Welcome Week

New Student Move-In | 8 a.m.-noon

Visit the move-in day webpage for details about moving into your residence hall. For more information, contact Residence Life at reslife@su.edu.

Navigator | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Brandt Student Center

The Brandt Student Center is your one-stop shop for financial aid and work-study information, parking passes, books, IMlearning equipment, campus swag and more! For more information, contact Tamiya Earley at tamiya.earley@su.edu.

New Student Convocation | 4-6 p.m. | Wilkins Athletics & Events Center

Join us for Shenandoah University’s traditional Hornet welcome at new student convocation. Doors open for families at 3:15 p.m. Residential students will walk to the event with their Resident Assistants. Other students should plan to arrive no later than 3:30 p.m.

Residence Hall Meeting | 7-8 p.m.

Resident Assistants (RAs) will cover the rules, expectations, and policies that go along with living in campus housing. This is also a chance to meet peers in your building and the RAs who supervise you. This is a mandatory meeting for students living on campus. Questions? Contact Residence Life at reslife@su.edu.

Block Party | 8:30-11 p.m. | The Village Courtyard

Get ready for an epic night of bonding at the first-year block party! Mingle with your classmates while indulging in delicious sweet treats and refreshing mocktails from our favorite vendors. The DJ will keep the energy high with awesome tunes while you play fun games. Make sure to test your skills on the mechanical bull! For more information, reach out to Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Navigator | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Brandt Student Center

The Brandt Student Center is your one-stop shop for financial aid and work-study information, parking passes, books, IMlearning equipment, campus swag and more! For more information, contact Tamiya Earley at tamiya.earley@su.edu.

New Student Convocation | 4-6 p.m. | Wilkins Athletics & Events Center

Join us for Shenandoah University’s traditional Hornet welcome at new student convocation. Doors open for families at 3:15 p.m. Residential students will walk to the event with their Resident Assistants. Other students should plan to arrive no later than 3:30 p.m.

Campus Eats | 6-7 p.m. | Allen Dining Hall

Looking for a place to eat? Fill your plate with an array of options from the all-you-can-eat buffet located in Allen Dining Hall. This bustling campus eatery offers a diverse menu to satisfy every craving and dietary need. Swipe in with your meal plan or pay at the door for a meal in a lively student atmosphere.

Commuter Social | 7-8:30 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Room 123 (Borden Student Associations Center, aka B-SAC)

Connections are important, even on Day One! Join us for a fun and friendly social event to kick off Welcome Week! Meet your fellow incoming commuter students, enjoy sweet treats, and play exciting games. Review the Welcome Week schedule, explore options for commuters at the Brandt Student Center, and get answers to any last-minute questions. It’s the perfect way to start your campus journey and make new friends! Questions? Contact Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Block Party | 8:30-11 p.m. | The Village Courtyard

Get ready for an epic night of bonding at the first-year block party! Mingle with your classmates while indulging in delicious sweet treats and refreshing mocktails from our favorite vendors. The DJ will keep the energy high with awesome tunes while you play fun games. Make sure to test your skills on the mechanical bull! For more information, reach out to Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Academic Orientation | 9 a.m.-noon | Various locations

Meet faculty and administration from your academic programs. This is a required event for all first-year and transfer students.

First Year Seminar Meet & Greet | 1 p.m. | Intramural Field (Behind Brandt Student Center)

Get to know your First-Year Seminar (FYS) mentor and classmates at the Intramural Field located behind the Brandt Student Center and walk to the academic information fair together. This is a required event for all first-year students. For more information, contact Sarah Celec at scelec@su.edu.

Academic Fair | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Wilkins Athletics & Events Center

Connect with Shenandoah’s programs and services that will support your academic journey. Bring your sweet tooth and energy for this interactive and fun afternoon. This is a required event for all first-year and transfer students. For more information, contact Sarah Celec at scelec@su.edu.

