Weeks of Welcome
September 19 – October 4, 2024
Week of Welcome is the official beginning of your SOU story! We are excited to celebrate what will be an exciting next chapter in your educational journey.
Community-building and engagement activities will take place throughout the week to connect new Raiders to their campus and the city of Ashland. The WOW schedule of events allows students to become familiar with campus, get involved, make new friends, and have fun as fall classes kick off!
Thursday, September 19, 2024
- 1:00pm – 4:00pm: Parent and Family Gathering (SJEC – 308 Stevenson Union)
Parents and families, we invite you to visit us at the Social Justice and Equity Center (308 Stevenson Union) during move-in. Come relax, enjoy refreshments, write a letter to your student, and meet university faculty members and staff. This is an informal space and families are welcome to come and go as they please.
- 1:30pm – 2:30pm: Helping your Student Find the Fun (Parent and Family) (323 Stevenson Union)
This short talk will educate parents and support networks about the various opportunities that can help your student find the fun their first year in college.
- 2:45pm – 3:15pm: Supporting LGBTQIA+ Students in Thriving: A Guide to Essential Resources and Support (Parent and Family) (323 Stevenson Union)
This presentation provides an in-depth overview of the essential resources available to support and empower LGBTQIA+ students within the larger Ashland community and on SOU’s campus. Families and students will explore services, organizations, and initiatives designed to help LGBTQIA+ students find belonging, community, and support in embracing their identities. Join us to learn how these resources contribute to fostering inclusive environments and promoting the well-being of LGBTQIA+ students at SOU.
- 7:00pm: Ice Cream Karaoke Social! (Stevenson Union (SU) Diversions Nightclub)
You’ve moved in, unpacked, and looked around. It’s now time to have some fun. ICE CREAM KARAOKE! Join the Social Justice & Equity Team and friends for a “cool” outing. Come sing your favorite songs in Diversions Nightclub and enjoy an evening treat of your favorite ice cream bars and popsicles. It’s FREE ICE CREAM Y’ALL!
Friday, September 20, 2024
- 1:00pm – 4:00pm: Parent and Family Gathering (SJEC – 308 Stevenson Union)
Parents and families, we invite you to visit us at the Social Justice and Equity Center (308 Stevenson Union) during move-in. Come relax, enjoy refreshments, write a letter to your student, and meet university faculty members and staff. This is an informal space and families are welcome to come and go as they please.
- 1:30pm – 2:30pm: Supporting your Student (Parent and Family) (323 Stevenson Union)
Supporting your Students medical and mental health needs while they are away at College.
- 2:45pm – 3:15pm: Supporting LGBTQIA+ Students in Thriving: A Guide to Essential Resources and Support (Parent and Family) (323 Stevenson Union)
This presentation provides an in-depth overview of the essential resources available to support and empower LGBTQIA+ students within the larger Ashland community and on SOU’s campus. Families and students will explore services, organizations, and initiatives designed to help LGBTQIA+ students find belonging, community, and support in embracing their identities. Join us to learn how these resources contribute to fostering inclusive environments and promoting the well-being of LGBTQIA+ students at SOU
- 7:00pm: SOU Food Pantry presents: Grocery Bingo (123 Stevenson Union – Arena)
It’s Bingo Night and everyone’s invited! Win themed bags of groceries and learn about the SOU Food Pantry.
Saturday, September 21, 2024
- 9:00am – 1:00pm: Tailgate (Raider Village – between Shasta and McLoughlin Hall)
Come and join the Residence Hall Association for its first-ever tailgate event in Raider Village (between Shasta and McLoughlin Hall). Make signs for our football team and paint your face to show your school spirit! Stop by the hawk during the event to have a tailgate-themed brunch. After the event, head to Raider Stadium to cheer on our football team!
- 1:00pm: SOU Football vs. College of Idaho (Raider Stadium)
- 7:00pm: SOU Movie Night: Inside Out 2 (Music Recital Hall)
Movie Night! Join us for a 7:00pm showing of Inside Out 2.
Monday, September 23, 2024: Meet the Majors
- 11:00am: Class Picture! (Raider Stadium)
Meet at Raider Stadium for a group photo with your class of 2028 classmates.
- 12:45pm Open Doors / 1:00pm Show starts: Comical Race Theory (Student Recreation Center)
Comedians/actors Martin Morrow (NBC’s Last Comic Standing and Progressive commercials) and Mateen Stewart (Comedy Dynamics and HBO Max) collaborate to deliver an engaging and interactive presentation. Through their comedic lens, they address sensitive topics related to race, inviting the audience to reflect on societal norms and perceptions.
