Last modified: Thursday, August 23, 2007
Welcome Week 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22, 2007
Photo by: Chris Meyer
Lynn Patterson (left) and her husband Bob (right) talk with IU President Michael McRobbie as they help their son Nick move into Briscoe Quad.
Bloomington, Ind. -- Indiana University Office of Orientation Programs welcomed students to campus on new-student Move-In Day today (Aug. 22), by kicking off Proud Traditions: Welcome Week 2007. Welcome Week is designed to connect newcomers with the people, places and resources of Indiana University.
"It is planned with the assumption that, when students feel more comfortable and connected with their surroundings, they can focus more easily, they know where to go for assistance, and they feel more at home. As such, they are more likely to succeed," says Melanie Payne, associate director, Orientation Programs and coordinator of the week's events.
After moving into their new residence center homes, students participate in activities of IU Welcome Week, some of which have become true orientation traditions:
The Freshman Induction Ceremony in the IU Auditorium, Aug. 22 (Wednesday), is the kick-off event which welcomes new students into the academic world of IU. The ceremony is presided over by President Michael McRobbie and Provost Karen Hanson.
CultureFest, on Aug. 23 (Thursday), celebrates the cultural diversity on the IU campus. CultureFest 2007 includes a program focusing on the stories of Indiana University as new students are introduced to the culture of IU. The featured speaker, Kevin Wanzer, has inspired students for two decades to live with authenticity, to connect with each other and to make positive choices. Following the speakers, students will take part in an outdoor festival, complete with food and music from different cultures, interactive games and more.
Tradition and Spirit of IU introduces students to IU Athletic culture.
Traditions and Spirit of IU, in Memorial Stadium, Aug. 24 (Friday), offers new students a "spirited" welcome, including everything from learning the official fight song and cheers of IU athletics to meeting coaches. The public is invited to attend this high energy event.
A newer feature of IU Welcome Week is designed to help student connect with the Bloomington area. New Student Service Day matches new students with local service agencies for a morning of service. Scheduled for Aug. 25 (Saturday), students meet at Whittenberger Auditorium for their assignments. The event concludes with reflection and celebration.
Other highlights include RecFest, on Aug. 24, which introduces students to the many services and clubs sports through IU's Division of Recreational Sports, and on the same day The Taste of the Union, an event giving students a chance to explore the Indiana Memorial Union while enjoying music, food and activities.
In addition, IU Welcome Week offers a focus on academics, IU resources, and opportunities for involvement through events such as Academic Orientation, Open Houses, residence center events, social events and more.
Classes begin on Aug. 27 (Monday) and for two days, new students needing directions will see IU faculty, staff and student volunteer greeters in high traffic areas throughout campus. Greeters will be armed with friendly faces and campus maps.
