Columbia College will welcome hundreds of new students to the 2025-26 academic year with a wide range of events during Welcome Week starting Wednesday, Aug. 20, on main campus.
The festivities will culminate on Sunday, Aug. 24, with “Storm the Gate” on Bass Commons, where new students will symbolically enter the college and a new chapter of their lives as they run through historic Rogers Gate before a crowd of faculty, staff and returning students and enjoy Andy’s Frozen Custard with their new friends.
The first day of classes for CC students nationwide is Monday, Aug. 25.
“We can’t wait to welcome students into the new school year at Columbia College with an unforgettable week of fun and connection,” says Dr. Dave Roberts, associate vice president for Student Experience and Dean of Students. “This is a thrilling time of year as fresh energy fills every corner of campus and we help ensure every student finds their place.”
Residential students will move into Banks Hall, Hughes Hall, New Hall and Cougar Village on Wednesday, Aug. 20, with a Family Farewell scheduled from 2:30-5 p.m. on The Quad.
Students will jump right into an action-packed first full day on Thursday, Aug. 21, highlighted by “Your Legacy Starts Here” from 2-4:45 p.m. in the Southwell Complex. During this gathering, students will be introduced to classmates, learn about campus resources and traditions, and take a class picture.
Friday, Aug. 22, will feature a Wellness Fair in the morning and then Cougars Kickoff, an evening of activities, games and kickball hosted by Residential Life.
Group visits to Acola Coffee Company and The Kitchen Grill & Games on Saturday, Aug. 23, will give students a sense of the vibrant community surrounding campus, which is located steps away from a downtown filled with shops, restaurants, galleries and cultural attractions.
Full schedule of 2025 Welcome Week
This wonderful issue of Connected displays who we are!!!! Welcome all new students and returning students of all venues!!! We are so very happy to get to know you and be a partner to positively improve your lives!!! WE ARE CC!
Sincerely,
Dale Simons, Chair and the WHOLE BOARD. OF TRUSTEES!!!