Orientation Schedule

8:30 – 9:00 AM | Check-In & Breakfast
Peeler Crystal Lounge, Robertson College-Community Center
Kick off your first official day as a Catawba student with coffee, breakfast, music, and your first chance to meet classmates, student leaders, faculty, and staff. Pick up your orientation materials, ask questions, and settle into campus life before the day begins.

9:05 AM – 9:45 AM | Welcome to Catawba
Keppel Auditorium, Robertson College-Community Center
You’re fficially part of the Catawba community. Hear from student leaders and campus administrators as they welcome the newest members of the Catawba family and set the tone for an unforgettable college experience.  Student Orientation Leaders, President David P. Nelson, SGA Executive President Makeda Micheal and Dean of Students Dr. Justin Tyler Owens will welcome the 2030 class at Catawba College.

9:45 AM – 10:15 AM | Discovering Your Success
Keppel Auditorium, Robertson College-Community Center  
Join our Success Coaches for an enlightening session designed to empower future students with essential skills and offer families invaluable insights to support their students’ success at Catawba College. Our Success Coaches understand that the student journey is filled with both excitement and challenges. That’s why we prioritize the crucial role of success coaches in unlocking your potential and helping you achieve your academic and personal goals. 

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Bathroom Break

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Getting Connected
Hedrick Little Theatre, Robertson College-Community Center
Representatives from Student Affairs will share opportunities for leadership, entertainment, wellness, competition, and community throughout the academic year. Students will learn how to join organizations, attend events, fitness programming, participate in intramurals, and discover spaces where they can truly belong. The session will also include a live Q&A featuring Current Student Leaders.

11:30 AM – 11:45 AM | Transition Time to Student Union

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM | Lunch & Resource Fair
Leonard Lounge, Cannon Student Center
Enjoy lunch in the dining hall, where a variety of delicious food options await you! While you're there, be sure to stop by the Resource Fair to connect with helpful campus departments and organizations.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM |First-Year Seminar: Your Key to College Success
Shuford Science Building 205
This intimate session is designed specifically for incoming first-year students to get a deeper understanding of the First-Year Seminar experience at Catawba College. Students will meet their First-Year Seminar instructors in a small-group setting, helping build early connections and support systems before classes begin. This session focuses on what to expect in FYS, how it supports your transition to college, and how it helps you build the skills needed for long-term academic success.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Transfer Toolkit: Your Fast Track to Success
Shuford Science Building 205, 209, 305, 310
Designed exclusively for transfer students, this small-group session helps you confidently transition into life at Catawba College. Students will connect with Success Coaches and staff to review academic planning, degree pathways, credit application, and campus resources tailored specifically to transfer needs. This is also a chance to ask questions, build relationships, and make sure your transition is as smooth and supported as possible from day one. 

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Guided for Greatness: Meet Your Success Coach
Shuford Science Building 205, 209, 305, 310
Join your assigned Student Success Coach for an interactive session designed to set you up for a successful first year! Learn about how your Success Coach provides personalized support, offers guidance on academic planning, time management, and connects you with campus resources. This session is also a great chance to meet fellow First-Year Seminar (FYS) classmates and start building connections that will enhance your college experience.

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM | Excelling as a Student-Athlete at Catawba (Athletes Only)
Hedrick Little Theatre, Robertson College-Community Center
Transitioning to a collegiate athlete can be both exhilarating and challenging, and it is essential to understand the expectations for what lies ahead. We invite all new student-athletes to attend an informative session to help you and your family. This session will cover important topics and required paperwork for your success and well-being as a student-athlete. 

2:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Clearance and Residential Check-in Event
Corriher-Linn-Black Library
Before wrapping up Orientation, students will stop by our Clearance Event to complete final steps and pick up Catawba merchandise and materials. This is a quick, organized wrap-up station where students can confirm completion of Orientation items, receive important next-step information, and leave with official Catawba gear to kick off their college experience in style. After the Clearance event, residential students will be able to move into their residence hall.

