Welcome Week Events Kick Off 2013-14 Academic Year

The University of St. Thomas will usher in the 2013-14 school year with a host of Welcome Week events that will start with the residence hall move-in Saturday, Aug. 31, and end with the Opening Mass and Reception on Sunday, Sept. 8.

Welcome Week events are open to all students, faculty and staff. The events will be held on the St. Paul campus unless otherwise noted. Mark your calendar and plan to attend these Welcome Week events:

Tuesday, Sept. 3

March Through the Arches 11 a.m., lower quadrangle

Welcome the newest St. Thomas students! New first-year, transfer and international students will gather on the Summit Avenue side of the Arches at 10:45 a.m. After a brief welcome from St. Thomas President Julie Sullivan, Marla Friederichs, associate vice president of enrollment services, and Jenna Johnson, president of the Undergraduate Student Government, students will walk through the Arches to the applause of faculty, staff, fellow students and some families.

(Students will assemble at 10:45 a.m. To all those who will applaud the new students, meet in the lower quad before 11 a.m.)

Interfaith Blessing for the New School Year 11:30 a.m., Schoenecker Arena, Anderson Athletic and Recreation Complex

People of all faiths are welcome to meet in the arena for a service to mark the beginning of the new academic year. Speakers will include Dr. Julie Sullivan, president of the university; Dr. Sue Huber, executive vice president and provost; Dr. Jane Canney, vice president for student affairs; and Father Erich Rutten, director of Campus Ministry.

Opening Picnic John P. Monahan Plaza, following the Interfaith Blessing

This annual picnic will be held on the John P. Monahan Plaza, Anderson Student Center. Rain site: Field house, Anderson Athletic and Recreation Complex.

President’s Opening Convocation 1:30 p.m., O’Shaughnessy Educational Center auditorium

Dr. Julie Sullivan, president, will welcome new faculty and staff and give her first convocation address.

Sunday, Sept. 8

Opening Mass and Reception 11 a.m., Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas

All are welcome to attend the Opening Mass and Reception. An outdoor reception will follow.