DANBURY, Connecticut — Western Connecticut State University will welcome an incoming class of more than 1,240 students — 7% more than last year — by ushering them through the institution’s gates on White Street to symbolize the start of their academic careers.
The Entering the Gates ceremony on Friday, Aug. 21, will feature the WestConn Spirit Band and cheering parents, alumni, faculty and staff as students process through the gates to Alumni Circle on the Midtown campus. President Dr. Jesse Bernal, CSCU Interim Chancellor Natalie Braswell and other academic leaders will briefly speak before the celebration continues with refreshments, music, games and fun that will take place on the Midtown campus Quad until mid-afternoon.
The tradition is part of “Welcome Weekend” when students living on campus move into residence halls and participate in many university-sponsored activities to settle them into college life. The first day of classes will be Aug. 25.
Note that traffic will be heavier than usual on White Street as incoming students will be moving into residence halls on the Midtown campus. WestConn police will direct traffic and staff members, with older students, will assist newer students with the move-in process.
Entering the Gates Schedule
- 12 p.m. – All alumni are invited to participate in a Legacy Photo outside the front steps of Old Main near the flag poles.
- 1:00 p.m.– Students gather in Litchfield Hall Plaza as the Spirit Band begins playing as faculty, staff, alumni, families, and friends gather at Alumni & Friends Circle.
- 1:15 p.m. – Students begin walking up White Street from Litchfield Hall to gather outside the gates. Families, friends, faculty, staff, alumni, and the dance and cheer teams will line the path from the University Gates through Alumni & Friends Circle and toward the Quad.
- 1:30 p.m. – The procession begins through the University Gates, through Alumni & Friends Circle, and into the Quad. Incoming students will be led by the legacy student and their parents, followed by the DAIS Party. This year, we will also invite other faculty and staff who wish to participate to wear academic regalia and join the procession alongside the students. This change is intentional and represents our commitment to walk with and alongside our students, supporting them throughout the journey they are beginning at WestConn.
- 1:45 p.m. – Welcome Ceremony begins from Higgins Patio.
- 2:15 p.m. – Activities begin on the Quad, including music, food, games, and opportunities to socialize and celebrate together.
For more information, contact Paul Steinmetz at (203) 739-9155 or steinmetzp@wcsu.edu.
### WestConn ###
Western Connecticut State University changes lives by providing all students with a high-quality education that fosters their growth as individuals, scholars, professionals, and leaders in a global society. Our vision: To be widely recognized as a premier public university with outstanding teachers and scholars who prepare students to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.