Murder Mystery | 4-6 p.m. | Smith Library

Join us for a delectable evening of intrigue and suspense! Renowned chocolatier has met a tragic end—drowned in a vat of his own exquisite chocolate. Now, it’s up to you to unravel the mystery! As our esteemed guests, you will step into the shoes of investigators, interviewing a cast of suspicious characters, each with their own secrets and motives. Can you piece together the clues and identify the culprit before dessert is served? For more information, Contact Holli Phillips at hphillip@su.edu.

Transfer Student Social | 4-5 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Room 123 (Borden Student Associations Center, aka B-SAC)

Join us for the Transfer Student Social, a fun and relaxed event designed to help you connect with fellow transfer students, make new friends, and get to know your new home. We’ll have snacks, music and a chance to make a new connection to help you find your footing here at Shenandoah University! Questions? Reach out to Samantha Nicholson, vif83@su.edu.

Luau with Ice Cream Truck | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Location TBA

Spend some tropical time with your fellow new students! Enjoy grilled burgers, hot dogs, and tropical drinks. Play lawn games like corn hole, spike ball, limbo, Frisbee, and volleyball. Most of all, grab a frozen treat from the ice cream truck! Sponsored by Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM). All are welcome!

Country Line Dancing | 8-10 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room

Put on your boots and get ready to boogie! Country Line Dancing is the ultimate country dance party, and we’ve got the perfect mix of fun and instruction. Our talented dance instructor will guide you through easy-to-learn moves, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Expect high energy, great tunes, and plenty of laughs as we line dance, swing, and shimmy the night away! Come for the dancing, stay for the fun—let’s make it a night to remember! 

For more information, contact Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Work Study Orientation, Option 1 | 10-11 a.m. | Halpin-Harrison Hall, Stimpson Auditorium

Student Employment 101 – If you’re a work-study student, you’re required to attend one of these orientation sessions to learn more about the student employment program. This orientation will give you a solid footing as you begin employment at Shenandoah University and help you become the best employee you can be. Topics include the Work4SU online portal, paperwork for hire, time entry, and professionalism on the job. For more information, please contact studentwork@su.edu.

Work Study Orientation, Option 2 | 11 a.m.-noon| Halpin-Harrison Hall, Stimpson Auditorium

Student Employment 101 – If you’re a work-study student, you’re required to attend one of these orientation sessions to learn more about the student employment program. This orientation will give you a solid footing as you begin employment at Shenandoah University and help you become the best employee you can be. Topics include the Work4SU online portal, paperwork for hire, time entry, and professionalism on the job. For more information, please contact studentwork@su.edu.

Speed Friending | 1-2 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room

Looking to meet new people but tired of awkward small talk? Join ShenFirstGen for Speed Friending, a fast-paced, low-pressure way to connect with fellow students and maybe even find your new best friend. It’s like speed dating—but for friendship! You’ll have just a few minutes to chat with each person before moving to the next, so come ready with fun questions, an open mind, and your best smile. Questions? Reach out to Samantha Nicholson, vif83@su.edu.

Escape Room | 1-3 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Rooms 114 & 115

Work together to solve puzzles before time runs out! In this game, you’ll need to communicate, think critically, problem-solve, lead, resolve conflicts, and manage your time (just what you’ll need to do to succeed as a student and in your future career). Questions? Contact Corrie Eaton at corrie.eaton@su.edu. RSVP is required for this event.

Spiritual Life Open House | 3-4 p.m. | Goodson Chapel-Recital Hall

Join us to find out about student clubs & organizations related to Religious, Secular, and Spiritual Identities (RSSI’s) and connect with others who seek to do the same. Spiritual Life staff will also be there to respond to questions about programs and other offerings, such as service trips, Chaplains in the Residence Halls, Monthly Movie Nights, and worship services. For more information, please contact spirituallife@su.edu or call (540) 665-3485.

