On September 3, 2025, Stevens officially welcomed the Class of 2029 with the annual Wittpenn Walk, a tradition that marks the start of their college journey. The Wittpenn Walk has become one of Stevens’ most recognizable traditions, bringing together first-year students, upperclassmen, faculty, and staff.
Students gathered outside the Babbio Center before making their way across campus in a symbolic path. Stevens views the walk as “symbolizing the start and end of an undergraduate student’s academic career,” serving as both a welcome for incoming students and a reminder of the milestone that will conclude their time at Stevens.
Along the path, members of the Stevens community lined the street to cheer, clap, and encourage the first-years. Music and applause filled the air, creating a lively atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. For many first-year students, the walk helped ease the nerves of starting college and also offered a moment to connect with peers outside the classroom.
As the class of 2029 crossed the symbolic finish line of the Wittpenn Walk, they also took their first steps into Stevens’ academic and social community. The event highlighted both the pride and unity that define our university.
The class of 2029 was highlighted by Stevens President Nariman Farvardin as an “outstanding cohort” including over 1,170 new undergraduate students, Stevens’ largest class yet, representing over 49 states and 75 countries, with an all-time high for international students, increasing by 25% since the last academic year. President Farvardin describes this class as “the most academically distinguished” in Stevens history, welcoming students who have reached milestones such as completing dual enrollment programs and graduating high school with an associate’s degree.
For the class of 2029, the Wittpenn Walk is not just a first-day tradition, but also a powerful reminder that first-year students’ college experience will be marked by support, connection, and shared accomplishment.
