Welcome Week Schedule: Sept. 2-11
Welcome Week is an annual experience for St. Thomas University’s incoming class designed to help new students make friends, gain familiarity with campus and Fredericton, and have a positive transition to student life. This first week is comprised of many fun events organized to encourage school and residence/off-campus pride, giving you the opportunity to connect with peers and get to know the services available to you. We’re excited to announce that this year’s events will be taking place both in-person and virtually!
Both FIRST and SECOND year STUdents are encouraged to participate.
Our Welcome Week will be a dry week, which means there is an alcohol and cannabis ban that applies to all students, regardless of their age or year of study. The St. Thomas University community has a zero-tolerance hazing policy that allows students to enjoy a positive and safe environment during Welcome Week.
Come join us for a fun-filled Welcome Week. We cannot wait to welcome you to St. Thomas University!
Virtual Event Schedule
PDF version: coming soon!
Friday, September 3 (7pm-8:30pm)
Virtual Community Meeting
Link: https://zoom.us/j/97359630069?pwd=WGtaRFdTYWI4ZXZEczVaUVhVMmgrQT09
Meeting ID: 973 5963 0069
Password: Welcome
Saturday, September 4 (12pm-1:30pm)
Virtual Tour of Fredericton
Link: https://zoom.us/j/99005646894?pwd=NGFWdEVSL3IxUStBbzVEQVY3TGl0QT09
Meeting ID: 990 0564 6894
Password: Fredericto
Sunday, September 5 (6pm-7:30pm)
Virtual Game Night
Link: https://zoom.us/j/96478771229?pwd=dVZvUjJXTEZmcE9jU3JjUTN4eU5HQT09
Meeting ID: 964 7877 1229
Password: Games
Monday, September 6 (7pm-9pm)
Get the “Scoop” - Sexual Violence Prevention with CSASA
Link: https://zoom.us/j/91217743683?pwd=cW01bzdmNDd1c1FMeldDQ2VIZC91QT09
Meeting ID: 912 1774 3683
Password: sex
Tuesday, September 7 (7pm-9pm)
Frost the Rainbow - Positive Safe Spaces training with Cassidy Wilson
Link: https://zoom.us/j/92830918353?pwd=WVEyeVF4RG9RNGxBNU9OQWl6NVQ4UT09
Meeting ID: 928 3091 8353
Password: rainbow
Other online opportunities:
- Online Orientation
- Summer Soulsa (https://summersoulsa.ca/)
- Virtual campus tours
- Virtual STUCares: Day of Action
In-Person Event Schedule
PDF version: coming soon!
Thursday, September 2
Move-In Day
Time: 10am-4pm (by appointment)
Location: Holy Cross House & Harrington Hall
Students will have the opportunity to meet their Residence Advisors, Residence Coordinators, and Welcome Week volunteers as they move into their new homes for the year. Lawn games will also be happening in the courtyard for students to enjoy!
Parents & Supporters Reception Area
Time: 11am-2pm (drop-in)
Location: Great Hall
Parents/supporters will have the opportunity to chat with staff members as students move into residence.
Community Meeting #1
Time: 6pm-7pm (Harrington Hall + Holy Cross House)
Location: determined by your Residence Advisor/Coordinator
In small groups, students will have the opportunity to get to know their Residence Advisor while enjoying a fun night packed with games and activities with their peers.
Movie Night
Time: 9:30pm-12am (Move-In Day #1 group)
Location: meet in Sir James Dunn Hall (see transportation schedule below)
Students will see Jurassic Park (1993) on the big screen at Cineplex Fredericton. The cost of admission is covered by Welcome Week and students will have the opportunity to purchase their own popcorn, candy, and more at the concession stand. Bus transportation will be provided both ways.
