Courtesy of John C. Smith University
Nearly 375 prospective future Golden Bulls and their families made their way to Brayboy Gymnasium Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022, for Open House.
After receiving a true Johnson C. Smith University welcome, students were invited to visit informational booths, participate in challenges and watch performances by the IIOS Drumline, Luv-A-Bulls cheer team, Blue Satin, the Untouchabulls and the University concert choir.
“This event always brings out prospective students,” said JCSU’s new Director of Admissions Dr. Hamilton Raymond. “I love to show these students what we can offer by getting them information about JCSU and getting them to see how family oriented we are. That’s something that sells itself in a sense, so we’re always excited to have them on campus.”
Raymond began his tenure at JCSU in September. With 13 years of higher education experience, including time as an assistant director of Admissions and director of Student Life at his previous institutions, Raymond was excited to be one of many JCSU staff members running Open House.
During the event, students were also given the opportunity to meet President Clarence D. Armbrister as well as other members of the administration. Armbrister shared a few words about the outlook of the University with the attendees.
“The business community here wants to hire you,” he said. “There is no reason, if you come to Johnson C. Smith University that you won’t leave, if you want, with a job at any corporation here in Charlotte.”
After hearing from Armbrister, students and their families were divided into breakout sessions, including panel discussions with current JCSU students, an academic and student organization fair, evening and online information sessions and parent information sessions.
After Open House, potential Smithites and their families made their way down to Irwin Belk Complex, where the Golden Bulls defeated the Shaw University Bears 22-18.
