Fisher Expects Largest Incoming First-Year Class in Institution’s History

This Labor Day weekend, Fisher will welcome its largest first-year class in the institution’s history. The Class of 2026 is also the inaugural incoming class of the newly named St. John Fisher University, a change that will be effective on July 1, 2022.

The class is comprised of over 650 students and is among the most academically prepared to enter Fisher, with an average GPA of 91.5. It is also Fisher’s most diverse class to date. The top academic majors of interest are nursing, biology, finance, sport management, psychology, and marketing/management. Similar to last year’s entering class, about 87% of first-year students will reside on campus.

“We are proud to welcome the University’s largest ever first-year class this fall. This entering class again confirms that prospective students and families appreciate and value what Fisher continues to offer our graduates. I am particularly proud of our enrollment team and the work of the entire campus community in leading and contributing to these historic results,” said Jose Perales, vice president for enrollment management.

Members of the class will arrive at Fisher from 17 different states and Guam. Home for some include: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Vermont.

Some of the newest Cardinals began their orientation to Fisher by attending Great Beginnings during the week of June 20. During their visit they had the opportunity to meet their peers and orientation leaders, attend break-out sessions about campus life and academics, and enjoy lunch in the top-ranked dining hall in New York State. Upon arrival, they were greeted by a member of the Fisher staff who provided them with a new iPad and accessories, part of the iFisher Next Generation Learning Initiative on campus.

Angelina Sanchez from Rochester said that finding an institution steeped in tradition and faith was important to her, and once she visited Fisher, she felt a positive vibe and enthusiasm in the community that solidified her decision. A First-Generation Scholar and computer science major with a minor in cybersecurity, Sanchez said she is most looking forward to bonding with her First-Generation group.

“The campus is absolutely beautiful and my schedule is perfect. When I finish at Fisher, I am hoping for a career working for the government in some capacity. I also hope to have established some really good lifelong lasting friendships as well,” she said. “I like the energy here at Fisher. It feels like I made the perfect choice and I couldn’t be happier to get to work and show how appreciative I am for being chosen for my scholarship.”

Great Beginnings resumes the week of June 27. Move-in day for first-year students is Saturday, Sept. 3 and orientation will last throughout Labor Day Weekend. Upperclassman will return to campus on Monday, Sept. 5, and classes begin on Tuesday, Sept. 6.