- 2:30pm – 3:30pm: Meet the Majors (Stevenson Union – Various Locations)
The School of Arts & Communication is excited to welcome our new, creative and innovative students to their Meet the Majors sessions! New students in the following majors will be able to connect with their creative community at SOU, including faculty, staff and students in their programs. Some room locations will be announced closer to the event.
Art – Marion Ady Building
– Communication – Britt Hall
– Creative Writing – Marion Ady Building
– Digital Cinema Production Arts – Digital Media Center
– Digital Cinema – Digital Media Center
– Emerging Media & Digital Arts – Meese Auditorium
– Media Innovation – Britt Hall
– Music – Music Recital Hall
– Theatre – Theatre Building. Main Stage
School of Science & Business – Come meet with faculty and staff to learn about our wonderful interdisciplinary programs that offer opportunities in field research, collaborative internships, and real-world applications that allow you to land an excellent job doing what you love! (Science Center 151) Breakout rooms for individual majors in:
– Biology
– Business
– Chemistry
– Computer Science
– Environmental Science, Policy & Sustainability
– Mathematics & Financial
– Mathematics
– Pre-Medicine
– Pre-Nursing & Other Pre-Professional Health Programs.
Meet your faculty from the School of Social Sciences! In breakout rooms by major, you can ask faculty members questions about your program and meet other students from your major (Taylor Hall, 29/30): Criminal Justice (CCJ)
– Economics
– Gender, Sexuality & Women’s Studies (GSWS)
– Healthcare
– Administration
– History
– Human Services
– International Studies
– Power & Politics
– Psychology
– Sociology & Anthropology (SOAN)
School of Education, Leadership, Health & Humanities Education Studies – Meet with School of Education faculty, staff and current Ed Studies Seniors to ask questions, hear educator stories, take a tour of the Education/Psychology Building (Including the Pre-school) and learn how aspiring teachers can make the most of the Education Studies program. (Education Psychology Building 195)
– English/Spanish Language & Culture – Please join your faculty advisors to ask questions, share stories and find out the versatility of your major in the job market! (Central Hall, Room TBA)
– Health & Exercise Science – Stop by to meet your faculty and staff team, ask questions, hear their stories and advice, and take a tour of the classrooms and labs in the Lithia Motors Pavilion. (LMP 032)
– Outdoor Adventure Leadership – Meet with OAL faculty and alumni to ask questions, hear stories from the field and find out about the adventures you will take as part of this amazing program. (LMP 032)
Undeclared Majors and Exploring Options – Career Connections will be on board to provide major exploration and provide self assessments, Undergrad Studies faculty will also be on hand to provide assistance and answer questions. (Hannon Library 352)
- 7:15pm: Identity Pie (203 Stevenson Union – Rogue River Room)
Identity Pie is an interactive community building exercise designed to create connection through the sharing of the identities each participant possesses and the experiences that makes each person unique. Participants will walk away knowing a bit more about themselves, the community around them, and possess an idea of how to be Better Together.
Tuesday, September 24, 2024: Floor and Hall Meetings
- 3:00pm – 4:00pm: Hall and Floor Meetings (Stevenson Union – RRR, Arena)
Housing – All Hall Meetings (McLoughlin Hall – SU Arena and Shasta Hall – SU Rogue River Room) Residents will meet the Residence Life staff within their building and learn about community safety & spaces, policies, roommate & suitemate agreements, community involvement, and upcoming events. All residents are strongly encouraged to attend the meeting for their community. Individual floor meetings will follow as needed.
- 4:00pm – 5:00pm: Hall and Floor Meetings ( Arena – 123 Stevenson Union)
Housing – All Hall Meetings (Madrone Hall – Arena – 123 Stevenson Union) Residents will meet the Residence Life staff within their building and learn about community safety & spaces, policies, roommate & suitemate agreements, community involvement, and upcoming events. All residents are strongly encouraged to attend the meeting for their community. Individual floor meetings will follow as needed.
- 7:00pm – 8:30pm: Sex Signals (203 Stevenson Union – Rogue River Room)
Sex Signals has become one of the most popular sexual assault prevention programs on college campuses through its unorthodox, humor-facilitated and inclusive approach to examining our culture, sex, and prevention strategies like bystander intervention. A two-person team of highly-trained educators takes the audience on an interactive, relevant, and often-hilarious exploration of the cultural messaging we receive about gender, sexuality, sexual health and intimate relationships. It examines what roles culture and privilege play in justifying unhealthy and dangerous beliefs about what is acceptable social and sexual behavior.
Wednesday, September 25, 2024: Meet Ashland
- 11:00pm – 2:00pm: Meet Ashland (Stevenson Union Courtyard)
Meet Ashland 2024! will be held on the first day of school, September 25th, 11a – 2p. Under the canopy covered Stevenson Union Courtyard, this is an excellent (and fun!) opportunity for new students, returning students, faculty, and staff who comprise the SOU community to be introduced to local businesses and organizations.
