New Beginnings at CIIS: Fostering Community, Exploration, and Vision

At California Institute of Integral Studies’ fall 2025 new student orientation, 483 new students* began their academic journeys with opportunities for connection and reflection—reimagining what a holistic and integral approach to education could be.

This marked the second year our institute offered orientation in a hybrid format. Some students in fully online programs chose to attend in person, to visit campus, and meet others in their cohort and the broader CIIS community. Several students expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the flexibility to engage in both formats over the three-day event.

The new class gathered in Namaste Hall, Awakenings Café, and online for student and alumni panels, yoga sessions, mindfulness meditations, and creative workshops.

A standout session, “The Medicine of Beauty: Art, Self-Care and Activism in Pursuit of Equity,” hosted by the Division of Community Engagement and Belonging, invited students to explore healing practices and reflect on how they can shape their futures while contributing positively to their communities.

Special thanks to Dean of Students Shederick McClendon, the Student Affairs team, including Shmee Girratana, Lisa Webb and Dave Leech, and all members of the CIIS community who helped lead an impactful orientation.

To our new students: we’re honored to welcome you as the next generation of leaders, activists, healers, and changemakers.

*The 483 new registered CIIS students does not include the Applied Psychology M.A. cohort based in China.