Louisiana Christian University hosts 119th freshman convocation

PINEVILLE, La. (WNTZ) – Louisiana Christian University formally welcomed its 119th class of students Tuesday during Freshman Convocation, encouraging new Wildcats to focus on their goals and embrace the university’s traditions.

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson challenged students to stay grounded in their faith and purpose as they begin their college journey.

“You have four years to get this right,” Johnson said. “Because when you leave here, you’ll have a calling and a career to accomplish.”

The ceremony included remarks from Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry O. Robertson and Faculty Marshal Dr. Wade Warren, who emphasized the university’s close-knit community and history. LCU, founded in 1906, will celebrate its 120th anniversary in 2026.

“God has blessed LCU with longevity,” Robertson said, reminding students that each one is valued as an individual, not just a number.

Warren, who has taught at LCU for decades, reflected on his family’s deep ties to the school, noting that he, his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law all attended. “I bleed orange and blue,” he said.

Johnson also drew from the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Daniel 3, urging students to anchor their hearts and minds in faith when facing challenges.

“As you go through this semester, ask yourself, ‘Is your heart fixed on who God is?’” Johnson said. “Once your heart is fixed, then your mind can be fixed.”

The event concluded with the introduction of a new tradition. Faculty escorted the freshman class to the historic Louisiana College arch, where students were greeted personally by the president and professors in a receiving line. At graduation, the students will repeat the process in reverse, symbolizing both their journey through LCU and their induction into the alumni community.