UIW Class of 2028 Takes Flight

On Saturday, Aug. 31, UIW’s newest students took flight as they participated in the University’s beloved football traditions, from Flight of the Cardinal to the highly anticipated First-Year Flight.

Each year, during the first home football game of the season, the University’s newest additions to the Nest are invited to run across the football field alongside UIW’s mascot, Red the Cardinal, leading the way for the football team. This year, 200 first-year students stormed the football field, sporting UIW jerseys with the number 28 to introduce themselves as the proud UIW graduating class of 2028.

Victoria Gonzalez, Campus Engagement coordinator, shared that when students get involved at University events, they gain the opportunity to enrich their educational experience, making their time in college more well-rounded and fulfilling. Participating in events like First-Year Flight can provide a sense of community and belonging, enhancing personal growth, academic success, networking opportunities, social skills and more.

“My favorite part of this tradition is being able to collaborate with the Office of New Student Programs and working together to unite all our First-Year Students in participating in this event,” shared Gonzalez. “Being able to see all of our students happy and excited to be a part of this tradition and having the opportunity to put this together to them to our University, their new home away from home, is by far my favorite part.”

In addition to UIW’s football team winning their first game of the season, the growing and joyful University family made the night even more victorious.Welcome home, class of 2028!