University of North Alabama‘s “Unpack The Pride” a Success

Aug. 19, 2014



Bryan Rachal, Public Affairs and Media Relations 

Unpack the PrideFLORENCE, Ala. – Cars full of college essentials along with new freshmen and their families lined Pine Street Friday as the University of North Alabama welcomed incoming students to campus for “Unpack the Pride.” 

“Unpack the Pride” is the official name for move-in day at UNA, and this year was a huge success, according to Jennifer Ballard, assistant director for Success Initiatives for the Department of Residence Life at UNA. Ballard said that approximately 450 freshmen moved in Friday, with the help of 325 volunteers.  Fifty-two helped with the upperclassmen move-in Saturday. 

Ballard said the volunteers were made up of current UNA students, staff, faculty, administration, student organizations, alumni, shoals community members, local businesses and groups.  “We had a much more diverse pool of volunteers this year.  It was phenomenal to see representation from both the student affairs and academic divisions, and the intensity of assistance they provided.”

Ballard said they did learn some lessons from this year; they would like to increase the amount of participation and support shown to the returning students on the second day of the event.  Regardless, she said it was a fantastic two days.

“It’s a great way for students to meet a wealth of individuals from across the university and local community.  The second they step foot on campus, it allows the Parents of the Pride to see what great care and support our students are receiving when they attend UNA.”  Ballard said that it’s also a valuable way for community members to connect students to their organizations and the many opportunities available across the Shoals.

“It’s overwhelming to see how this community comes together to welcome students to their UNA home and to help them embark on a remarkable undergraduate journey.” 

Pictures of “Unpack the Pride” can be found online here:

http://www.unalionsden.com/archive/gallery.php?album_id=971&photo_id=12697