Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) kicked off the 2026-2027 academic year by welcoming new and returning students and their families, to campus for Welcome Weekend, August 20 to 23, 2026. From the excitement of move-in day, to meeting new classmates, worship, friendly competitive games, fellowship and more opportunities to connect with the PBA community, the weekend, marked for some, a new beginning and for others, another year of learning and growth in a Christ-first environment.
Parents and students had opportunities to meet and greet professors, deans, University leaders, and make new friends, throughout the weekend at various gatherings. The weekend culminated on Sunday with a PBA tradition of Foot washing. Following Jesus’ humble example towards his disciples, PBA executive leaders and other staff begin the semester with this simple act of service for incoming students, setting the tone for the new year.
Students shared their hope for what is ahead.
Xitclahli Arellano is a Junior, Major: Marketing
“I am excited to return for my junior year because on campus there are a lot of opportunities to meet new people,” said Arellano, now a junior. “I am from Illinois, so being this far from home has stretched me and grown me. I continue to learn more about myself through being on campus and a part of life here at PBA!”
David Amaya is a Freshman, Major: Accounting
“I am happy to start college here at PBA,” said Amaya. “I like that it is a Christian University, and I like the location, by the beach, too. I am looking forward to meeting new people and growing in every area, especially in knowledge and putting what I learn into practice.”
Cross Gibson is a Transfer Student, Major: Applied Sports Performance
“I am excited about having a better education and having a life-changing experience while attending PBA,” Gibson shared. “I am also excited for this area of study because I love helping people with their health and wellness. I am also excited to be in this environment, on PBA’s campus. I know this will be a growing experience.”
Parents who had accompanied their children, some of them PBA alumni themselves, shared their anticipation.
John and Carolyn Andrews, and Daughter, Hannah is a freshman.
“PBA gave us the best education possible,” John Andrews explained as he elaborated on why the family chose PBA. “I graduated from the Rinker School of Business in the 90s, and it provided a great foundation for my career, I would also say it catapulted our spiritual walk with the Lord and all the ministry we have done. Today, my wife and I get the privilege of running an organization that strengthens families and gives them an opportunity to reinforce their relationships with one another. And our passion grew tremendously here at PBA, which is one reason we are thrilled our daughter chose this University as part of her own journey.”
The sentiment was similar for Daniel and Lisa Baeza, whose daughter Sophie is a freshman.
“We love that PBA is a Christ-centered university. That made it an easy choice for us to get behind,” Lisa Baeza shared. “Our daughter Sophie is going into the nursing program. We love the supportive environment PBA and the Nursing school have cultivated. We know she is in good hands here. We are excited to see her grow as a student, as a leader, and in her faith…We can’t wait to see who she will become because of her time here at PBA.”
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