8:30 – 9:00 AM | Check-In & Breakfast
Peeler Crystal Lounge, Robertson College-Community Center
Kick off your first official day as a Catawba student with coffee, breakfast, music, and your first chance to meet classmates, student leaders, faculty, and staff. Pick up your orientation materials, ask questions, and settle into campus life before the day begins.

9:05 AM – 9:45 AM | Welcome to Catawba
Keppel Auditorium, Robertson College-Community Center
You’re officially part of the Catawba community. Hear from student leaders and campus administrators as they welcome the newest members of the Catawba family and set the tone for an unforgettable college experience.  Student Orientation Leaders, President David P. Nelson, SGA Executive President Makeda Micheals and Dean of Students Dr. Justin Tyler Owens will welcome the 2030 class at Catawba College.

9:45 AM – 10:15 AM | Discovering Your Success
Keppel Auditorium, Robertson College-Community Center  
Join our Success Coaches for an enlightening session designed to empower future students with essential skills and offer families invaluable insights to support their students’ success at Catawba College. Our Success Coaches understand that the student journey is filled with both excitement and challenges. That’s why we prioritize the crucial role of success coaches in unlocking your potential and helping you achieve your academic and personal goals. 

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Bathroom Break

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Parent Panel: Discussion with Campus Leaders
Peeler Crystal Lounge, Robertson College-Community Center
Join us for a dynamic parent panel where staff members share insights on what it’s really like for students living on campus, finding internship opportunities, and navigating college academics. You’ll hear firsthand tips on helping your student make the most of their residential experience, stay on track in the classroom, and prepare for career success — all while adjusting to life away from home. Whether you're wondering how to support healthy habits, encourage involvement, or guide your student toward professional opportunities, this session is designed to answer your questions and ease the transition for family and friends of new students.

11:30 AM – 11:45 AM | Transition Time to Student Union 

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM | Lunch & Resource Fair
Leonard Lounge, Cannon Student Center
Enjoy lunch in the dining hall, where a variety of delicious food options await you! While you're there, be sure to stop by the Resource Fair to connect with helpful campus departments and organizations.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Navigating the Transition: Letting Go but Staying Connected
Hedrick Little Theatre, Robertson College-Community Center
As your student embarks on their college journey, you may be feeling a mix of emotions—pride, excitement, and perhaps a little uncertainty. This session is designed to support friends and family members as you navigate the transition of letting go while staying connected with your student. Learn how to strike the right balance between offering support and giving them the space they need to grow and thrive independently. 

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Introduction to the 3 Centers
Hedrick Little Theatre, Robertson College-Community Center
Here at Catawba, The Center for the Environment, The Lilly Center for Vocation & Values, and The Center for NC Politics and Public Service, give students the opportunity to dig deeper in areas of particular interest and explore passions beyond the classroom. This Session is designed to introduce our Family and Friends to our 3 Signature Centers our Campus-wide Pillar Days.

2:30 PM – 3:15 PM | Excelling as a Student-Athlete at Catawba (Athletes Only)
Hedrick Little Theatre, Robertson College-Community Center
Transitioning to a collegiate athlete can be both exhilarating and challenging, and it is essential to understand the expectations for what lies ahead. We invite all new student-athletes to attend an informative session to help you and your family. This session will cover important topics and required paperwork for your success and well-being as a student-athlete. 

2:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Clearance and Residential Check-in Event
Corriher-Linn-Black Library
Before wrapping up Orientation, students will stop by our Clearance Event to complete final steps and pick up Catawba merchandise and materials. This is a quick, organized wrap-up station where students can confirm completion of Orientation items, receive important next-step information, and leave with official Catawba gear to kick off their college experience in style. After the Clearance event, residential students will be able to move into their residence hall.

Friday, August 14

New Student Orientation

Time: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Various Campus Locations

Begin your Catawba experience by meeting your Orientation Leaders, connecting with fellow new students, learning campus traditions, and preparing for Move-In Weekend. For a complete list of orientation locations, visit catawba.edu/orientation.

