On February 13, CHCA’s Admissions team welcomed newly enrolled freshmen with a first-of-its-kind event. 

More than 30 incoming ninth graders, part of the Early Action cohort, were invited for a welcome hangout at Martha S. Lindner campus, during which they received personalized gift boxes stuffed with CHCA swag, had their pics snapped against an Eagles-themed backdrop, and connected with others in their class.  

“This is a new event for us,” says Audrey Keyes ’95, Associate Director of Upper School Admissions & Alumni Engagement. “The idea behind it was simply that we wanted to congratulate and welcome this special group of students.”  

Years past have seen families come to CHCA’s Welcome Center to receive a gift and signature “Class Of...” yard sign. This year, however, Admissions saw fit to expand the welcome visit into a group-wide social, where students could interact with their future peers (at their future stomping grounds) earlier than the first day of school, and families could begin forming relationships with others new to CHCA.  

Thinking big, the Admissions team considered every detail of the event, from its timing—right before the boys’ varsity basketball game—to its theme and energy. Gift boxes were hand-stamped with each student’s name and wrapped in a silky purple bow. Custom props led to fun and memorable photos. A snack table let students fill a bag with sweet treats to munch on during and after the night. And complimentary basketball game tickets invited families to experience their first CHCA sporting event as official Eagles. 

“The parents were absolutely thrilled,” says Keyes. “They loved having their kids welcomed, and they loved connecting with other new families. We already have some ideas to make next year even better, but this first event was a success.” 

-- Jennifer Cooke, Content Strategy & Communications Manager