With the arrival of autumn, a vibrant atmosphere filled the campus. On September 20th, Beijing City University (BCU) successfully held its 2024 Freshman Welcome Ceremony and 40th Anniversary Gala, presenting a spectacular audiovisual feast for faculty, staff, and students. The diverse array of performances warmly welcomed the incoming 2024 class while showcasing the university's illustrious 40-year history. University leaders, representatives from various schools and departments, special guests, alumni, and over 7,000 freshmen from across China gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion.
As evening fell, the gala commenced, eagerly anticipated by the entire university community. President Liu Lin, in his address, extended sincere congratulations and a warm welcome to the over 7,000 new students from 29 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities across China. He paid heartfelt tribute to the predecessors and alumni who have significantly contributed to the university's development, highlighting the transformative changes in the university's opening ceremonies over the past four decades. He emphasized that the forty years of progress have not only forged a glorious past but also laid a rich cultural and spiritual foundation for future development. In line with the spirit of the National Education Conference and President Xi Jinping's important directives, he outlined three expectations for the new students: to be innovative, courageous, and hardworking. He noted that the national goal of building a strong educational system provides unprecedented opportunities for the university's leapfrog development and the students' personal growth. He encouraged students to cherish their university years, diligently cultivate their skills, strive for excellence, and write a magnificent chapter in their lives with the vibrant brushstrokes of their youth.
BCU invited Mr. Duan Bingren, a representative of BCU's founders; Professor Ran Nan, a representative of the first faculty and former vice president; and Mr. Shi Shujia, a representative of the first graduating class, to grace the event. Mr. Duan Bingren delivered a profound and moving lecture on the history of the university. Pro.Gong Yu, Chair of the University Council of BCU and Pro.Tian Peiyu, Executive Vice President, along with student representatives, presented flowers to these esteemed guests as a token of respect.
Ms.Zhao Wei, an alumnus and recipient of the 29th Beijing Youth May Fourth Medal, shared his personal journey and valuable experiences, offering encouragement to the new students and extending his best wishes for BCU's 40th anniversary. Ms.Wu Yunyun, a freshman from the School of Economics and Management, spoke on behalf of the new generation of BCU students, declaring their commitment to carrying the torch and sailing towards a bright future.
The gala was a dazzling spectacle of highlights and climaxes, themed Forty Years of Nurturing Talent, Welcoming New Dreams and Opening a New Chapter. Divided into three acts—City of Memory, City of Leap, and City of Future—the program showcased the university's 40-year journey of achievement through diverse artistic expressions including songs, dances, martial arts, recitations, and fashion shows, highlighting the multifaceted talents of BCU students. The vibrant atmosphere and dazzling lights filled the venue with youthful energy.
The ceremony concluded with a choral performance of the original song The Long March. The success of this Freshman Welcome Ceremony and 40th Anniversary Gala has not only strengthened the sense of belonging and pride among faculty, staff, and students but has also injected new vitality and momentum into the university's development. BCU will continue to uphold the BCU spirit of innovation, courage, and hard work in its unwavering commitment to cultivating outstanding applied talents.