Clearance Event

Time: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Corriher-Linn-Black Library

Complete any remaining admissions, financial aid, student accounts, or business office requirements before the semester begins.

Dinner

Time: 5:00 PM

Saturday, August 15

Move-In Day

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Residence Halls

Welcome home! Residence halls open for first-year students as they officially move onto campus with assistance from Orientation Leaders, faculty, staff, and volunteers.

Move-In Crew assistance concludes at 2:30 PM.

Clearance Event

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Corriher-Linn-Black Library

Students who still need to complete administrative requirements may visit campus offices before Welcome Week begins.

Welcome Assembly

Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium

Officially kick off Welcome Week with campus traditions, student performances, and a welcome from college leadership.

Cookout at the President's House

Time: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: President's House

Meet President Nelson while enjoying food, lawn games, and conversation with members of the Catawba community.

Residence Hall Floor Meetings

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Residence Halls

Meet your Resident Assistant, connect with your floor community, and learn everything you need to know about living on campus.

Catawba Immerse

Time: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Various Campus Locations

Explore campus and Salisbury before classes begin.

During Catawba Immerse, students can:

• Walk their class schedule.
• Locate classrooms.
• Request complimentary transportation through CatawbaGO to Food Lion, Walmart, and other nearby stores.
• Explore Downtown Salisbury's Back-to-School festivities.
• Visit campus favorites such as the Lerner Wellness Center, library, lounges, and study spaces.
• Spend time with Orientation Leaders while becoming more familiar with campus.

Movie Night on the Lawn

Time: 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Abernethy Lawn

Relax under the stars with free popcorn, snacks, and a featured movie.

Sunday, August 16

The Hook Up: A Title IX Conversation

Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Hedrick Little Theatre

An engaging program exploring healthy relationships, consent, bystander intervention, and campus expectations.

Sundaes on Sunday

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Stanback Plaza

Build your own ice cream sundae while meeting fellow students and learning about the Student Government Association (SGA) and Campus Activities Board (CAB). Discover leadership opportunities and begin making connections that will last throughout your time at Catawba.

Campus Resources Round Robin

Time: 3:00 PM
Locations:

• Tom Smith Auditorium
• Leonard Lounge
• Hurley Room

Visit key campus offices—including Student Success, Public Safety, and Student Conduct—to learn about the resources available to support your academic and personal success.

Speed Friending featuring Reality TV Personality Amoura Robinson

Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium & Peeler Crystal Lounge

Hosted by Residence Life and Campus Life, this high-energy event helps students build meaningful friendships through engaging conversations and interactive activities.

Monday, August 17

First-Year Seminar Group Meetings

Time: 9:00 AM – 10:45 AM
Location: Various

Meet your First-Year Seminar classmates while building relationships with faculty and peer mentors.

Spanish Placement 

Time: 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Various

For selected students seeking placement beyond introductory language courses.

First-Year Seminar Group Meetings

Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Various

Meet with your First-Year Seminar instructor in your assigned classroom. 

New Transfer Students & Advisors Meeting 

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location:  Various Locations

Transfer students may meet with major advisors as needed.

Mandatory International Students Meeting 

Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location:  Tom Smith Auditorium

Mandatory meeting for International students.

NCAA Compliance Meeting

Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium

Compliance meeting for student-athletes.

New Student Commissioning Ceremony

Time: 7:00-8:00 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium

Celebrate the official beginning of your academic journey at Catawba College.

Wings & Sings Karaoke

Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Leonard Lounge

Enjoy over 1,000 wings, karaoke, music, and plenty of laughs with fellow students.

Tuesday, August 18

Meet Your Major Information Sessions

Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: Various Locations

Meet faculty members from every academic department and learn more about your intended major.

First-Year Seminar (FYS) Advising Meetings (Required for First-Year Students)

Time: 10:30 AM-12 PM
Location: Various (Assigned First-Year Seminar Classrooms)

Meet with your First-Year Seminar instructor and academic advisor to finalize your class schedule, complete required surveys, and prepare for a successful first semester at Catawba.

