August 17-31, 2024
Week of Welcome (WOW) is designed to celebrate the start of a new term, welcome the USA community back to campus, and connect students to the people, places, and groups that drive relationships and belonging at South. Whether it's the moment our new students set foot in the Mitchell Center for Casino Gras or Convocation to programs hosted like Get-on-Board Day or JAGSTRAVAGANZA, we have designed a schedule full of academic and social events to highlight our exceptional campus community.
Our goal is to help you get connected and make sure your time at South is phenomenal. You will have the opportunity to meet students across a wide range of areas, learn about student organizations, and discover opportunities to connect with faculty in learning experiences ranging from the classroom to the Gulf of Mexico. We look forward to meeting you at one of these opening events. Welcome to South Alabama!
Things to do during Week of Welcome
After a long day of rolling into South Alabama, join Jaguar Productions at the Mitchell Center for an all-in casino night. If you have an ace up your sleeve, then Casino Gras is the place to be. Roulette, war, and blackjack are the dealer’s choice with over $5,000 in prizes up for grabs to take back to your newly decorated residence hall.
7 pm - 10 pm
USA Soccer vs. Mississippi Valley State
The South Alabama Jaguars will face the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils in an
exciting soccer matchup at The Cage. The Jaguars, known for their strong performances,
aim to secure a decisive victory on their home turf.
The Cage
1 pm - 4 pm
Returning students, faculty and staff come together at the Mitchell Center Arena to celebrate the start of a new academic year by welcoming the class of 2028 and new faculty
11 am - Noon
Biology Bash
Incoming freshmen, transfer students and rising sophomores will be able to meet fellow
biology majors and biology faculty, consider joining their peers in the Biology Student
Association, learn about dept. awards and scholarships, and find their classrooms
for the fall semester. There will be activities, snacks, and refreshments.
Life Science Lecture Hall and ELSB
1:30 pm - 3 pm
Dessert with the Deans - Nursing and Allied Health
Current and prospective students (including freshmen and sophomores) in the College
of Nursing and College of Allied Health Professions are invited to join the college
deans and administrators for dessert and engaging conversation. This is also a great
time to fellowship with your peers.
Lobby of Health Sciences Building
2 pm - 3:30 pm
Math/Stat Welcome Tailgate
Come join an informal "tailgate" in front of the Mathematical Sciences and
Physics Building hosted by mathematics and statistics faculty. Light refreshments
will be
provided. Come ask us anything about your MA/ST classes, learn about extracurricular
opportunities, grab a quick bite, and/or find your classroom.
Portico in front of MSPB
1 pm - 3 pm
Student Success Summit
Get ready for the ultimate student-engagement experience at the Student Success Summit!
This exciting event is all about helping you thrive, boosting your study skills, enhancing
your wellness, and building a community of support to achieve your goals. Clyde Higgs,
our keynote speaker, is an esteemed alumnus, former USA Board Member, and the CEO
of Atlanta Beltline. He will kick off the event with an inspiring message that you
won't want to miss! You will need to register for this event so please make sure to
check your email for the registration link!
Marx Library
12 pm - 5 pm
Mind Blown featuring Daniel Martin
From the largest theaters and fortune 500 companies to intimate celebrity events and
residencies, Daniel Martin's high-energy performances are a thrilling fusion of incredible
sleight of hand, playful sleight of mind, and motivating insight that leaves his audiences
awestruck and inspired. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, Daniel Martin provides
an immersive experience where every twist and turn will keep you on the edge of your
seat. Join us in the Student Center Ballroom as Daniel Martin brings this wonderful
performance to South.
Student Center Ballroom
7 pm - 9 pm
College of Engineering - Week of Welcome
The College of Engineering will be welcoming our students with snacks, music, and
more! Come by Shelby Hall as we welcome our #engineeringjags!
West entrance at Shelby Hall
8 am - 11 am
Create Your Carry On
Join Global USA as to create your own carry on bag during Week of Welcome! Whether
you are traveling abroad or just to the grocery store, your custom canvas tote will
be hard to miss. Come early so you don't miss out!