- 8:00pm – 9:00pm: Daniel Martin (203 Stevenson Union – Rogue River Room)
Daniel Martin has quickly become one of the most sought-after performers in the nation. His high-energy performances are a thrilling fusion of incredible sleight of hand & playful sleight of mind that have been breaking attendance records at theaters & universities worldwide. He has been awarded Best Variety Artist, Best Male Performer, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year. In addition, he was recognized in the College Market as the highest rated/best reviewed touring artist two years in a row! His award-winning magic has been seen on the BBC, NETFLIX, CBS, NBC, Discovery & hosting his breakout hit travel show Tricks & Travels. Daniel is hailed by his peers as one of the most creative performers working, with some of the biggest names in entertainment frequently choosing him to consult on their TV projects such as the hit shows Scam School, Magic for Humans and Big Trick Energy.
Thursday, September 26, 2024: Raider Fest
- 11:00am – 2:00pm: Club Involvement Fair (Stevenson Union – Foyer/Courtyard)
Come check out all of the awesome student organizations that you could join this year. SOU has over 40 student clubs and many of them will be present at this event to help you learn about how to get involved!
- 3:pm – 5:00pmHannon Library Open House (Hannon Library)
It’s that time of the year again when Hannon Library warmly welcomes both new and returning students! We’re thrilled to invite you to our annual Open House event happening on Thursday, September 26, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. Nestled at the heart of the campus, Hannon Library will be offering free food and drinks, prizes, swag, and lots of information during the event. Come check us out!
- 5:00pm – 8:00pm: Raider Fest (Raider Village)
Join RHA and University Housing for Raiderfest in Raider Village! There will be lawn games, inflatables, music, food and more! This carnival-style event is a great way to have fun and meet others.
- 5:00pm – 7:30pm: RaiderFest (Raider Village)
Join the Residence Hall Association for Raiderfest in Raider Village (Between Shasta and McLoughlin Hall). Play lawn games, enjoy some carnival-themed treats, run through the inflatable obstacle course, or joust with your friends!
Friday, September 27, 2024: Glowfest
- 11:00am – 1:00pm: Campus Job Fair (203 Stevenson Union – Rogue River Room)
Are you looking for a job for the upcoming school year? Come by the job fair to speak with a variety of campus offices who will be hiring! Make a great impression by bringing a resume, and looking your best. Questions about how to prepare? Check out Careers.SOU.edu for resources, or connect with advisors at careerconnections@sou.edu.
- 8:00pm – 12:00pm: EPIC Glowfest (Stevenson Union – RRR/ASSOU Lounge)
Glowfest (Rogue River Room – Stevenson Union) It’s time to party! Our Glowfest dance is the place to be Friday Night, Sept 27th! Join our EPIC Programming Board for a colorful night of fun! RSVP early for a free glow t-shirt! We will provide glow paint and give-aways! The dance starts at 8pm in the Rogue River Room of the Stevenson Union and runs until midnight.
Saturday, September 28, 2024
1:00pm: SOU Football vs. Montana Western (Raider Stadium)
6:00pm: SOU Volleyball vs. Evergreen (Lithia Motors Pavilion)
- 9:00pm: ASSOU Movie Night: Monsters University (Raider Village)
The Associated Students of Southern Oregon University (student government) is excited to announce that they will be hosting a movie night in Raider’s Village (dorms located between McLoughlin and Shasta) on Saturday, September 28th at 9 pm. The movie will be Monsters University and there will be free popcorn and candy provided to those who attend. Everyone is welcome and we look forward to seeing you there!
Tuesday, October 1
- 10:00am – 2:00pm: Veterans Resource Center Open House (301 Stevenson Union (Veterans Resource Center)
VRC Open house, VA Benefits orientation for service members, veterans, and their families.
- 11:30am – 1:30pm: Social Justice and Equity Center’s Welcome Back Lunch (308 Stevenson Union – SJEC)
Kick off the fall term with the Social Justice and Equity Center’s Welcome Back Lunch! Join us for a free meal, meet our dedicated student and professional staff, and discover the valuable services and resources we offer. The SJEC is a vibrant hub for celebrating all facets of who you are and provides a supportive, safe space for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn how the SJEC can support you throughout the year!
Wednesday, October 2, 2024: Rec Night
- 11:30am – 1:30pm: Social Justice and Equity Center’s Welcome Back Lunch (308 Stevenson Union – SJEC)
Kick off the fall term with the Social Justice and Equity Center’s Welcome Back Lunch! Join us for a free meal, meet our dedicated student and professional staff, and discover the valuable services and resources we offer. The SJEC is a vibrant hub for celebrating all facets of who you are and provides a supportive, safe space for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn how the SJEC can support you throughout the year!
