CHARLOTTE, N.C./JUNE 23, 2023 – Tyler Johnson and his mother Keyra were among the first few parent-student duos to check in for Golden Bull Academy, Johnson C. Smith University’s new student orientation.
Keyra said her son found JCSU to be the perfect match for his academic and social needs.
“He’s interested in the sport management program here and, when he was researching, he was also looking for an HBCU,” she said. “Johnson C. Smith University came up as an excellent option. He is here by way of the Sit Lux program, so I thought it was especially awesome to give him the opportunity to come in the summer and get acclimated so he can be the best student possible in the fall. If the warmth I felt this morning is any indication, I know he will do amazing things here.”
The Johnson family was joined Friday by dozens of other students and their families at the first Golden Bull Academy session of the summer. The sessions are meant to welcome new Golden Bulls into the herd and provide information that will help them start their collegiate journey on the right foot.
Numerous campus administrators attended to welcome the students to campus, including retiring President Clarence D. Armbrister.
“I am glad I had the opportunity to attend one of the three Golden Bull Academy sessions before I end my tenure as president,” he said. “You are on sacred ground. There are a lot of good things coming your way.”
Chairman Steven L. Boyd ’79, who will serve as JCSU’s interim president beginning July 1, 2023, until Dr. Valerie Kinloch ’96 starts on Aug. 1, thanked Armbrister for his leadership over the last five-and-a-half years.
He also offered sage advice to the incoming class of 2027.
“I encourage you to listen,” he said. “Listen to your advisors. Listen to your counselors. Listen to your peers. Also, make sure you find someone you trust who is in a position you want to aspire to. You will be influenced by the people you associate with, so make sure you’re surrounding yourself with the right people.”
The afternoon continued with sessions focused on paying for college, staying healthy and preparing for engaging experiences in internships and employment mentorship.
Tomorrow, students will get their student IDs, connect with the IT department, meet their success coach and academic dean and learn about JCSU’s clubs and organizations.
The next GBA will take place on July 14 to 16, 2023, and Aug. 10 to 11. To register for one of the remaining dates, fill out the registration form.
