Welcome Week at Shenandoah University
#SUWelcomeHome
August 26 – 31, 2026
Welcome Week is designed to help you become acclimated with campus life, settle in and meet new people. It’s also a time to kick back and have fun! Welcome Week will run from Arrival Day on Wednesday, August 26, to the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 31. We can’t wait to help you discover all that SU has to offer!
Follow Shenandoah University Student Life on Instagram for posts about Welcome Week events!
Before classes begin on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, you will be busy with academic sessions, a few mandatory meetings, and many fun gatherings. If you have any questions, contact the Division of Student Affairs at (540) 665-4863 or studentlife@su.edu.
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. Students are asked to arrive no later than 3:30 p.m.
Security:
SECURITY UPDATE – CLEAR BAGS ONLY POLICY: To ensure event safety and expedite entry, only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag) will be allowed into the Convocation ceremony site . This applies to all individuals entering the Convocation site. Exceptions for medical reasons may be considered. Please reach out to Campus Safety (safety@su.edu) prior to the event for consideration of your request.
These clear bags are available at our Campus Bookstore.
10″ x 6″ Clutch-style Bag | 
12″ x 12″ Tote Bag |
PLEASE NOTE – In an effort to maintain a safe and secure environment for the entire Shenandoah University community, all persons (graduates, guests, leadership, faculty, staff, contractors, and vendors) will be subject to bag checks and being screened with a handheld metal detecting device prior to entry into the facility. To aid in the screening process, all items in your pockets should be removed and held in your hands while being screened. Everyone is encouraged to leave any unnecessary items securely locked inside their vehicles.
- Prohibited Items:
- Aerosols to include silly string
- Alcoholic beverages
- Animals other than service/ guide dogs
- Bicycles
- Balloons
- Coolers or containers
- Drinks or bottles (water will be available for free in the building)
- Outside Food (refreshments will be available for sale at the concession stand)
- Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems
- Fireworks or explosives
- Folding chairs
- Glass, thermal, or metal containers
- Hoverboards/skateboards
- Illegal drugs
- Illegal weapons including concealed weapons are prohibited on the campus
- Laser pointers
- Packages
- Structures
- Supports for signs, placards, balloons
- Toy guns
- Any other item determined to be a potential hazard by the University
- Allowable Items*:
- Binoculars
- Cameras
- Cellphones
- Seat cushions
- Diaper Bags
- Strollers/wheelchairs/mobility scooters
- Baby bottles and other items that are needed for your child
*These items are allowable as long as they do not fall under our prohibited items list. Be prepared to have additional security checks on these items when proceeding through security.
Residence Hall Meeting | 7-8:30 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.
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. Students are asked to arrive no later than 3:30 p.m.
Security:
SECURITY UPDATE – CLEAR BAGS ONLY POLICY: To ensure event safety and expedite entry, only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag) will be allowed into the Convocation ceremony site. This applies to all individuals entering the Convocation site. Exceptions for medical reasons may be considered. Please reach out to Campus Safety (safety@su.edu) prior to the event for consideration of your request.
These clear bags are available at our Campus Bookstore.
|
10″ x 6″ Clutch-style Bag |
12″ x 12″ Tote Bag |
PLEASE NOTE – In an effort to maintain a safe and secure environment for the entire Shenandoah University community, all persons (graduates, guests, leadership, faculty, staff, contractors, and vendors) will be subject to bag checks and being screened with a handheld metal detecting device prior to entry into the facility. To aid in the screening process, all items in your pockets should be removed and held in your hands while being screened. Everyone is encouraged to leave any unnecessary items securely locked inside their vehicles.
- Prohibited Items:
- Aerosols to include silly string
- Alcoholic beverages
- Animals other than service/ guide dogs
- Bicycles
- Balloons
- Coolers or containers
- Drinks or bottles (water will be available for free in the building)
- Outside Food (refreshments will be available for sale at the concession stand)
- Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems
- Fireworks or explosives
- Folding chairs
- Glass, thermal, or metal containers
- Hoverboards/skateboards
- Illegal drugs
- Illegal weapons including concealed weapons are prohibited on the campus
- Laser pointers
- Packages
- Structures
- Supports for signs, placards, balloons
- Toy guns
- Any other item determined to be a potential hazard by the University
- Allowable Items*:
- Binoculars
- Cameras
- Cellphones
- Seat cushions
- Diaper Bags
- Strollers/wheelchairs/mobility scooters
- Baby bottles and other items that are needed for your child
*These items are allowable as long as they do not fall under our prohibited items list. Be prepared to have additional security checks on these items when proceeding through security.
Commuter Social | 7-8:30 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Game Room
Connections are important, even on day one! 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.
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.