Meisler Hall
10:30 am - 12:30 pm
CEADR's Ice Cream Social
Join the Center for Educational Accessibility & Disability Resources (CEADR)
Educational Services Building (CEADR)
11:30 am - 1 pm
Student Center Amphitheater
5 pm - 8:30pm
Be Wise With Your Finances
Introduction to Financial Literacy for College Students
- Importance of financial literacy for navigating college life and beyond
- Identifying common financial challenges faced by college students
Student Center
10 am - 2 pm
WoW Reading and Open Mic
Join the USA English Department and Stokes Center for Creative Writing for a featured
student reading followed by an open-mic session for new and transfer students. Free
pizza and soft drinks will be provided, as well as the newest issue of our literary
journal Oracle! We invite all to come learn more about the amazing work being done
by our English and creative writing students.
Student Center Room 212 4 pm - 5 pm
Mary Shelley: My Monster
Live impersonation of Mary Shelley in association with the "Frankenstein: Penetrating
the Secrets of Nature" traveling exhibit on display in the Marx Library. Light refreshments
following the presentation.
Marx Library Auditorium
4 pm - 6:30 pm
Get On Board Day is an opportunity for USA's 250+ student organizations to reach out to new and returning students, letting them know about each organization's purpose and goals, and promote membership.
10 am - 2 pm
On-Campus & Part-Time Job Fair
Join us for the On-Campus & Part-Time Job Fair, hosted in partnership with Get On
Board Day! Chat with representatives from USA departments and local employers about
flexible job opportunities, and visit student organizations all in one place. Don’t
miss this chance to explore job options, connect with potential employers, and snag
some cool swag!
Student Center
10 am - 2 pm
Watertok Wednesday: Jaguar Edition
Get ready to kick off the new semester with a splash at the "Watertok Wednesday: Jaguar
Edition!" Join us on the first Wednesday of classes for a refreshing and creative
break as you make your way to class. At our Watertok station, you can unleash your
inner mixologist and create your own signature flavored water. We’ll provide everything
you need – from ice-cold water, delicious syrups, and vibrant flavor packets to ice
and cups. Mix and match to craft the perfect thirst-quenching drink that’s uniquely
you! Stay cool and hydrated during the hottest time of the year while celebrating
your Jaguar pride. Connect with fellow students, share your best flavor combos, and
enjoy a moment of fun and creativity. Don’t miss out on this refreshing start to the
semester – it’s going to be Jagtastic!
Academic Success Center Lobby
1 pm - 4 pm
Title IX: What’s the Scoop?
Meet your Title IX team as you swing by between classes, and learn about its significance
in ensuring equity in education. This relaxed setting offers the perfect opportunity
to absorb valuable information while treating yourself to something tasty.
Outside Title IX Office
12 pm - 2 pm
Sweet Treats with SSWO!
Grab an afternoon sweet treat in the Humanities courtyard while learning what the
Social Work profession is and how to get involved with the Student Social Work Organization.
We can’t wait to see you
Humanities Courtyard
12 pm - 2:30 pm
Game Night at School of Computing
Join the School of Computing for a game night! We will have board games, video games,
and more. Snacks are provided!
Shelby Hall
6 pm - 8 pm
Unpacking Your Time Abroad
Welcome home, Global Jag! Join us for a re-entry event to chat about your experience
abroad and receive your FREE "I studied abroad!" T-shirt. (This welcome event is for
returning study abroad students. Attendance is by invite only.)
SC 203
4 pm - 6 pm
UTeach South Open House
Stop by to learn more about UTeach South, an exciting new program for STEM majors!
Meet our faculty, chat with our current students, and enjoy some snacks as you discover
ways to elevate your impact and inspire change in STEM with UTeach South. Ask our
advisor about the program's flexible entry points and how you can explore STEM education
while earning free college credit by enrolling in EDU 125. We look forward to seeing
you!
