Apr 14, 2025
Admitted students and their families filled King Concert Hall for “Go Big Blue Day” at SUNY Fredonia Saturday.
State University of New York at Fredonia’s King Concert Hall was buzzing with excitement Saturday morning as more than 900 guests packed the venue for the university’s annual admitted students event, known as “Go Big Blue Day.”
With 910 registered attendees, this year’s event marked the largest since before the pandemic, a strong signal of growing interest in the Fredonia experience.
“Go Big Blue Day” offered future Blue Devils a chance to immerse themselves in campus life. From meeting with faculty in their chosen academic programs and hearing from successful alumni, to exploring student clubs, residence halls, and campus resources, the day is designed to help students envision their life at Fredonia. Students were also invited to officially take the next step in their journey by submitting their deposit to enroll for the fall semester.
“Go Big Blue Day is all about helping students envision their future at Fredonia,” said Director of Admissions Austin Brass. “There’s incredible energy when students and families come together on campus. They get an inside look at what their academic journey will look like, but just as importantly, they experience the vibrant campus life that makes Fredonia feel like home.”
Vice President for Enrollment Management and Services Kathryn Kendall (’90) addressed the crowd in King Concert Hall, reflecting on her own experience as a Fredonia student. “As an alumnus, I know firsthand the great experience I had as a student, and I’m working here now because I believe it remains an exceptional place for students,” she said. “I believe we will be a great fit for many of you, and if you are not sure yet, we would love the opportunity to help you explore that decision.”
Alumnus Kat Mahoney (’98), who earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Women’s Studies and now runs her own law firm in Oregon, shared how her recent time on campus reignited her Fredonia pride. “I’ve had the honor the past several days of talking to Fredonia students about social justice and the power of words and it has been amazing,” Mahoney said. “And it has reminded me of how Fredonia is not just a place to go and get good grades and start a career, it’s a place to grow and create lasting friendships.”
SUNY Fredonia President Stephen H. Kolison, Jr. brought heartfelt reassurance to the many parents in the audience by sharing his own experience as a father. “I have been in your seat, dropping my child off with strangers, hoping they will be alright,” President Kolison said. “Let me assure you that the people on this campus care and will help your student have an amazing education and experience.”
Throughout the day, guests participated in academic department breakouts, toured the campus, explored the student services fair, and attended a special event for accepted students in the Honors Program.
After criticism over an inflated number in this year’s budget, Fredonia Fire Chief Joshua Myers offered a …
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