Dizzy Dash | 3-5 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Parking Lot D

Use your hands, a spoon, and even an adult tricycle to ferry your precious egg from “the party” to its warm bed back “home” – all while wearing drunk goggles at the Dizzy Dash! Be sure to bring your knowledge of alcohol safety and be ready to answer trivia questions as you navigate the course. Teams with the fastest times win prizes! Mocktails will be provided. Questions? Contact Joseph Cooper at jcooper18@su.edu. RSVPs are encouraged, but walk-ups are welcome.

Get the Scoop on Winchester | 3-5 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, SOAR Center

Hop on a bike and ride downtown for a scoop of ice cream. Get to know Winchester and cool down from the summer heat. Bikes and helmets provided. Participants purchase their own ice cream. Questions? Email suoutdoors@su.edu. Please RSVP.

Pool Party | 6-8 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, Pool

Grab your bathing suits and towels and cool off at the welcome week pool party on Friday, Aug. 29, from 6-8 p.m. at the Vaden Campus Commons (VCC) Pool. There will be music, food, games, and more. Questions? Contact Matt Levy at mlevy@su.edu.

Esports Last Chance Tryouts | 8-10 p.m. | Esports Arena

Are you interested in competing on an esports team? This will be your last chance to try out for a game to join a team for the Fall 2025 semester. Show up ready to play in the Esports Arena at 8 p.m.! Feel free to bring your own controller, mice, keyboards, etc., but there will be extras for players to borrow. Register using this Google Form. Questions? Contact Fernando Preciado-Leal at buo77@su.edu.

Games: Rocket League, Super Smash Bros Ultimate, Marvel Rivals, Overwatch 2, Street Fighter, Tekken, Sim Racing

Late Night Bingo | 10:30-11:30 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room

Come to the Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room for a few rounds of bingo! Win great prizes like gift cards, room necessities, and more! For more information, contact Campus Activities Network at can@su.edu.

Green Circle Coffee Walk | 9-10:30 a.m. | Meet at Brandt Student Center

If you’re a coffee fanatic, this is perfect for you! Walk along the Green Circle Trail and stop at local coffee shops along the way. Meet outside of the Brandt Student Center patio area at 8:30 a.m. Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring money for coffee. We will return to the Brandt Student Center no later than 11 a.m. Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu. RSVP using this Google Form.

Thrift Store Extravaganza | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Leadership Lawn

Do you love to shop? Do you love bargains? Do you love the earth? This event is for you! Reuse, upcycle, and combat fast fashion with this earth-friendly shopping spree to three Winchester-area thrift stores (SPCA, Goodwill, and Blue Ridge Hospice) for fun, funky looks and great prices! Meet at the Brandt Student Center’s surface lot, next to the Leadership Lawn. Sign up using the Google Sheet for this event hosted by Spiritual Life. Email dcelec@su.edu with any questions.

Water Tubing | 1-6 p.m. | River Campus at Cool Spring Battlefield

Spend your day with Shenandoah University’s SOAR team on a lazy river float down the Shenandoah River. Whether you have experience paddling or not, anyone is able to go on this guided trip. After some fun in the sun, you can enjoy a BBQ! The trip departs from the Brandt Student Center parking lot at 1 p.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Questions? Sports are limited! RSVP using this Google Form by Thursday, Aug. 22. Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu.

Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Esports Arena

Show off your skills in this Super Smash Bros Ultimate tournament while competing for fun prizes. During the event, you will have the opportunity to meet Esports staff and student leaders to learn about how to get involved with the Esports program. Attend the event as a competitor or a spectator. Sign-ups will be taken at the door. Check-in opens at 2 p.m. For any questions, email Alyssa Duran at alyssa.duran@su.edu.

Lotería Game Night | 6-7 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Room 123 (Borden Student Associations Center, aka B-SAC)

Play a few rounds of Lotería while enjoying some snacks. Lotería – the Spanish word for lottery – is a traditional game of chance, often referred to as Mexican bingo, in which players use illustrated cards. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of the games. RSVP using this Google Form. For more information, contact mosaiccenter@su.edu.

