors Produced Live Pre-Game Show for HPU’s ESPNU Game

During HPU’s Men’s Basketball succesful season, students in Nido R. Qubein School of Commuincation were able to put their skills to the test. HPU’s nationally broadcasted ESPNU game was a chance for current sport media students to take advantage of experiential learning.

The live pre-game show experience included students in the role of videographers, stage managers, directing, on-air talent, etc.

Students Make Meaningful Connections at The Master’s Tournament

DATA EXPERT IN RESIDENCE

Teena Piccione

Global Transformation & Operations Executive at Google

High Point University students had the opportunity to work at The Masters Tournament and develop their professional skills while helping to run one of golf’s most historic events.

They spent a week working in a variety of hospitality and merchandising roles at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. Overall, students were able to network, make connections with business professionals, and learn more about the importance of teamwork and good customer service while working at The Masters.

“The Masters is truly unlike any other experience. The opportunity to work at such a prestigious event was so beneficial to my professional development, as I was able to network with business professionals, further develop my communication skills and gain an understanding of what planning goes into such a large-scale event.”

—Patrick Parker, ‘26, business administration major Get a behind-the-scenes look in this video!

Summer Research: Antibiotic-Resistance

Dr. Meghan Blackledge, associate professor of chemistry and director of HPU’s Natural Sciences Fellows, worked with five students this summer to continue research on antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including MRSA.

Underway since 2019, the research was supported by a nearly $440,000 National Institutes of Health grant that was the first NIH Academic Research Enhancement Award grant awarded to HPU.

“I learned how to time-manage and rely on myself when there’s a problem in the lab and no one’s around. I learned perseverance to solve problems on my own, and I think that’s a valuable skill that I can use for the rest of my life.”

Inside HPU’s Athletic Success

HPU Sweeps Big South Outdoor Track & Field Titles for Fourth Straight Season

The HPU men’s and women’s track and field teams defended the Big South Outdoor Titles, collecting the program’s fourth straight sweep of the championships. The Panther men secured 288.5 points and witnessed 15 individual championships with three sweeps of the podium. The women walked away with 242 points and secured 14 individual titles with one sweep of the podium.

First Time in Program History: HPU Baseball Advances to NCAA Tournament

This summer, the High Point University baseball team won it’s first Big South title in program history, advancing to the NCAA Tournament. It was also the fifth time in Big South history that the championship game was a shutout.

HPU Men’s Basketball Crowned Big South Regular Season Champs

In Head Coach Alan Huss’ first season coaching the Panthers, he guided the 2023–24 team to a Big South conference regular season title for the first time since the 2015–16 season. Starting from scratch and forming a whole new team, HPU held an overall record of 24-6, which is the most wins ever in HPU men’s basketball D1 history (1999-present) and the most wins by a first-year head coach in all of HPU men’s basketball dating back to the 1920s.

The College Tour

This series aims to help answer the ultimate question: “Which college is best for you?”

(Hint: it’s HPU). Take the ultimate virtual campus tour by watching our feature on “The College Tour” – an Amazon Prime series!

Tuition-Free Study Abroad

scan to watch

HPU’s Go Global Grant is a tuition-free opportunity that empowers students to see the world while developing the life skills they’ll need to make an impact in their future career.

You’ll enjoy these benefits through HPU’s Go Global Grant:

• Free tuition for your global coursework (up to a $5,000 value)

• Four academic credits

• Four weeks of professional and cultural development

• Your preferred destination in one of HPU’s International Hubs

• Memories and lessons that will last a lifetime

LEARN MORE!

Sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, doesn’t it? To secure your Go Global Grant, contact the Office of Admissions at 1-800-345-6993 or scan the QR code above to schedule a time to visit HPU. During your visit, you’ll meet one-on-one with your admissions counselor, who can tell you more about this incredible opportunity.

