Bryant University welcomed the Class of 2023 at Opening Convocation, the first official gathering of the new academic year.

"Our pledge is to educate and inspire you to discover your passion and become innovative leaders with character around the world," President Ronald K. Machtley told the newest Bulldogs.

The 891 members of the Class of 2023 were drawn from the largest applicant pool in Bryant’s 156-year history. They earned admission through impressive academics, leadership experience, and character: The average high school GPA for the Class of 2023 was 3.4, and the average SAT total score was 1216.

More than 20 percent of the Class of 2023 was admitted into the University’s Honors Program, which requires a minimum SAT of 1270 or ACT of 27, as well as ranking in the top 10 percent of their high school class (or GPA of at least 3.6).

More than 7 percent of the Class of 2023 are international students, hailing from 25 countries on five continents. Twenty-four of the 50 states are represented in this first-year class.

Just over 21 percent of  the Class of 2023 are among the first in their families to attend college. More than 200 members of the Class of 2023 have family members who have earned a degree from Bryant.

As part of this year's Convocation, President Machtley awarded the University's Character Award to Kelci Abernethy '19. Abernethy recovered from a traumatic brain injury suffered while diving during her sophomore year, and won a gold medal in the 1-meter dive at the NEC Championships this past winter. She graduated as the program record-holder in the 1-meter and 3-meter dives.