Hype | 8-9:30 p.m. | Armstrong Concert Hall

You’ve seen a hypnosis show before. You’ve seen a magic show before. Now, experience HYPE.

HYPE is a brand-new, thrilling combination of modern magic and mind-bending hypnosis mixed into a unique interactive experience for your audience.

HYPE is hosted and curated by Noah Sonie, a full-time performer based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Noah has years of experience performing and showcasing his unique perspective and high energy style on stages across America. During the show students will experience a blend of magic, mindreading, and hypnosis that will weave them through moments of laughter, awe, and pure confusion. All wrapped up in a stylistic, modern, fast paced show.

In 2021 Noah was featured on the hit CW show, Penn and Teller: Fool us.

Questions? Contact Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Nature Journaling & Mindfulness | 10-11 a.m. | Sarah’s Glen

Take a moment to disconnect from busy schedules and enjoy Sarah’s Glen, one of our campus’s natural spaces. Join Shenandoah Outdoor Adventure & Recreation (SOAR) in a mindfulness journey while we spend an hour natural journaling. Journals and art materials supplied. Questions? Email SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu.

Shopping Shuttles | 1-5 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Patio

Need some additional items for your room? Hop on the free shuttle to explore Winchester Commons (Target, T.J. Maxx, Famous Footwear, PetSmart, Dollar Tree). Vans leave the Brandt Student Center at 1, 2, 3, and 4 p.m. and pick up at Target at 2, 3, 4, and 5 p.m.Questions? Email Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Rise Against Hunger | 1-3 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room

Rise Against Hunger is a growing national global movement to end hunger through sustainable partnerships that empower communities and nourish lives. Participants work collaboratively to package 10,000 meals that will be shipped to places in need. All students, staff and faculty are invited to package meals from 1-3 p.m. in the Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room. Please sign up on HelperHelper by Aug. 30. For more information, contact the Center for Civic Engagement at rgibson@su.edu.

Catholic Mass & New School Year’s Eve Party | 4-5:45 p.m. | Goodson Chapel-Recital Hall

Come to the first Catholic Sunday Mass of the school year! After 4 p.m. Mass, celebrate the New School Year’s Eve! Enjoy a southern-style BBQ, dessert, and fizzy drinks to ring in the new school year! Everyone receives a free t-shirt and other swag. Win raffle prizes and meet fellow students and Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) members!  Sponsored by CCM. All are welcome!

The Buzz | 6-8 p.m. | Wilkins Athletics & Events Center 

Before you dive into college life, there’s one session you can’t miss. The Buzz is a REQUIRED event for all new students (including transfers), and it covers the real stuff — like consent, campus conduct, alcohol, bias and discrimination, roommate conflict, and more.

It’s not just another lecture — it’s your guide to surviving (and thriving!) at SU. For more information, please contact Sarah Celec at scelec112@su.edu.

Sunday Evening Chapel Kick-Off | 7-8 p.m. | Goodson Chapel-Recital Hall

Late Night at SU | 8-10 p.m. | Brandt Student Center

You won’t want to miss the excitement as you stop by the Build Your Own Bear workshop to create your very own cuddly companion to remember the night. Plus, enjoy a late-night buffet and plenty of other surprises and activities. Mark your calendars for a night of enjoyment and creativity at SU! Questions? Reach out to Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Dancing & Donuts | 10-11 a.m. | Aikens Stadium

Join the Student Government Association (SGA) for dancing and donuts with a morning Zumba class. SGA is providing the donuts. Show out and show off your dancing skills and meet your SGA executive board. Questions? Contact the Student Government Association at sga@su.edu.

Stream Clean-Up |10 a.m.-noon | Abrams Creek

Clean up Abrams Creek with Spiritual Life on Monday, Sept. 1! Wear clothes you are comfortable getting dirty, throw on some sunscreen, and clean up the banks of Abrams Creek. The group meets at Sarah’s Glen at 10 a.m. Work gloves will be provided. For more information, contact DeLyn Celec at dcelec@su.edu.