Know Before You Go! Campus Classroom Hunt (Optional for First-Year Students)

Departure Times: 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, or 12:00 PM
Meeting Location: Welcome Center, Hedrick Hall

Walk your class schedule with Admissions staff and become familiar with campus before your first day of classes. Bring a copy of your fall schedule and choose the departure time that works best for you.

First-Year Seminar Group Meeting (Required for First-Year Students)

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Location: Various (Assigned First-Year Seminar Classrooms)

Meet with your FYS class to receive your finalized schedule, discuss semester expectations, and prepare for the Common Summer Reading discussion.

Opening Convocation

Time: 4:00-5:15 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium

Celebrate the official opening of the 2026–2027 academic year as faculty, staff, and students come together to welcome the newest members of the Catawba community.

Club & Organization Fair

Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Abernethy Lawn

Discover your place at Catawba! Meet student organizations, campus departments, leadership opportunities, and community partners to learn how you can get involved from your very first week on campus.

Health & Wellness Bingo

Time: 8:30 PM
Location: Leonard Lounge

Enjoy an evening of bingo, prizes, and fun while learning about the health and wellness resources available to support your success. Hosted by Counseling Services and Campus Recreation.

Wednesday, August 19

First Day of Classes

Welcome to your first day of the Fall 2026 semester! Attend your classes, meet your professors, and begin your academic journey at Catawba College.

Lerner Wellness Center Grand Reopening

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Lerner Wellness Center

Celebrate the grand reopening of the newly renovated Lerner Wellness Center featuring more than $100,000 in new fitness equipment. Enjoy tours, demonstrations, giveaways, refreshments, and door prizes throughout the event.

David Anthony Magic & Hypnosis Show

Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium

Prepare to be amazed during an interactive evening of comedy, magic, and hypnosis. Audience participation makes every show unique, creating an unforgettable Welcome Week experience.

Thursday, August 20

Glow Golf on the Lawn

Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Abernethy Lawn

Experience Abernethy Lawn like never before as Campus Recreation transforms it into a glowing mini-golf course. Enjoy music, games, friendly competition, and prizes under the lights.

Friday, August 21

Center for the Environment Lock-In

Time: Evening – 2:00 AM
Location: Center for the Environment

Spend the night exploring the outdoors with games, activities, food, and late-night adventures. This overnight experience is a great opportunity to connect with fellow students while enjoying one of Catawba's unique campus traditions.

Black Light Night

Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Abernethy Lawn

Wear your brightest white or neon clothing and join Campus Life for an electrifying evening featuring glow games, music, dancing, giveaways, and unforgettable Welcome Week fun.

Saturday, August 22

Dragon Boat Festival

Location: Rowan Shrine Club Festival Grounds

Represent Team Catawba or cheer on your classmates during one of Salisbury's signature community events. Experience teamwork, school spirit, and community pride.

Food Truck Festival

Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Abernethy Lawn

Grab lunch from some of the region's favorite food trucks while spending time with friends and enjoying the Welcome Week atmosphere.

Jeff Little Trio Concert

Reception: 6:00 PM
Concert: 7:30 PM
Location: Keppel Auditorium, Robertson College-Community Center

Enjoy an evening of Appalachian-inspired music featuring the acclaimed Jeff Little Trio. This annual Catawba tradition includes a pre-concert reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, followed by a special performance featuring guest appearances by students from Catawba's Popular Music Program.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged.

Game Night featuring the Video Game Truck & Food Trucks

Time: Following the Jeff Little Trio Concert (or include official start time once confirmed)
Location: Leonard Lounge

Challenge your friends in video game tournaments, enjoy late-night food truck favorites, and relax before the second week of classes.

Sunday, August 23

Cornhole on the Plaza

Time:7:00pm
Location: Stanback Plaza

Wrap up Welcome Week with a relaxing afternoon of cornhole, lawn games, music, and friendly competition. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, reconnect with friends, and prepare for the week ahead.