Annual Roadrunner Rally introduces new, returning students to life at Crafton Hills College - Crafton Hills College

Publish Date: Aug. 12, 2025

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For Portia Henderson, Crafton Hills College is more than just a campus and classrooms—it’s a place to discover community.

“You feel like it’s home,” she said between greeting new students during the college’s annual Roadrunner Rally on Aug. 12. “When I first started, I was always so nervous. But coming back to school 20 years later, no matter which department I worked with, everyone was just super helpful. And that’s one of the things that makes you feel like this is such a well put together type of community.”

Held inside the Crafton Center, the annual event introduced new and returning students to campus life by highlighting many of the campus resources available to them.

Students and their guests did not leave the rally empty-handed. Upon entrance, guests were greeted with a friendly “hello” from faculty and staff and offered a complimentary Crafton T-shirt. Bucket hats, candy, sandwiches from Jersey Mike’s, and program flyers were also there for the taking. 

Meet-and-greets with a diverse pool of Crafton programs and services were also event highlights and included:

  • Crafton Hills College Alumni Association
  • Men’s and Women’s Water Polo teams
  • Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country runners
  • MESA
  • Pride Club
  • Dungeons and Dragons Club

“We know that people who feel like they belong are much more likely to do better academically, to participate in programs and take advantage of resources available,” said Crafton Director of Student Life Ericka Paddock. “The Roadrunner Rally is our way of being a warm hug and saying, ‘We are so happy to have you. Welcome to the family.’”

Crafton Hills College has a 50-plus year legacy of transforming lives through education with its mission to inspire, uplift and create opportunities. Currently, the Yucaipa-based institution offers a wide-range of degree and certification programs in areas like fire technology, emergency medical services, social services, and transfer to universities. 

To learn how to get started creating your own Crafton Story, go to www.craftonhills.edu.