Labor Day Cookout | 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Family Kitchen at Allen Dining Hall

Join us for a laid-back and delicious Labor Day cookout hosted by Shenandoah Home! This is the perfect chance to relax, grab some great food, and connect with fellow students in a fun and friendly atmosphere. We’ll have classic cookout favorites, sweet treats, yard games, music, and plenty of good vibes to go around. Don’t miss this opportunity to kick back and celebrate the start of the semester. Questions? Contact Alex Johnson at alexandra.johnson@su.edu.

Cornhole Tournament | 1-2:30 p.m. | Aikens Stadium

Get your partner and come out to the Welcome Week Cornhole Tournament.  Pre-registration is required using iMLeagues. Don’t have a partner? Register as a free agent, and we will do our best to pair you up. Who knows, you might meet your new best friend! Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams. All participants will be required to use Campus Recreation & Wellness bags and boards. Each member of the winning team will receive a $50 gift card. Each member of the runner-up team will receive a $25 gift card. The tournament format will be determined based on the number of teams registered.  For more information, please contact Matt Levy at mlevy@su.edu.

Field Day | 2-4 p.m. | Intramural Field, Behind Brandt Student Center

Join us behind the Brandt Student Center for an action-packed afternoon of fun, friends, and fierce (but friendly) competition! Hosted by the Shenandoah Student Leadership Academy (SULA), this event is all about welcoming new students to campus with games, field challenges, music, and more. Don’t miss your chance to win big in our raffle giveaway—just by showing up, you’re entered to win awesome prizes! Come cheer on your peers, make new connections, and kick off the year the right way. Questions? Contact SULA at sula@su.edu.

LGBTQ+ Resource Center Grand Opening | 4-5 p.m. | Lavendar Lounge, Cooley Hall

The Office of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity proudly invites students, faculty, staff, and community members to the grand opening of its new Lavender Lounge in Cooley Hall. This milestone event celebrates the university’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity, providing a welcoming space for all. Attendees will explore the center’s vibrant facilities, meet the dedicated staff, and learn about the wide range of support services and programs available. Guests can participate in interactive activities, connect with campus organizations, and discover upcoming events designed to foster a sense of belonging. Light refreshments will be served throughout the celebration. Join us as we open the doors to a new chapter of community, support, and pride at Shenandoah University. Questions? Contact Mannie Brown at ebrown1@su.edu.

Learn Your Campus | 6-8 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Rotunda

Set yourself up for success! Come to the Brandt Student Center where Welcome Week leaders will walk you through campus to help you locate your first day classes! Come prepared with your schedule. Questions? Contact Brooke Moses at brooke.moses@su.edu.

Trip Drop Party | 7:30-9 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, SOAR Center

Find out what trips Shenandoah Outdoor Adventure Recreation (SOAR) has planned for the fall semester and be the first to sign up! You’ll be eligible for free trips and prizes and there will be free food for all! Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu. RSVP using this Google Form.

Outdoor Movie Night | 8:30-10:30 p.m. | Sarah’s Glen

Grab your blanket, bring your friends, and enjoy a fun-filled evening under the stars with a classic movie. This free event is the perfect way to relax, meet new people, and celebrate the start of a new semester. Popcorn and good vibes are on us!. Rain location is the Brandt Student Center, Ferrari Room. Questions? Contact Tamiya Earley at tearley@su.edu.

Ask Me! Campaign | 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Have a question about building locations, shuttles, or anything about the Shenandoah experience? Stop by one of the Ask Me! tables set up around campus and staffed by university faculty and staff members. This campaign is sponsored by Student Affairs. For more information, contact Amy Sine at asine@su.edu.

Involvement Fair | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Leadership Lawn

Come to the Brandt Student Center, Leadership Lawn (the grass area by Parking Lot D) to learn about and join various clubs and organizations. Students will receive an event passport to complete and enter into a drawing for an Amazon gift card! Rain location is inside the Brandt Student Center. For more information about this event, please contact the Student Government Association at sga@su.edu.