Conservatory Students
9 – 11 a.m. Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre
11 a.m. – Noon Students break into smaller groups
- Composition: Ruebush 139
- Dance: Shingleton Hall, Ewing Studio
- Musical Theatre and Musical Theatre Accompanying: Glaize Studio Theatre
- Acting: Hal Herman Lab Theatre
- Theatre Design and Production: Ruebush 114
- Stage Management and Production: Ruebush 245
- Music Education: Ruebush 209
- Vocal Performance: Ruebush 148
- Instrumental Performance: Ruebush 146
- Piano Performance: Ruebush 245
- MPRT, CAA.BA & Jazz & Contemporary Music: Ruebush 128
- Contemporary Musicianship and Entrepreneur Development: Ruebush 113
- Music Therapy: Ruebush 207
School of Nursing Students:
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Henkel Hall, Room 105
School of Business Students:
9 a.m. – noon Halpin Harrison Hall, Stimpson Auditorium
College of Arts and Sciences Students:
9 – 11:30 a.m. Armstrong Concert Hall
Exploratory Studies Students (undeclared majors):
9 – 11:30 a.m. Third floor of Smith Library
First Year Seminar 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 fys@su.edu.
Luau with Ice Cream Truck | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | The Village Courtyard
Spend some tropical time with your fellow new students! Enjoy grilled burgers, hot dogs, and tropical drinks. Play lawn games like corn hole, Spikeball, limbo, Frisbee, and volleyball. Most of all, grab your frozen treat from our ice cream truck! Sponsored by Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM). All are welcome!
Transfer Student Social | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Pruitt Health & Life Sciences Building, Halpin Rotunda
Visit the transfer student social for a fun and relaxed event designed to help you connect with fellow transfer students, make new friends, and get to know your new home. Enjoy 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.
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. | Smith Library, Third Floor
Looking to meet new people but tired of awkward small talk? Join Shen First Gen 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 & 118
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.
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 also be provided. Questions? Contact Joseph Cooper at jcooper18@su.edu. RSVPs are encouraged but walk-ups are welcome.
Get the Scoop on Winchester | 3 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, SOAR Center
Hop on a bike and ride downtown to get 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 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, Pool
Grab your bathing suits and towels and come cool off at the annual Welcome Week pool party! Dance to music, enjoy food, play games, and more. Questions? Contact Matt Levy at mlevy@su.edu.
Field Day | 6-8 p.m. | Intramural Field
Hang out 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. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win big in our raffle giveaway—just by showing up, you’re entered to win awesome prizes! Cheer on your peers, make new connections, and kick off the year the right way. Questions? Contact SULA at sula@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 2026 term. 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. | Henkel Hall, Hester Auditorium
Experience one of Shenandoah University’s most beloved traditions for an unforgettable night of Bingo! Whether you’re looking to continue a long-standing SU legacy or just want to enjoy a high-energy evening with friends, this is the place to be. We’re giving away a massive variety of prizes, ranging from gift cards to essential room necessities and everything in between. Don’t miss your chance to win big and be part of the campus spirit; for more information, please contact the Campus Activities Network at can@su.edu.
Green Circle Coffee Walk | 9-10:30 a.m. | Meet at Brandt Student Center, Patio
If you’re a coffee fanatic this is perfect for you! Walk along the Winchester 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. Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu.
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, enjoy a cookout! The trip departs from the Brandt Student Center parking lot at 1 p.m. and returns at 6 p.m. Sports are limited! RSVP using this Google Form by Thursday, Aug. 20. Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu.
Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Esports Arena
Show off your competition skills in this Super Smash Bros Ultimate tournament while competing for fun prizes. During the event, meet esports staff and student leaders to learn about how to get involved further with the esports program. Attend this 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.
Cornhole Tournament | 3-5 p.m. | Aikens Stadium
Get your partner and come out to the welcome week cornhole tournament. Register by Friday, August 28 at 5 p.m., on IMLeagues. Don’t have a partner? Register as a free agent, and we will do our best to pair you up. 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
Murder Mystery | 6-8 p.m. | Hazel Pruitt Armory, Collaboratory
Whether you’re a seasoned sleuth or a first-time suspect making your investigative debut, we need your help to untangle this tale of crime and betrayal. For more information, Contact Kristy Fedyk at kristy.fedyk@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.
Trip Drop Party | 3-5 p.m. | Vaden Campus Commons, SOAR Center
Ready to explore? Join SOAR for the fall term launch! Discover the upcoming excursions and be the first to snag a spot. What’s in it for you? Be first in line for fall trips and score free prizes. Test your skills on a climbing wall and enjoy free food! Questions? Contact SOAR at suoutdoors@su.edu.
Learn Your Campus with SGA | 6-8 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Rotunda
Set yourself up for success! Come to the Brandt Student Center, where members of the Student Government Association 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
Outdoor Movie Night | 8-10:30 p.m. | Sarah’s Glen
Grab your blanket, bring your friends, and enjoy a fun-filled evening under the stars with a classic movie. Relax, meet new people, and celebrate the start of a new semester. 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. For more information, contact Amy Sine at asine@su.edu.
Open House – Office of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity | 5-6:30 p.m. | Brandt Student Center, Mosaic Center (room 120)
Discover your community and find your ‘home away from home!’ Join the Mosaic Center for Diversity, the Lavender Lounge, and the [Not Just] Women’s Center to explore the inclusive campus resources, advocacy, and social spaces designed just for YOU. See how Shenandoah values your unique story. Stay for the whole time or drop in at your own pace—we can’t wait to meet you! For more information, contact Mannie Brown (lavenderlounge@su.edu) or Dahlia Ashford (dashford@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.