Weeks of Welcome brings energetic start to VCU’s new academic year

By Loan Nguyen

Embracing the rhythm of a new year, Virginia Commonwealth University students return to campus this month for "Weeks of Welcome 2026: Your Stage Awaits." The annual program, which features a festival-inspired theme this year, offers dozens of opportunities to build community, explore interests and learn about VCU resources.

"'Weeks of Welcome 2026: Your Stage Awaits' is designed to foster a sense of belonging while connecting students to the people, tools, resources and experiences that support their success at VCU and within the Richmond community," said Sensiere-Yanti Thompkins-Harris, coordinator for student programming and Activities Programming Board advisor in VCU's Office of Student Involvement. "We invite all Rams near and far to come out to discover their place, build community and begin their journey with confidence."

Below are a few of the many events taking place around campus during Weeks of Welcome. All events are free to attend, with more information available on Rams Connect.

Aug. 17 - New Student Convocation

3-4 p.m., Siegel Center (1200 W. Broad St. and via live-stream)

This year's event is a "blackout," so VCU gear or an all-black outfit will be an ideal fit. Featuring VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., and other leaders, convocation celebrates VCU's incoming class. Then the Ram Spirit Walk parade will head to the Commons Plaza, where celebrations continue at the Monroe Park Campus Block Party: FloydFest with music, activities and free food for the first 1,500 students.

Aug. 18 - Rodney DJ Set Meet & Greet

11a.m.-noon (Near the Compass, outside of Hibbs Hall)

VCU mascot Rodney the Ram will perform his first live DJ set. Take a photo with him to commemorate the first day of classes.

Aug. 18 - Ice Cream Social

1-3 p.m., outside Shafer Court Dining Center (810 Cathedral Place)

Beat the heat with free ice cream (while supplies last).

Aug. 19 - The Sound of RAM Nation: Black & Gold Wednesdays Kick Off

Noon-1 p.m., the Compass (199 N. Linden St.)

On Wednesdays, black and gold attire is the norm to celebrate school spirit. Start the school year with free Black & Gold Wednesdays gear with Aaron Hart, Ed.D., vice president for student affairs.

Aug. 20 - RecWell Ram Jam

6-8 p.m., Cary Street Gym (101 S. Linden St.)

Free smoothies and food from Tropical Smoothie Café and custom RecWell VIP swag (while supplies last) can accompany signups for programs like intramurals, Outdoor Adventure trips and classes, plus a chance to take on the climbing wall and learn about free resources.

Aug. 21 - Student Organization and Volunteer Fair

3-6 p.m., Monroe Park (620 W. Main St.)

More than 500 student organizations help like-minded students find one another, and the largest student organization event of the year lets them discover ways to get involved on campus.

Aug. 25 - WoW Day of Service

3-5 p.m., University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave., Richmond Salons)

Serve others by helping package meals for Rise Against Hunger.

Aug. 26 - Commons Open House

11 a.m.-2 p.m., University Student Commons (907 Floyd Ave.)

Discover the services and programs located in the Commons while enjoying food, music, activities, merch and more.

Sept. 2 - MCV Campus Block Party: Live from Larrick

3-5 p.m., outside Larrick Student Center (900 Turpin St.)

The gathering features local food truck vendors, music and games; Black & Gold Wednesdays also launches on the MCV Campus with free VCU gear.

Sept. 4 - MCV Festival Fuel Up

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Larrick Student Center (900 Turpin St., Court End Ballroom)

The first 200 graduate and professional students to stop by the fuel-up station will receive a $10 Starbucks voucher.