Fall Quarter launches with signature events

As students arrive on campus this week and next, classrooms and programs are gearing up for the first day of class Sept. 23.

From campus traditions and academic gatherings to athletics, arts, and community celebrations, the weeks ahead will bring new energy to campus.

Highlights in the weeks ahead

State of the University - Thursday, Sept. 17, PAC at 8:30 a.m.
President Sabah Randhawa will deliver the annual State of the University Address at 8:30 a.m. in the Performing Arts Center Concert Hall. The event is open to all faculty and staff and will provide updates on accomplishments, opportunities, challenges, and the strategic vision for the year ahead. 

Convocation - Tuesday, Sept. 22, Carver Gym, doors open 10 a.m.
All faculty and staff are encouraged to welcome and cheer on new students in this year's Fall Convocation ceremony, marking the start of their academic journey, featuring campus leaders, faculty and student speakers, music, and a spirited send-off. 

Info Fair - Tuesday, Sept. 22, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Red Square, Flag Plaza and the PAC Plaza
Part of Western Welcome Week, the Info Fair brings together campus departments, programs, and student organizations along with local businesses to connect with students and highlight resources, services, and opportunities. 

First Night Out - Wednesday, Sept. 23, 4:30 p.m. at Red Square
In an annual tradition connecting WWU with our downtown neighbors, thousands of students walk from Red Square to Depot Market Square downtown for music, entertainment, food, and discounts at local businesses. 

WWU Athletics

All students get free admission to regular-season home games with their Western ID.  

• Women's Soccer Sept. 17, 19 and 24
  The Vikings take on Northwest Nazarene Thursday, Central Washington University Saturday, and Montana State Billings Sept. 24. All games are 7 p.m. at Harrington Field.
• Men's Soccer Oct. 1 and 3
  The men host Northwest Nazarene Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. and Seattle Pacific University Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. at Harrington.
• Volleyball Oct. 1 and 3
  The volleyball team plays Western Oregon University Oct. 1 and Saint Martin's University Oct. 3. Both games are 7 p.m. in Carver.
• Viking Jam Nov. 3
   A fun-filled night for students and community members celebrating the start of another WWU Basketball season, 7 p.m. in Carver.

For more information about these games and other events, visit: wwuvikings.com

Arts & Performances

• "Masks Play III: Return of the Masks"
  Opens Friday, Oct. 16 in the Old Main Theatre. 
• Sanford-Hill Piano Series: Aristo Sham, Oct. 21
  Internationally renowned pianist and 2025 Cliburn Gold Medalist Aristo Sham performs in the PAC Concert Hall at 7:30 p.m. 
• "Macbeth"
  The Scottish Play opens Nov. 20 on the Performing Arts Center Mainstage.  
• "Are My Hands Clean?"
  Western Gallery exhibition featuring the work of Rajkamal Kahlon, opening Reception Oct. 8 at 5 p.m.

For more information about these and other events, visit CFPA's events page.

Save the Date: Fall Family Weekend, Oct. 16-18

Families will be welcomed back to campus for a full weekend of events and community, organized by The Foundation for WWU and Alumni. More details will be shared in the coming weeks. 

These reflect just a portion of the many opportunities to engage as the quarter gets underway. Additional events will be announced throughout the fall. Stay tuned to WWU News, check the WWU Events Calendar, and follow WWU's channels for coverage, photos, and stories: 

• WWU Athletics
• CFPA Events
• Instagram: @westernwashingtonuniversity
• Facebook: Western Washington University
• LinkedIn: Western Washington University