Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Rowdy Rally, the official convocation and welcome event for students, is back Aug. 16, and this year’s edition promises to level up the campus experience. Designed to ignite Roadrunner pride and build community, the day marks the formal start of the academic year for new students and facilitates elements of orientation, including campus tours and connection points to student services.
“Convocation is more than just a welcome event; it’s a pivotal moment where students begin to see themselves as part of the University community,” said Stephen Thomas Cucchiara, executive director of Student Life and Belonging.
“When faculty and staff show up for students at the very start of their journey, it sends a powerful message: ‘We’re here to support you from Day One to graduation.’ That connection can make all the difference in a student’s sense of belonging and success.”
Event activities
The day will kick off on the Jordan Student Success Building Lawn with Rowdy & Ready, inviting students to explore the campus, locate classrooms, access student services and print schedules, all before classes even begin.
After the introductory activities, attendees will gather for the Welcome Ceremony at the Auraria Event Center, featuring inspiring remarks from University leaders and keynote speaker Bianca Machado. The MSU Denver alumna and learning manager’s journey as a first-generation Latinx student underscores resilience and transformation.
The day culminates in the Roadrunner Carnival, a high-energy afternoon on the JSSB Lawn filled with food, games, music, student-organization booths and festive giveaways complete with airbrush Tshirts, novelty inflatables and swag to celebrate the start of a shared road ahead.
What’s new this year?
Traditionally held on a weekday, the Rowdy Rally will take place this year on a Saturday to better accommodate students balancing work and family commitments. The shift also supports MSU Denver’s broader goal of creating a more vibrant, engaged campus community beyond regular class hours, said Cucchiara.
Additionally, this year’s event will feature:
1. From high-five to handshake
In a new tradition symbolizing the student journey, MSU Denver President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., will personally greet attendees with a high-five as they enter the event. At graduation, students will then shake hands with the president to close out their academic career.
2. Enhanced campus navigation and support
Rowdy & Ready now leans into tangible support: expanded student-service access, additional campus tour guides and live schedule-printing stations mean less first-day stress — and more confidence.
3. Bigger, bolder carnival
Expect a more immersive postceremony experience, with larger entertainment zones, more student-organization kiosks and upgraded giveaways turning the occasion into a true community celebration.
“For new students, Rowdy Rally isn’t just tradition; it’s a launchpad into campus life. Returning Roadrunners benefit too, reconnecting through energizing events that reinforce school spirit while tapping into support services,” said Cucchiara.
Get involved: volunteer opportunities for faculty and staff
Join the fun and engage with students by signing up to support the event or host a carnival table. Sign up by Aug. 1 to participate.