SC 203
Earth and Life Sciences Building (ELSB) Suite 25
11 am - 3 pm
Fun and Games With the College of Education and Professional Studies
A welcome event where you can visit with CEPS administration and instructors while
networking with other students. Have some fun in the sun playing lawn games, posting
selfies and enjoying frosty treats. Test your program knowledge and snag some swag.
Open to all students.
On the lawn at the Health, Kinesiology, and Sport Building
2 pm - 4 pm
Mental Health Matters
Join Jags4Jed in the Student Center Mall to share why mental health matters to you!
Grab fresh popcorn and learn strategies for managing stress.
Student Center Mall
11 am - 1 pm
College of Education & Professional Studies Graduate Student Welcome Event
The College of Education & Professional Studies will host an event featuring a panel
of CEPS current graduate student and alumni from various fields discussing how to
survive and thrive as a grad student in the College. In addition students will conduct
brief micro-presentations on their professional projects, research and service work
undertaken during Week of Welcome Fall 2024 Schedule Overview their time in the College.
Light refreshments will be provided. This even can be attended either in-person or
over Zoom
University Commons Room 3212
5:30 pm - 6:45 pm
There’s not much better than attending an Athletics Pep Rally and watching a movie with all of your friends under the stars? Join us at this annual Week of Welcome tradition as we cheer on our Jaguars, take a group USA photo, and watch a blockbuster movie (Fall Guy) on the field of Hancock Whitney Stadium together. Bring your blankets or your stadium cushions and settle in for the show!
6:30 pm - 10 pm
Muffin but the best of IS
Come learn more about the International Studies program, an interdisciplinary major!
Humanities Courtyard
10 am - 11:30 am
Stokes School of Marine & Environmental Sciences Welcome Back Social
We invite all of our Marine Sciences and Environmental & Sustainability Sciences majors,
minors, and interested students, and graduate students to join us Friday August 23rd
from 11AM to 1:30 PM to visit and explore our newly renovated space in the Education
and Outreach (EOB) Building. We have a brand new fish tank!!!!! Come peek at some
fish that populate our local waters! We will supply lunch (pizza and drinks), music,
environmental-related crafts, and we have some SSoMES swag (stickers, buttons, bracelets,
etc) to give out. Meet our faculty and staff, tour our facility, and get to know your
peers! Tell your friends! We hope to 'sea' you there!
Education & Outreach Building - 1st Floor
11 am - 1:30 pm
USA Volleyball Red & Blue Scrimmage
The South Alabama Jaguars will host their annual Red & Blue Volleyball Scrimmage at
the Jag Gym. This event is a great opportunity for fans to get an early look at the
team in action as they prepare for the upcoming season. Players will be divided into
two teams, Red and Blue, showcasing their skills and teamwork in a friendly yet competitive
match. This intra-squad scrimmage not only boosts team spirit but also gives coaches
a chance to evaluate their roster. Fans can expect an evening of exciting volleyball
and a preview of what's to come for the Jaguars this season.
The Jag Gym
6 pm - 9 pm
Join the Black Student Union for their annual Jersey Jam Party on Friday, August 24th from 10 PM to 2 AM in the Student Center Ballroom! Come dressed in your favorite sports jersey and kick off the school year with a night of music and fun. Don't miss this chance to party with BSU and celebrate the start of a new semester!
10 pm - 2 am
River Tubing with Outdoor Adventures
Enjoy a relaxing morning tube ride down Big Escambia Creek at Magnolia Branch Wildlife
Reserve. JagTran transportation, equipment, admission and guides are included in the
price. Participants should bring water, lunch, snacks, hat/sunscreen, and a change
of clothes. $12/person; online registration in advance is required.
Big Escambia Creek at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve 9 am - 3:15 pm
Come explore what Campus Recreation and Wellness offers! Try out dodgeball, trivia, fitness classes, our rock wall, the pool, and more to earn your free t-shirt. We'll have prizes and giveaways, and bring your swimsuit and towel!
8 pm - 10 pm
Study Abroad Open House
Stop by the Study Abroad Office from 1pm-4pm! Meet the study abroad
staff and ambassadors while learning about your opportunities to study abroad!
