Students returning to campus this fall will find a new twist on welcome programming. Ready, Set, Rowdy! begins Aug. 18 and stretches across four themed weeks designed to help Roadrunners connect with peers, faculty and staff.
The expanded approach replaces the single-week format with a monthlong rollout that encourages deeper engagement and helps students build lasting ties to the University’s academic and support services. Activities will include social mixers, resource fairs, service projects and student-led celebrations, giving Roadrunners multiple ways to get involved at different points in the semester. Plus, lots of free food.
“Our goal is to create a strong sense of belonging and help students build connections that will support them throughout their time at MSU Denver,” said Stephen Thomas Cucchiara, executive director of Student Life and Belonging. “By extending welcome programming to a full month, we are able to layer experiences that meet students where they are in their transition.”
Four weeks of engagement
- Welcome Week (Aug. 18-22) will feature socially focused activities that allow students to meet classmates and interact with faculty and staff members in an informal setting.
- Community Week (Aug. 25-29) will highlight opportunities to get involved with student organizations and build community on campus.
- Service to Success Week (Sept. 1-5) will introduce civic engagement, well-being resources and academic programs through open houses and events hosted by academic departments.
- Student Takeover Week (Sept. 8-12) will put student-led organizations at the forefront, offering peer-hosted events and services.
Events will include both scheduled and passive opportunities, giving students flexibility to engage based on their schedules. How faculty and staff members can offer support
How faculty and staff members can offer support
Get involved and promote the events to students, attend activities when possible and volunteer during the first week. Volunteer opportunities include greeting students, assisting with event logistics and supporting information tables.
Cucchiara emphasized that faculty and staff presence plays a vital role in building students’ sense of community.
“When students see their professors or advisors at these events, it signals that we are invested in their success, not just academically but as members of this campus community,” he said.
For more information and to view the event calendar, visit the Ready, Set, Rowdy! website.
