Duck Camp Cheers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 21, 2020
STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University is shifting one of its most cherished summer traditions — Duck Camp — from an off-campus location to its Stephenville campus to better ensure student safety during the evolving coronavirus.
Named for Oscar P — legendary pet duck of the university’s founder — the three-day experience for incoming freshmen and transfer students eases the transition into college life. Participants are immersed in the school’s history and traditions while connecting with peers, student leaders, faculty and staff.
“We want every new student possible to experience our institution firsthand at a summer Duck Camp,” said Tarleton President James Hurley. “There’s no better way to learn about our university, connect with classmates and become engaged with the Tarleton family.
“Duck Camp is an opportunity to have fun while gaining the knowledge to thrive in college.”
Camp dates are July 21-23, July 28-30, Aug. 3-5 and Aug. 9-11. Check-in times and locations remain the same. Go to www.tarleton.edu/orientation/duckcamp.html for registration information.
“The Class of 2024 can expect a Duck Camp unlike any in the past,” said Dr. Kelli C. Styron, vice president for student affairs. “Though the setting will be different, Duck Camp will be better than ever. We’re planning a full slate of exciting activities to introduce our newest students to everything that makes our university the special place it is. I can’t wait to meet them face to face and celebrate the start of their academic journey.”
Camp-goers will stay in campus housing. University safety and operations officials are following CDC guidance and directives from public health officials to create a safe experience.
“We believe this shift in locations will help keep our new students, their families and our campus community safe in these uncertain times,” said Mike Barnette, director for new student programs. “University faculty, staff and current student leaders are going above and beyond to make this summer’s Duck Camp one to remember.” Tarleton, a founding member of The Texas A&M University System, provides a student-focused, value-driven education marked by academic innovation and a dedication to transform today’s scholars into tomorrow’s leaders. It offers degree programs to more than 13,000 students at Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian, RELLIS Academic Alliance in Bryan, and online, emphasizing real-world learning experiences that address societal needs while maintaining its core values of tradition, integrity, civility, excellence, leadership and service.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of nearly 17,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. True to Tarleton’s values of excellence, integrity and respect, academic programs emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.