Hosted by: Office of International Education and Study Abroad
Meisler Hall 2300
1 pm - 4 pm
Coffee, Crafts, and Connection
Stop by Marx Library, the Heart of USA, for Coffee, Crafts, and Connection. Enjoy
a free coffee (courtesy of Starbucks), grab some free snacks, and play a game or two
while you learn about what resources are available at the library and what student
groups meet in our spaces. You can also learn more about USA’s Gulf Scholars Program
and Center for Academic Excellence teams! Come to the Marx Library between 12-2 pm
near the 1st and 2nd floor entrances.
Marx Library
12 pm - 2 pm
It’s time to spice up your lunch break! Jaguar Productions invites all USA students, faculty, and staff to Lunch Laughs, featuring Chase O’Donnell. Bring your lunch and be prepared for an hour full of laughs at this free, live stand-up comedy show happening in the Student Center Food Court.
12 pm
Transfer T-Shirt Swap
New transfer students can stop by the Student Center during our event and trade out
one old shirt from their previous institution for a new USA t-shirt.
Student Center -Table set up near food court & bookstore
8:30 am - 12 pm
Run Club WOW
A welcome into the school year with a short social run and snacks, with an emphasis
on community and health around campus.
Bell Tower
5 pm - 6 pm
Burn the Vote Info Table
Come learn more about the C100 Burn the Vote initiative!
Student Center
2 pm - 4 pm
Lemonade Stand at the School of Computing
Quenching thirsts, spreading smiles - one sip of sunshine at a time! The faculty and
staff from the School of Computing will be serving lemonade at Shelby Hall. Stop by
and enjoy a glass of lemonade.
Shelby Hall
10 am - 1 pm
Title IX Game Night
Title IX Game Night offers students a lively forum to discuss sexual discrimination,
harassment, and violence in an engaging setting. Departing from traditional lectures,
this event creates an interactive platform for students to delve into their rights,
obligations, and options amidst an enjoyable atmosphere. Given the growing societal
awareness of these issues, Title IX Game Night responds proactively with ongoing education
and dialogue. Featuring games, challenges, and interactive activities, the event ensures
that learning about Title IX rights is accessible, engaging, and impactful for students.
This event fulfills that obligation innovatively, fostering deeper comprehension and
a culture of respect, consent, and accountability on campus. With giveaways, food,
and the support of community and campus partners, Title IX Game Night promotes a sense
of camaraderie and shared purpose. Through discussions, activities, and partnerships,
students are empowered to actively engage, ask questions, and navigate complex issues
in a supportive and inclusive environment. Together, they become advocates for change,
forging safer and more equitable communities for all.
Student Center Ballroom
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
USA Spectrum Meet & Greet
Come play board games, learn about USA Spectrum, and meet our officers! August 28th,
3:00pm-5:00pm in Student Center room 205.
Student Center room 205
3 pm - 5 pm
Let the paint fly! Students will dip, duck and dodge past dodgeballs covered in paint to survive and stay in this colorful game! Students are encouraged to wear white to the event. Come make a mess with us!
7 pm - 8:30 pm
Stay Safe, Get Tested! Free STI Testing!
All STIs are preventable and treatable, and most are curable. Know your status and
how to protect yourself! Receive free STI Testing from the Women’s Resource Center
and learn about safe sex practices. Also learn about all services offered by the Student
Health Center. Free t-shirts while supplies last.
Student Health Center
10 am - 12 pm
Modern Languages World Café
Enjoy coffee and treats and learn about languages!
Modern Languages World Café
10 am - 12 pm
English Soapbox Event: Radical Readings
Join the English department for refreshments and to hear faculty and students read
their favorite radical literary passages on Wednesday, August 28 from 11-12:30 in
the Humanities Building courtyard. Get energized for the start of a great school year
and fuel yourself with soda, cookies, and candy! Hosted by the English Department.
HUMB Courtyard
11 am - 12:30 pm
Integrative Studies Family-Friendly WOW Celebration!