Values-Based Living and Learning

At HPU, students live and learn in an environment that reinforces their personal values and surrounds them with mentors who model service, joy, generosity, gratitude and respect. HPU’s educational model results not only in student success but also significance. Our teaching philosophy prepares not only their minds but also their hearts and souls. An HPU education sets graduates apart. Here are a few examples:

Community Engagement Recognized Nationally

High Point University is one of just 40 colleges and universities in the nation to receive the 2024 Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, an elective and voluntary designation that highlights an institution’s commitment to community engagement.

The designation reflects HPU’s commitment to the community. HPU students, faculty and staff volunteer 500,000 hours of service every year. Their efforts include a variety of community initiatives, such as serving at local nonprofit organizations, hosting an annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service with numerous volunteer opportunities, donating thousands of pounds of food to pantries and shelters, providing free health care services such as dental checkups, health assessments at local schools, and physical therapy services at HPU’s Pro Bono Physical Therapy Clinic, and much more.

HPU Freshmen Build 150 Bikes for Local Children

An HPU tradition, High Point University’s freshmen kicked off their first day of classes by giving back to the community and surprising local children with 150 new bicycles. Students worked together during Move-In Weekend to build the bikes as their very first team-building exercise.

This event is one of the many ways HPU contributes 500,000 hours of service to the community each year.

Dental Provides Free Dental Care To Everyday Heroes

High Point University’s Workman School of Dental Medicine offered free dental care to veterans, teachers and first responders as a way to thank them for their dedication to serving the community.

Giving back to everyday heroes is something HPU takes pride in— reminding students of the value of generosity.

WHY PARENTS APPRECIATE HPU’S VALUES

“The importance and value that is placed on God, Family and Country (in that order) is truly what propels HPU to the top in colleges and universities. Those values reinforce the decisions that have made HPU so unique among schools. Our daughter has had the best college experience and matured personally and professionally beyond what we could have imagined. HPU has equipped her with the best tools, resources and experiences to succeed. We have only wanted to give our children the best foundation in life, and we truly feel that HPU has partnered with us in that endeavor.”

-Tina Marsh, HPU Parent of Bailey, ’25

“As someone who knows the Higher Education world well, I honestly tell other families that no other college or university shares and instills their values as clearly as HPU. If a “God, Family, Country” university is what your child is looking for, this is it.”

-Kerry Tornesello, HPU Parent of Ben, ’23

“Dr. Qubein will tell you that HPU is a God, Family and Country school. HPU treats students like adults, models important behaviors for them and gives students an incredible opportunity to grow. And no matter how many differences all our children have, they all share those same values that are at the core of HPU.”

-David Amigo, HPU Parent of Joshua, ’22, Zach, ’24, and Cooper, ’25

“When you bring your child to college, you’re taking the training wheels off, and you have to hope and pray that what you have done as far as instilling your values and what you think is important, right and wrong, sticks. When we brought Jodi to HPU, it was evident that this place is very different. The church is right on campus. Look at the sculptures on the promenade, the prominent figures like Harriett Tubman and Rosa Parks. That environment opens a curiosity that leads them down the correct path.”

-John Guglielmi, HPU Parent of Jodi, ’15

PARENT PERSPECTIVE

Families appreciate HPU’s commitment to valuesbased learning and living.

Watch these families and students explain why HPU was the right fit for them.

Annually, HPU students commit nearly 500,000 hours of community service to the

local community and beyond.

Hibachi Night: A Tradition

Imagine eating a delicious Japanese dinner with your friends each week! In HPU’s Panther Commons dorm, we have the newest fine-dining experience, Kazoku. It’ll become a tradition for you and your friends, creating core memories you will cherish forever. You’ll want to try the fried cheesecake—rumor has it, it’s the best in town.

Fun Fact: Once per week, a fine-dining experience is included in your meal plan.

Electric Energy Meets Panther Pride!

For an HPU Panther, there’s nothing quite like walking into the sea of purple that fills HPU’s Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena ahead of a men’s or women’s basketball game. Students pack the student section and HPU Student Suite for the best views in the house throughout the season. They rise to their feet as the band plays and the lights dim before Prowler, HPU’s Panther mascot, struts to center court raising an HPU flag to the beat of purple drums. HPU athletes storm the court. The energy is contagious. The memories made are priceless.