Here are some pictures from the event. With more than 1,300 new students in the freshmen class alone, we are were expecting a nice turnout, and we were not disappointed. By 4:30 p.m., the downtown streets were dotted with students making their way to Riverfront Park for a BBQ and other festivities.
If nothing else, they are a peaceful and giving bunch.
If not a bit adventurous. Yes, that is the Hudson River below. We need to get this guy on some riverfront redevelopment action. In all seriousness, it was great to see all the kids lined up on the docks enjoying the water on a beautiful afternoon.
They have some tall students too apparently.
Shortly before the 5 p.m. I had a chance to talk with Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, the President of RPI, which has a very exciting weekend ahead, including a groundbreaking Sunday morning for the East Campus Athletic Village.
I had the opportunity to talk with the students prior to dinner, and the message was simple. Explore Troy. Don't stick to just the campus. The City of Troy has a reputation among RPI students as a place that college-age students cannot benefit from. That is a reputation that was fair a decade ago. It is no longer. With our various festivals, Troy Night Out, new restaurants, interesting cafes, art galleries, and a number of unique historic landmarks, there are things to do here for students. We just have to continue to improve, and they will come out.
Maybe for some dancing.
Before I end this evening, I just wanted to post a picture of another downtown event that happened this week. The Up Your Alley project, with the help of 60 RPI freshmen, painted a wonderful mural on the back of the Hendrick Hudson Building, which is where Tosca is located. It is a picture of a chef and the changing of the seasons. Next time you are downtown take a look.
Have a nice weekend!
Harry
P.S.- Keep the e-mails coming, I will return them each as soon as I can- info@harry4troy.com