Transportation schedule:
- Harrington Hall first-years: 8:30pm + 8:45pm
- Harrington Hall second-years: 9pm
- Holy Cross House: 9:15pm
Friday, September 3
Move-In Day
Time: 10am-4pm (by appointment)
Location: Vanier @ Rigby Hall (Forest Hill Residence)
Students will have the opportunity to meet their Residence Advisors, Residence Coordinators, and Welcome Week volunteers as they move into their new home for the year. Lawn games will also be happening in the courtyard for students to enjoy!
Parents & Supporters Reception Area
Time: 11am-2pm (drop-in)
Location: Rigby Hall (Forest Hill Residence) foyer
Parents/supporters will have the opportunity to chat with staff members as students move into residence.
Kick-Off
Time: 4pm-5pm
Location: lower courtyard
Students will receive a welcoming address from STU and STUSU representatives and learn more about the exciting week ahead. This event marks the official inauguration of Welcome Week!
Community Meeting
Time: 7pm-8pm (Harrington Hall + Holy Cross House + Vanier Hall + Off-Campus)
Location: determined by your Residence Advisor/Coordinator (Off-Campus will meet in Sir James Dunn Hall Student Lounge)
In small groups, students will have the opportunity to get to know their Residence Advisor/Coordinator or Off-Campus Leader while enjoying a fun night packed with games and activities with their peers.
Cheer-Off Prep
Time: 8pm-9pm
Location:
- Harrington Hall: outdoor basketball court
- Vanier Hall: upper courtyard
- Holy Cross House: Holy Cross House front lawn
- Off-Campus: Sir James Dunn Hall Student Lounge
In small groups, students will join Residence Advisors/Off-Campus Leaders and Welcome Week volunteers to prepare for Cheer-Off.
Cheer-Off
Time: 9pm-10:30pm
Location: lower courtyard
Cheer-Off, a Welcome Week classic, is an opportunity for students to show their newly adopted pride for their residence or off-campus community in hopes of claiming the title of the proudest, and most spirited group on campus.
Pizza Party
Time: 10:30pm-11pm
Location: lower courtyard
Listen to tunes while enjoying a slice of delicious pizza and a beverage from our proud sponsors, Papa John’s and Pepsi.
Saturday, September 4
Downtown Exploration
Time: 10:30am-4pm
Location: meet in lower courtyard
Students will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Fredericton which they now get to call home. From checking out local shops, restaurants, and art galleries to strolling along the Wolastoq (Saint John River) -- there’s lots to see and do!
- “Check out our local Farmer’s Market”: Volunteers will be walking students to the market at 10:30am, 11am, and 11:30am. Volunteers will be walking students back to campus at 11:30am and 12pm.
- “Shop at Regent Mall”: Volunteers will be taking students to the mall at 1:30pm and 2:30pm. Volunteers will be taking students back to campus at 2:30pm and 3:30pm.
- “Play boardgames at Unplugged”: Volunteers will be walking students to Unplugged at 1:30pm and 2:30pm. Volunteers will be walking students back to campus at 2:30pm and 3:30pm. Cost of admission to Unplugged is covered by STU Welcome Week.
- “Explore on your own”: Volunteers will walking students downtown at 1:30pm and 2:30pm. Volunteers will be walking students back to campus at 2:30pm and 3:30pm.
STU Vegas
Time: 7pm-10pm (prize auction starting at 9:30pm)
Location: Brian Mulroney Hall
Enjoy some mocktails and casino/board games with your peers. At the end of the night, you will have the opportunity to use your winnings to bet on awesome prizes. Students are encouraged to dress to impress!
Sunday, September 5
Fun in the Courtyards
Time: 12pm-4pm
Location: lower + upper courtyard
Join us for an afternoon packed with fun and entertainment. Get ready for laser tag, paint fight, a campus scavenger hunt, and more!
Hypnotist Show
Time: 8pm-9:30pm
Location: meet in Sir James Dunn Hall (transportation starting 7pm)
Students are invited to see the legendary Hypnotist Cyrus perform at the Fredericton Playhouse. The cost of admission is covered by Welcome Week. The Fredericton Playhouse is a cultural staple in the downtown community, which hosts hundreds of amazing musical and theatrical performances all year long! Remember to bring your ID and proof of full vaccination. Bus transportation will be provided both ways.
