Playing jumbo games at the First Night Block Party

The Classes of 2025 and 2024 were welcomed to campus this year with a full calendar of large-scale events during Welcome Weekend (Thursday, Aug. 19 - Sunday, Aug. 22).

The 2021 Welcome Weekend looked a lot more like Welcome Weekend in 2019 than in 2020. While there were adjustments to capacity, with some events being spread out over longer time periods or larger outdoor spaces, students gathered largely in person for many of the events and programs as part of the Welcome Weekend tradition.

Coordinated by the office of orientation and transition programs, along with partners in the Division of Student Life and across campus, Welcome Weekend introduced new students to key elements of Miami life, and the people, places, resources, and traditions that will help them pursue success inside and outside the classroom.

“Welcome Weekend was such a refreshing series of programs to facilitate this year,” said Liz Walsh, director of orientation and transition programs. “It was an opportunity for students to start or return to their college experience in an environment of energy and excitement. It was a reminder of the joy and learning that is possible -- especially after so much uncertainty in the world.

There were typical events such as academic welcomes, residence hall quad events, and service projects, in addition to a few new programs that aimed to fill in gaps from a remote orientation experience.

The new Love and Honor fair at Yager Stadium included traditional elements such as learning the fight song and the Code of Love and Honor, but also included a resource fair for students to learn about campus offices and services. Students could also get their individual picture taken to be included in their class picture.

“Welcome Weekend would not be possible without the incredible partnerships and investments of offices and programs across the university,” said Walsh. “The cross-campus commitment and dedication and the engagement of the classes of 2024 and 2025 really made for the magic of a new beginning.”

Welcome Weekend photos can be viewed on university photographer Scott Kissell’s website.