- 12:00pm – 1:30pm: Woof Woof Wednesdays (314 Stevenson Union)
Join us for Woof Woof Wednesdays starting October 2nd. Come relax and pet a trained and certified therapy dog!! This program happens every other Wednesday during the term. Please do not eat at the program because the therapy dogs are working and food will distract them. Program dates: Oct 2, 16, 30 — Nov 13, 27 — Dec 11
- 11:30pm – 1:30pm: SJEC Identity Lunch (Stevenson Union – ASSOU Lounge)
- 4:00pm – 10:00pm: Rec Night (Student Recreation Center)
Join us for Campus Recreation’s annual kickoff event – Rec Night! Experience a little taste of everything Campus Recreation has to offer, including tours of the Student Recreation Center, drop-in Rec Sports, Open Climb, Drop-In Esports Tournaments and more. Plus we’ll have an Ice Cream Sundae bar, and we’ll be giving away a ton of awesome Campus Rec gear!
Thursday, October 3, 2024: DR/UCAM Open House
- 11:30am – 1:30pm: Stevenson Union (SU) Open House (308 Stevenson Union – SJEC)
Discover the central hub for student support at Stevenson Union! Join us for an open house to explore the essential offices dedicated to your success at SOU. Meet professional staff, student workers, and peers, learn about the resources available, and get your questions answered. We’ll be giving away eight $25 gift cards and free T-shirts! This is a great opportunity to join us for a fun-filled and engaging time, learn about resources in Stevenson Union, and discover the support available to you throughout your journey at SOU.
- 12:00 to 5:00pm: DR & UCAM Open House–Let’s paint the town! (Garden Level of Central Hall)
DR & UCAM Welcome you to visit us in our new space on the Garden Level of Central Hall. Join us for light refreshments, a tour of our new space, and an opportunity to learn about the support Disability Resources & UCAM offer! Show us some love with sidwalk chalk art outside our space (weather permitting), or just come by and say “HI!”
- 7:00pm: SU Movie Night: Smoke Signals (123 Stevenson Union – Arena)
Friday, October 4, 2024
- 1:30 pm – 4:30pm: PRIDE PARADE DECORATIONS PREP (308 Stevenson Union – SJEC)
Join the Social Justice & Equity Center team for the annual PRIDE Parade Sign & Float Decorating. This yearly event is a fun high energy gathering of SOU community members working together to create beautiful signs and other parade pieces for the SOU PRIDE marchers and our SOPRIDE Float. ps…SOU ALWAYS has the biggest crowd. Come be part of the tradition.
Thursday, October 10, 2024: Therapy Dog Thursdays
- 12:00pm – 1:30pm: Therapy Dog Thursdays (314 Stevenson Union)
Join us for Therapy Dog Thursdays starting October 10th. Come relax and pet a trained and certified therapy dog!! This progam happens every other Thursday during the term. Please do not eat at the program because the therapy dogs are working and food will distract them. Program dates: Oct 10, 24 — Nov 7, 21 — Dec 5, 12
The following goals and objectives will be met throughout the weeks’ events:
- Foster relationships between students and the broader SOU community.
- Promote belonging and inclusivity for new and returning students.
- Provide engaging events for students as they adjust to college life at Southern Oregon University.
- To connect new and returning SOU students with campus resources and student life.
Be sure to follow the tags @soustudentlife, @souepic on Instagram.
Log in to Hawk N.E.S.T.
Use your SOU email and password to sign into our student engagement platform called Hawk N.E.S.T. Hawk N.E.S.T. is your online landing to News, Engagement, Support, and Teamwork. On this platform, you can find, join, and interact with all of our active student-led clubs as well as view and register for upcoming events.
Raider Student Services Drop-In’s
The RSS Office in the Computing Sciences Building is open for walk-in traffic all week!
Email: StudentServices@sou.edu or
RSS Phone: 541.552.6600
General Announcement
Activate your membership at the Student Recreation Center – your membership includes access to our fitness equipment, gymnasium, the Climbing Center, the Esports Hub, drop-in fitness classes, and more! Visit recreation.sou.edu for hours and more information.
Week of Welcome event updates are coming! Please keep checking this webpage for more details as we approach September!
Please feel free to explore our Student Handbook to become more familiar with SOU’s campus departments and resources.
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Student Life at SOU
SOU Office of the Dean of Students
Stevenson Union, Room 321
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520
Phone: 541.552.6221
Email: dos@sou.edu