Bronx Community College’s Fall 2025 New Student Orientation welcomed approximately 300 incoming students on Thursday, August 14 — a turnout reminiscent of pre-pandemic years. Throughout the day, students participated in interactive workshops covering every facet of campus life, from Financial Aid and BCC/CUNY Technology to Growth Mindset, Student Engagement and Support Services, Academic Success strategies, and the Code of Conduct.

The program opened in the landmark Gould Memorial Library, where BCC President Dr. Larry Johnson and Interim Vice President for Student Success Dr. Manny Lopez delivered a spirited welcome. Dr. Lopez energized the crowd with a call-and-response chant: “Who are we?”
“We are BCC!”

President Johnson urged students to embrace self-belief and recognize the College’s commitment to their success.

“The fact that you are here today means you will defy all the stigma — about the Bronx, about BCC, or about what others said you couldn’t do,” he said. “Do you believe that? Because if you don’t believe it, who will?” The crowd responded with a resounding “Yes!”

“You made the right choice in choosing this institution,” President Johnson added. “Our great faculty and staff look forward to supporting you.”

Organized by BCC’s First Year Program team and the Office of Student Life, the orientation featured 20-minute workshops with time for Q&A. A common theme emerged: get involved, and ask for help when needed. Students learned about free and confidential personal counseling, emergency financial assistance and/or help with housing, an on-site health clinic, the Bronco food pantry, free tax preparation, and a childcare center for student parents with children ages six weeks to five years.

“The research is clear,” Dr. Lopez said. “The more students get involved on campus, the better their chances of success. And attending orientation is a great first step.”

In addition to the in-person orientation, an online New Student Orientation is scheduled for the evening of Tuesday, August 19th. Throughout the year, students also will have access at their leisure to the online resource videos and be able to take part in accompanying interactive workshops.