Nearly 2,400 first-year students filled the Watsco Center this week for the annual ’Canes Take Flight program, a festive fanfare of music, dance and welcoming camaraderie for the newcomers.
University of Miami President Julio Frenk greeted the first-year students and their families Wednesday evening, which included freshman and 590 transfer students. Nearly a quarter of the students hail from Florida, with other students representing 44 states and 70 countries around the world.
Frenk encouraged the Class of 2022 to turn to their loved ones and thank them for all of their support as they embark on this new journey. He addressed the beauty in the diversity that UM offers.
“The diversity of your class represents the very best of the U,” President Frenk said. “People from all walks of life who share the fundamental values of the university—mutual respect, civil discourse, and an unwavering belief in the quest for knowledge and truth.”
He went on to discuss his expectations and encouraged students, faculty, staff, and families to come together to reach their greatest potential, foster intellectual curiosity, and develop a lasting appreciation and respect for one another and for the world beyond the Coral Gables campus.
“For many of you, this may be the most diverse environment that you have been a part of,” he said. “I hope that this community will teach you to embrace the differences of the people around you; people who look different, who speak differently, who worship differently, and who love differently.”
Students and families were then given their first take of what being a Miami Hurricane is all about. Sebastian the Ibis, the Frost Band of the Hour, Sunsations, UCheer, Hurricane Bhangra and other groups performed and gave a tutorial on how to chant the traditional C-A-N-E-S spellout cheer.
For more on ‘Cane Kickoff and a schedule of events, visit here.
