UMSL’s annual Weeks of Welcome includes a new student convocation, legacy student pinning ceremony, pool party and more. (Photo by Derik Holtmann)
Just ahead of the fall semester officially kicking off on Monday, Aug. 25, the University of Missouri–St. Louis is ready to welcome new and returning students back to campus in a big way. From Aug. 21-29, UMSL’s Weeks of Welcome will help students navigate campus and connect with fellow Tritons through activities such as a pool party, legacy pinning ceremony, games, excursions around the St. Louis area and more.
2025 Weeks of Welcome events include:
Orientation Kickoff
Thursday, Aug. 21, 6 to 8 p.m.
Oak Residence Hall
This annual Weeks of Welcome kickoff event is a great opportunity to meet other students and connect with peers. The event will also feature a giveaway and free snacks.
UMSL Student Legacy Pinning Ceremony
Thursday, Aug. 21, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Millennium Student Center
UMSL alumni parents, grandparents and family members of new students are invited to an UMSL tradition, the Legacy Pinning Ceremony, which honors past and present. Dress is UMSL classy, and guests are encouraged to wear red and gold to show their Triton pride. The event is free to attend, but parents and families are asked to RSVP in TritonConnect.
New Student Convocation
Friday, Aug. 22, 8:30 to 10 a.m.
Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center
This new UMSL tradition formally welcomes our new class of students and their family members to campus. Chancellor Sobolik and Provost Berberich will kick off the new academic year during this ceremonial event, in which new students will be presented with a lapel pin and recite the Triton Creed to commemorate their induction into the UMSL community. Following the ceremony, undergraduate students will continue with their orientation. Please arrive at 8:30 a.m., as the ceremony will begin promptly at 9 a.m.
First-Generation College Student Welcome and Breakfast
Saturday, Aug. 23, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Millennium Student Center, 3rd Floor Rotunda
Join the campus community to welcome all new first-generation students (students whose parents have not completed a four-year degree). You will meet and hear from other first-generation students, faculty and staff while being able to share your own story about your first-generation experience. Space is limited; RSVP here.
Splashing into Your Second Year: Welcome Back to Campus!
Saturday, Aug. 23, 5 to 6 p.m.
Millennium Student Center Patio
This signature event welcomes UMSL’s second-year students back to campus to partake in some water fun, win prizes and reconnect with peers.
Welcome Back Bash
Saturday, Aug. 23, 6 to 9 p.m.
Millennium Student Center (all floors)
Join the Office of Student Involvement for its annual campus tradition, the Welcome Back Bash. This is the perfect way to kick off the school year, featuring music, inflatables, a roller skating rink and lots more activities, plus free food and drinks. Arrive early if you want to receive an exclusive Welcome Bash T-shirt (while supplies last), and feel free to bring children or other members of your family to this kid-friendly event.
Explore St. Louis Excursions
Sunday, Aug. 24, 12:30 to 5 p.m.
Meet at South Campus Metro Stop
UMSL students are invited to explore St. Louis through excursions to popular attractions around the city, including the Gateway Arch, Saint Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, Union Station, City Museum and more. These excursions are only open to UMSL students, and sign-ups are required at tritonconnect.umsl.edu. The only cost to attend is a round-trip Metro daily pass.
Pop-Up Library
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2 to 5 p.m.
Millennium Student Center 316
The library is on the move! Join us in the MSC to make a fun craft, enjoy snacks and coffee, browse books, and chat with your friendly UMSL Librarians. Most importantly, learn how the library can help you succeed this semester! Attendees can browse and check out new books and bestsellers, make a bookmark or button (or both!), learn about library services and events, get renovation updates and pick up some library swag.
Rock the Rec: Birthday Bash!
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 4 to 8 p.m.
UMSL Recreation and Wellness Center
Help us celebrate 10 years of the healthy heart of UMSL’s growing campus, the Recreation and Wellness Center. This event features free food, plus giveaways and prizes.
Fall 2025 Involvement Jamboree
Thursday, Aug. 28, 2 to 5 p.m.
Millennium Student Center Century Rooms and Third Floor Rotunda
Explore the many ways to plug into campus life! Whether you want to lead, volunteer, create, or connect, there is a student group here waiting for you.
Oak Hall Pool Party
Friday, Aug. 29, 7 to 9 p.m.
Oak Hall
Wrap up your welcome week with a splash! Dive into the school year at this tropical-themed pool party hosted by the University Program Board. The first 100 attendees receive free food vouchers!