Monday, September 6
Student Life 101
Time: 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm
Location:MMH rooms 203 & MMH 308
Students will participate in sessions led by staff members and community organizations. Students will learn about the various resources available both on campus and in the Fredericton community. Topics to be covered include sexual health, physical health, mental health, and harm reduction.
Get the “Scoop” on Sexual Violence Prevention
Time: 7pm-9pm
Location: assigned Community rooms (Off-Campus will meet in Sir James Dunn Hall student lounge)
Get the “scoop” on sexual violence prevention with our Campus Sexual Assault Support Advocates (CSASA). Students will have the opportunity to ask questions, participate in discussions and enjoy a delicious ice cream!
Tuesday, September 7
GROUP A
Group A includes first year students with last names starting with A to L
Commencement Ceremony (Group A)
Kinsella Auditorium @ 9:30 AM
This ceremony officially welcomes you into the STU community. Each student receives a T-Pin — the “T” is the symbol all St. Thomas students identify with while they are attending STU and long after they graduate.
Academics 101 & Tips for Achieving Academic Success (Group A)
Kinsella Auditorium @ 10:30 AM
Learn how to answer your questions about academic programs, majors, dropping and adding courses, paying fees, academic issues, and advice on how to succeed at university.
BBQ Lunch (Group A)
GMH Cafeteria @ 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM
Join us for a BBQ lunch sponsored by the STU Alumni Association and the Students’ Union Office.
GROUP B
Group B includes first year students with last names starting with M to Z
BBQ Lunch (Group B)
GMH Cafeteria @ 12:15 – 1:15 PM
Join us for a BBQ lunch sponsored by the STU Alumni Association and the Students’ Union Office.
Commencement Ceremony (Group B)
Kinsella Auditorium @ 1:30 PM
This ceremony officially welcomes you into the STU community. Each student receives a T-Pin — the “T” is the symbol all St. Thomas students identify with while they are attending STU and long after they graduate.
Academics 101 & Tips for Achieving Academic Success (Group B)
Kinsella Auditorium @ 2:30 PM
Learn how to answer your questions about academic programs, majors, dropping and adding courses, paying fees, academic issues, and advice on how to succeed at university.
Mature Learner & Transfer Student Reception
Time: 4pm-5pm
Location: Brian Mulroney Hall – Rotunda
Mature learners and transfer students are invited to join us for a reception and chance to connect with faculty and staff.
Frost the Rainbow: Positive Safe Spaces with Cassidy Wilson
Time: 7pm-9pm
Location: assigned Community rooms (Off-Campus will meet in the Sir James Dunn Hall Student Lounge)
Cassidy Wilson, LGBTQIA2S+ Wellness Coordinator, will go over the resources available at on campus to support students while also discussing the importance of creating a safe space on campus for everyone. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions and enjoy a delicious rainbow cupcake!
Wednesday, September 8
Celebration of Culture
Time: 3pm-4:30pm
Location: lower courtyard
Our entire campus community is invited to the Wabanaki Centre in the lower courtyard to learn more about Indigenous culture. Students, faculty, and staff will have the opportunity to take part in traditional social dances.
feSTUval Day #1
Time: 5pm-8pm
Location: Sir James Dunn Hall + lower courtyard
Celebrate the first day of classes with a free yoga class, bingo, STU trivia, and lawn games!
Thursday, September 9
feSTUval Day #2
Time: Sir James Dunn Hall + lower courtyard
Location: 1pm-4pm
Learn more about campus resources and initiatives at our STU Services Fair or paint ‘n’ pot a succulent plant in support of our Shinerama campaign!
