08/14/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/14/2026 06:53
Move-in day at East Carolina University is more than a day of boxes, carts and dorm-room keys. Family, friends and volunteers make it an event, helping about 5,200 on-campus students settle in and feel at home as a part of Pirate Nation. As students shared thoughts of joy and excitement about what's ahead, parents shed a few tears but expressed pride in their children, whose accomplishments led them to ECU.
"I'm an empty nester after this. We're both excited and nervous. Every time we've come here, everyone's been super nice and friendly. It's a big reason (she chose ECU)," said Donnie Stutts of Clayton whose daughter Abbie is majoring in biology and vocal performance.
"I'm excited for him. I'm proud of him. He's doing what he needs to do. He's living on his own and figuring out what works and what he likes to do by himself," said Tucker Roof, left, who helped his younger brother Randy move into Garrett Residence Hall. Randy Roof, of Garner, is majoring in sport performance science.