UIW Gears Up for Move-In Days and Welcome Week

As the summer begins to wind to a close, a buzz of excitement fills the air at the University of the Incarnate Word. Students from all over the world are eagerly preparing for Welcome Week, the annual series of events that mark the start of a new academic year at the Nest.

From the moment they arrive on campus, new and returning students alike are greeted with a warm welcome. Faculty and staff members are on hand to offer guidance and support, helping them to settle in and find their way around.

But Welcome Week is more than just a chance to get acclimated. It's a time to make new friends, explore interests, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's attending a Cardinal Crawl, enjoying delicious treats with friends, or simply lounging on Dubuis Lawn with fellow students, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this exciting week. Take a look below at what fun is in store for our Cardinals and UIW community to kick off another great year at the Nest!

Fall 2023 Calendar of Events

Thursday, August 17

Pinning Ceremony | 6 p.m. | Rosenberg Sky Room

UIW welcomes all first-year students and their families to the annual Pinning Ceremony, a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of one’s academic journey at UIW. This event is a special opportunity to celebrate new students’ arrivals and officially welcome them to the UIW community.

During the ceremony, each student will receive a gold University lapel pin to symbolize their commitment to academic excellence and connection to the UIW family. This event is open to all new students and their families.

Saturday, August 19

Cardinal Crawl | 7-9 p.m. | Convocation Center

Looking for Saturday night plans? Join Residence Life at the annual Cardinal Crawl! Students will travel back in time to the 90s with good music, fun arcade games, and all things glow in the dark. Cardinal Crawl will take place in the Convocation Center from 7-9 p.m.

Sunday, August 20

Welcome Mass | 11 a.m. | Chapel of the Incarnate Word

UIW welcomes new and returning students to a new school year by inviting them and their families to the first Mass of the fall semester at the Chapel of the Incarnate Word. The Welcome Mass is held annually the Sunday before the fall semester starts at 11 a.m.

Monday, Aug. 21, 2023

Welcome Back: Food Truck | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.| Friendship Garden

The Office of Campus Engagement will provide a food truck that offers free lunch for students. A photobooth will also be available for fun back to school photo opportunities.

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023

First Year Engagement BBQ | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Dubuis Lawn

If you're hungry and a first-year student, don't look any further! Join First Year Engagement for a BBQ during your first week of classes! Get to learn more about how you can get involved in your first year here at UIW, meet UIW faculty and administrators, and make memories with new friends!

Sweet Treats with Campus Engagement | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | SEC Concourse

Have a craving for something sweet? Join Campus Engagement for a sweet treat and learn how they can help you get involved this school year.

Greek Life & Club Sports | 5 - 7 p.m. | Friendship Garden

Hang out with members of UIW’s Greek Life and Club Sports! Enjoy free BBQ, play games, and learn more about what you can do to get involved.

Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023

Student Organization Fair | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Westgate Circle

Want to get involved? Learn more about our many student organizations here at UIW.

Campus Activities Board (CAB) Event | 4 - 7 p.m. | Dubuis Lawn

Take a little breather from a long day of classes with fun activities on Dubuis Lawn with UIW’s Campus Activities Board!

Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023

Welcome Back: River Jam | 6 - 9 p.m. | Rosenberg Sky Room

Come out and enjoy some of the best hits with your new UIW community and friends! Enjoy free food, beverages, and more!

Friday, Aug. 25, 2023

Build-A-Cardinal | 1 - 3 p.m. | SEC Ballroom

Join us at our Build-A-Cardinal Workshop to make your very own stuffed cardinal who can be your study buddy for the semester!