College Welcome Students Program Returns for the 22nd Year

2025 Welcome College Students FB-min

Salisbury, MD – For its 22nd year, the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce will welcome Salisbury University, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and Wor-Wic Community College students to Delmarva with its Welcome College Students Program.

Through generous sponsorship from Hebron Savings Bank and Clear Channel, the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce will purchase billboards and posters displaying a “Welcome College Students” message.

Starting August 18, a welcome message will be displayed on billboards in five prominent locations throughout Salisbury, Fruitland, and Princess Anne for a duration of four weeks.

Additionally, posters welcoming students will be placed around college campuses and at local businesses during the college move-in period.

Businesses can download and print the posters or pick them up at the chamber office. The chamber encourages businesses to promote their participation by taking photos of the posters displayed in their establishments and sharing them on social media.

Local business owners that have marquees are encouraged to display the message “Welcome College Students.”

The Welcome College Students Program was started in 2004 by Stephanie Willey, Past SACC President and general manager of 47abc WMDT, as an effort to encourage positive relationships between local college students and the business community.

“Every year, the financial contributions made by local students significantly bolster our community’s economy,” stated Willey. “The support for our college students is essential for the flourishing of our community. Students from Salisbury University, Wor-Wic Community College, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore actively engage with our local businesses, enriching our vibrant community. We hope that, after graduation, they choose to remain with us, further strengthening our local ties and fostering growth,” Willey added.

Bill Chambers, President/CEO of the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, added, “The regional business community is delighted to welcome back the thousands of enthusiastic students returning for the 2025-2026 academic year. Their presence not only enriches our local culture but also invigorates the economy, as businesses across the Lower Shore benefit from the energy and creativity these students bring. We appreciate the vital contributions they make to our community, helping to foster a dynamic and engaging environment for everyone.”

Ways to Participate in the Welcome College Students Program

If your business would like to welcome the students, here are several ways to show your appreciation!

1. DOWNLOAD & PRINT a poster at salisburyarea.com/2025-welcome-college-students-program/
to hang in your place of business. Posters are available in various versions and sizes.
2. PICK UP POSTERS from the chamber office at 200 E Church Street, Salisbury, MD 21801.
Posters will be available beginning August 4th.
3. TAKE A PHOTO holding the poster at your business and post to Facebook. Don’t forget to
mention the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce!
4. EMAIL THE PHOTO to amorgan@salisburyarea.com so we may recognize your business.
5. Local business owners that have marquees are encouraged to display the message “Welcome College Students.”

Questions? Contact Cindy Morgan Chambers at 410-749-0144 x 102 or email
amorgan@salisburyarea.com.