Welcome Freddy Beach BBQ
Time: 5pm-7pm
Location: meet in lower courtyard
The City of Fredericton Welcomes you to the community! Join your fellow classmates for a delicious BBQ and live music at Officers’ Square
Friday, September 10
Powwow
Time: 2:30pm-5pm
Location: lower courtyard
Our entire campus community is invited to attend the Powwow organized by the Wabanaki Centre.
feSTUval Day #3
Time: 5pm-7pm
Location: upper courtyard
Celebrate the end of a successful first week of classes with a free yoga class, music, and inflatables!
Saturday September 11
Shine Day
Time: 9am-4pm
Location: meet in Sir James Dunn Hall
Hit the streets of Fredericton to flip burgers, wash cars, and more to raise funds and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis Canada through St. Thomas University’s annual Shinerama campaign. Students of any year are welcome to participate. Lunch provided.
Time to Shine Talent Show
Time: 7pm-9pm
Location: lower courtyard
Share a talent for the chance to win an awesome prize! Faculty, staff, and students are welcome to perform or watch the show. Admission is by donation and there will also be the opportunity to purchase snacks and beverages. All proceeds will be going to our Shinerama campaign. To register to perform your talent, click here: https://forms.office.com/r/mpYHraX3vT.
Other Important Welcome Week Information
Vaccination Clinics during Welcome Week
During Welcome Week, students can access COVID-19 vaccination clinics at the Campus Pharmacy (29 Dineen Drive, UNB Bookstore) on Tues. Sept. 7, Thurs. Sept. 9, and Friday, Sept. 10 from 10 am to 5 pm. To book an appointment see here. To access a vaccine before you come to campus, see the Vitalité or Horizon Health Clinics or a local pharmacy. Students outside New Brunswick are encouraged to seek information on vaccination in their province of residence.
Campus Tours during Welcome Week
New to campus? Book a campus tour! Our Campus Tour Ambassadors are happy to show you your classrooms, available students services, the best study spots, and more! Tours of campus will be offered from 10am-5pm on September 4, 5, and 6.
Welcome Week Kits & T-Shirts
All first-year students just out of high school will receive a Welcome Week Kit containing STU swag and other university essentials.
Welcome Week Kits are now available at the Welcome Centre in James Dunn Hall, until the end of Welcome Week.
Make sure to bring your student ID! For students studying remotely and joining us on campus after Welcome Week, a kit will be reserved by the STUSU for pick-up at a later date.
Other events you should know about
Wellness Zone
September 3-6 (open 10am-10pm)
Location: Sir James Dunn Hall 3rd floor lounge (in between the Wabanaki Centre & STU Mental Health)
Our Wellness Zone is a great place to go if you are feeling overwhelmed during Welcome Week or if you are looking for a quiet place to unwind. Come borrow one of our yoga mats, puzzles, or activities!
Support our Tommies
September 11
- Women’s Soccer vs DAL AC Rams 2pm
- Men’s Soccer vs DAL AC Rams 4:15pm
September 12
- Women’s Soccer vs Holland Hurricanes 12pm
- Men’s Soccer vs Holland Hurricanes 2:15pm
All games are at the Grant-Harvey Turf Field (formerly known as Scotiabank Park South).
STUCares: Volunteer Fair
September 13 (12pm-2pm)
Come learn about volunteer opportunities and how to get involved with our community! Representatives of local organizations will set up booths answering any questions students may have regarding volunteering, while also promoting their causes. Students will also have the chance to sign up for future volunteering opportunities, and STU Cares Day of Action.
For more information, click HERE.
STUCares: Day of Action
September 18
STU Cares will be a combination of virtual and in-person events this year. Both are concurrent and are excellent ways to meet new friends; engage with a community organization in Fredericton; make a difference; and explore current/future volunteer and career opportunities.
See STU.ca/STUcares for more information.
Follow Welcome Week on Social Media
Show us your Welcome Week experience by tagging us & using the hashtag #stuwelcomeweek
Follow us on Instagram: @stuwelcomeweek
Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stuwelcomeweek2021