WATERVILLE — A number of local students have enrolled at Colby College in Waterville this fall.

Before classes began Sept. 4, they took part in a weeklong orientation that included an introduction to academic and intellectual life at Colby, participation in an outdoor education trip and an address by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Professor of Sociology and African-American Studies Cheryl Townsend Gilkes at Colby’s 202nd Convocation.

Local students enrolling for fall classes at Colby College are:

• Damien R. Haynes of Biddeford, a graduate of Biddeford High School and the son of Alison Petrin of Biddeford.

• Brianna J. Michaud-Nolan of Wells, a graduate of Wells High School and the daughter of Paul and Heather Michaud-Nolan of Wells.

• Grace C. Rayer of Kennebunk, a graduate of Blair Academy and the daughter of Benjamin and Melissa Rayer of Kennebunk.

• Katie-Marie Roy of Saco, a graduate of Thornton Academy and the daughter of Michael and Robin Roy of Saco.

The Class of 2023 was selected from the largest and most academically qualified pool of applications in Colby’s 207-year history. This class will be benefit from DavisConnects, Colby’s innovative program that supports all students in their pursuit of independent and collaborative research, global experiences, and internships to prepare them for postgraduate success.

The class is the second to enter Colby with the College’s pledge that an admitted student whose family income is $60,000 or less, with assets typical for that income range, will attend with no parent or guardian financial contribution. This is just one part of the Colby Commitment, which provides that each admitted student’s demonstrated financial need will be met without student loans.

Founded in 1813, Colby is one of America’s most selective colleges. Serving only undergraduates, Colby offers a rigorous academic program rooted in deep exploration of ideas and close interaction with world-class faculty scholars. Students pursue intellectual passions, choosing among 58 majors or developing their own.

Colby’s innovative and ambitious campaign, Dare Northward, will support deeper connections between the College and the world and a fully inclusive experience for all Colby students.

Colby is home to a community of 2,000 dedicated and diverse students from more than 65 countries. Its Waterville, Maine, location provides unique access to world-class research institutions and civic engagement experiences.