Interdisciplinary Studies (IST) & Organizational Leadership (OL) students, family,
friends, faculty and staff, please join us to celebrate the new semester with welcome
back swag, games and food. See you at the College of Education & Professional Studies
UCOM.
College of Education and Professional Studies UCOM
4 pm - 6 pm
USA Robotics Club Expo
Are you interested in AI, programming, mechanics, or electronics? The USA Robotics
Club is for you! Come to Shelby Hall Wednesday August 28th to see what the wonderful
world of the USA Robotics Club has to offer!
Shelby Hall
1 pm - 4 pm
INTO LIGHT Project Opening Reception with Remarks by President Bonner
Light refreshments served Drug Addiction: Real People, Real Stories is the focus of the INTO LIGHT Project, a national
art activism project that seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding the disease of addiction and to
address the misconception that people with addiction are to blame for their illness. Through the art of portraiture and storytelling, the Into Light Project art activism exhibit: Drug Addiction: Real People, Real Stories, exists to offer healing and hope and create meaningful
dialogue about substance use disorder. On exhibit at the USA Student Center from August 29-December 5, 2024 & at the USA
Archaeology Museum from January 6 -May 2, 2025.
6 pm - 8 pm
Popsicle Palooza & Games Galore Bash
Get ready to beat the heat at our upcoming Popsicle Palooza and Games Galore bash!
Join us for an afternoon packed with frozen treats, exciting games, and plenty of
good vibes. We will also be serving lunch. We've lined up a variety of fun games to
keep the excitement flowing as you enjoy your frozen treats. You can challenge your
friends to a game of cornhole, test your aim with lawn darts, strategize your way
to victory in a giant-sized game of Connect 4, and more! It's the perfect opportunity
to mingle with fellow classmates and meet your professors. Mark your calendars and
bring your friends along for a sweet escape from the heat. We will see you there!
Humanities North Lobby
12 pm - 2 pm
Get Game Day Ready with AATS & Career Development!
Stop by the Academic Services Center to make a game day button and grab a Jagtastic
cupcake before the first home football game with AATS and Career Development!
Academic Services Center
1 pm - 3 pm
Study Abroad: Dive into Adventure
Dive into adventure and study abroad! Join the study abroad office at the
Rec Center pool for snacks and refreshments! Meet the advisors and Study Abroad Ambassadors
to learn more about program options and scholarship opportunities.
Rec Center Pool
3 pm - 5 pm
USA Soccer vs. Auburn
The South Alabama Jaguars will take on the Auburn Tigers in an exciting soccer matchup.
Scheduled to be held at The Cage, this game promises a thrilling display of skill
and determination from both teams. The Jaguars, backed by their passionate home fans,
aim to secure a crucial win.
The Cage
7 pm - 10 pm
It’s a party like no other! Get ready to finish off Week of Welcome with an outdoor festival, JAGSTRAVAGANZA. Join Jaguar Productions for an evening of music, food, art, carnival rides, and endless fun to welcome our students home. This year’s festival will feature live concerts by Alto Moon and Michael Williams. Whether you’re returning for another semester at South or are a brand new Jaguar, JAGSTRAVAGANZA is an event not to be missed!
4 pm - 8 pm
Volleyball vs. Texas A&M
The South Alabama Jaguars will face off against the Texas A&M Aggies in an eagerly
awaited volleyball match. Taking place at the Jag Gym, this game promises to be a
thrilling display of athleticism and strategy as both teams compete fiercely. The
Jaguars, energized by their home crowd, aim to dominate the court.
Jag Gym
5:30 pm - 8 pm
USA Football vs. North Texas
The South Alabama Jaguars will host the University of North Texas Mean Green in an
exciting football season opener. This highly anticipated game will take place at Hancock
Whitney Stadium, marking the beginning of a new season filled with promise and competition.
Fans can expect an intense showdown as both teams bring their best to the field, aiming
to kick off their season with a crucial victory. The Jaguars, with their home-field
advantage, look to set the tone for the season.
Hancock Whitney Stadium
4 pm - 7 pm