This year, more than 1,500 students are registered for Week of Welcome events. The activities are focused on making students feel at home and a part of the #MarshallUFamily. Several new learning sessions will also be offered, aimed at enhancing the student experience.
“We now offer workshops on essential topics such as online safety, Design Thinking and tips for securing on-campus jobs,” said Marcie Simms, vice president of intercultural and student affairs. “We’re also incorporating local events like the Huntington Art Walk, to encourage students to explore downtown Huntington and discover the vital connection between our campus and the community.”
WOW check in and residence hall move-in for freshmen begins on Tuesday, Aug. 13 and continues through Wednesday, Aug. 14.
Activities kick off on Tuesday evening with breakfast and bingo in the Memorial Student Center from 7-9 p.m. On Wednesday, activities include learning about the university’s online platform for classes, brunch, an ROTC obstacle course, campus tours to help locate classrooms, a Marshall for All open house and sessions on online safety and Design Thinking. The day’s events conclude with a block party at Marshall’s Recreation Center from 7-9 p.m.
On Thursday, Aug. 15, students will begin their first class at Marshall, UNI 100. “Freshman First Class” is an introduction to the academic structures and expectations of college life. Those who successfully complete the course will earn one hour of elective credit. A variety of classes fill the day including college sessions for individual paths of study. At 6:30 p.m., students will pose for the iconic freshman “M” photo on the football field before traveling to Hoops Family Field to watch Marshall’s Women’s Soccer team take on Morehead State at 7 p.m. “Night at the Joan” begins at Joan C. Edwards Stadium at 9 p.m., with a screening of “We Are Marshall.” The event is free and open to the public.
“We are thrilled to open the Night at the Joan tradition to the entire Huntington community,” said Simms. “The event invites everyone to bring a blanket or chair to Joan C. Edwards Stadium to enjoy a screening of “We Are Marshall” on the big screen, while sitting on the football field.”
On Friday, Aug. 16, the Class of 2028 will celebrate the beginning of their Marshall journey with a class photo at 10:45 a.m. around the John Marshall statue, followed by a united walk across campus to attend Freshman Convocation at 11:15 a.m., which will be held this year at Marshall’s Rec Center. On Friday afternoon, students will have the opportunity to “Find Their Herd” as dozens of gatherings are scheduled around campus to allow students to meet others who share similar interests.
“WOW provides new students an excellent opportunity to immerse themselves in our campus culture and traditions, which are essential to being part of the Marshall family,” said Simms. “By fostering connections and a sense of belonging early on, WOW sets the stage for a fulfilling college experience.”
On Friday evening, students are invited to attend the Downtown Huntington Art Walk, beginning at 5 p.m., followed by Herd Rally from 7-9 p.m., Marshall’s annual pep rally event, featuring Marshall Athletics, the Marching Thunder and music by Madhouse. The event is part of 9th Street Live, one of Huntington’s summer concert series held every Friday on 9th St. between 3rd Ave. and 4th Ave.
Week of Welcome continues through the weekend with a full slate of events. On Saturday, Aug. 17, Rec Fest will be held at the Marshall Rec Center from Noon-3 p.m.
“RecFest offers a unique chance for attendees to engage with local businesses, find hidden gems and learn about campus student organizations,” said RecFest Coordinator Karianne Fischer. “It’s a free event, and I encourage everyone to come and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and great opportunities.”
RecFest is free and open to the public. More than 80 vendors are registered for the event, which includes giveaways, free food and activities. The first 200 people in line will receive a free Marshall Rec tote bag. On Saturday afternoon, students are also invited to enjoy a men’s soccer game as Marshall takes on Winthrop at Hoops Family Field at 1 p.m.
WOW events wrap-up on Saturday evening with a carnival on the Memorial Student Center Plaza from 6-8 p.m. and a gameshow in the Don Morris Room at 8:30 p.m.
Fall 2024 classes begin on Monday, Aug. 19.
In addition to many giveaways at events during WOW, Gabe’s and PepsiCo Inc. will sponsor a special raffle for any student who has moved into a residence hall or any commuter students participating in WOW. In a random drawing, the grand prize winner will receive a $200 gift card to Gabe’s and their residence hall room will be furnished with free Frito Lay and Pepsi products, courtesy of PepsiCo. Inc. In addition, Gabe’s will also provide 10 other raffle winners with $50 gift cards.
To view a complete schedule of WOW activities, visit: www.marshall.edu/wow.
For questions during business hours about WOW events, visit WOW Headquarters in the Memorial Student Center lobby.
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