The University of Toledo is ready to welcome new and returning residents to campus for the 2016-17 academic year.

During the first few weeks of classes, the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership has planned a number of events to encourage students to meet new friends, have fun and learn about the University.

“Studies show that the first few weeks of college are critical for all students,” Dr. Phillip “Flapp” Cockrell, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students said. “That’s why we want to make sure all UT students have the chance to learn as much as possible about the institution and all the resources we have to help them succeed. We also want to make sure they make friends, connect with administrators, faculty and staff, and have some fun, too.”

Fall classes at UT begin Monday, Aug. 22.

The events to welcome students to the new school year include:

Thursday, Aug. 18

• Bonfire, 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., the Flatlands. The Resident Student Association and the National Resident Halls Honorary will provide paint for the spirit rock and s’mores. WXUT and the Blue Crew will bring the entertainment.

Friday, Aug. 19

• Bike Ride to the Park, 1 p.m., Rocket Wheels Bike Share Station by Rocket Hall. A guide will lead bicyclists on the University Parks Trail on a ride to Wildwood Metropark Preserve. At the park, a naturalist will offer a tour of the grounds. Need a bike? Go to utoledo.edu/rocket-wheels. Monthly Friday rides will continue, weather permitting, Sept. 2, Oct. 7, and Nov. 2 and 17.
• New Student Convocation, 4 to 5 p.m., Glass Bowl. Rain location will be Savage Arena. UT President Sharon L. Gaber and faculty and staff members will welcome new students.

Saturday, Aug. 20

• Slip-n-Slide, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., hill by Parks Tower. Meet classmates and have some fun and free food.
• Paint UT, 9 to 11 p.m., the Flatlands. Sponsored by Campus Activities and Programming, this paint party will feature black lights and electronic dance music.

Sunday, Aug. 21

• Jam Session, 2 to 4 p.m., Student Union steps. Learn about some of UT’s multicultural student organizations and support offices, and see a step show by members of the UT Greek community.

Monday, Aug. 22

• Sundae on a Monday with President Gaber, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., Centennial Mall. Share a cool treat with President Gaber. The first 500 people in line will receive a gift; hint: #selfiewithUTPrez.

Wednesday, Aug. 24

• Student Involvement Fair, noon to 2 p.m., Centennial Mall. There’s an organization for everyone; see for yourself! Get involved!

Thursday, Aug. 25

• De-Stress Fest, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., University Counseling Center, Rocket Hall Room 1810. Stop by for a chance to win prizes, have a slice of pizza, pet a dog from the Toledo Area Humane Society, color, and spend a few minutes in a massage chair.

Sunday, Aug. 28

• The Big Event and Paint Your Pride, 10 a.m., Student Recreation Center. Show your school spirit and join the Division of Student Affairs to paint the Rocket insignia across campus. Then give back to the community by volunteering to help in the community.

Thursday, Sept. 1

• President’s Barbecue, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Centennial Mall. Students and employees are invited to lunch. Activities will include inflatables, limbo competition and more.

Thursday, Sept. 8

• Pep Rally, noon to 1 p.m., Student Union Steps. Join the UT football team and psych up for the game against Maine.

Saturday, Sept. 10

• President’s Tailgate Tent, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., lot 25 near Rocket Hall. Students are invited to meet President Gaber. Stop by for food, games and prizes.
• Toledo vs. Maine, 7 p.m., Glass Bowl. Students are admitted free with their Rocket ID; faculty and staff can buy tickets half off with ID; $25 to $60.

For a full list of events, visit utoledo.edu/studentaffairs/welcomeweek.