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RadWelcome

Radford Welcome Weeks are full of exciting activities, events, movies and more! We are really excited to help you connect and find your place in our community. Plan to attend the events and get to know Radford University and your fellow Highlanders!

Most events are free! Please bring your Radford University OneCard ID to all activities. Share your welcome weeks experiences on social media with #RadWelcome!

Keep your eye on this page as we are adding events regularly!

 

 

Radford Main Campus Events

The Game Room in "The Bonnie" Hurlburt Student Center is free for students!  View Game Room hours

DATE EVENT   TIME LOCATION
Wednesday, August 19, 2026 Highlander Haulers 2026

What is a Highlander Hauler?

A Highlander Hauler is a campus community member (student, faculty, staff) who assists fellow Highlanders and their families with making move-in a fun and positive experience! You will be assigned to a specific location where you will welcome students and their families, assist them with unloading their items, directing traffic and parking, and help manage the distribution of move-in carts.

Sign up here!

7:30 a.m. Main Campus
Thursday, August 20, 2026 Find Your Classes

Worried about getting lost on your first day of class? We've been there!  Our Student Success Peer Coaches are here to help you find your way. 

Visit us on the 4th floor of Young Hall  to connect with a Peer Coach who will walk your schedule with you.

Please bring your class schedule!

Hosted by Student Success and Retention

2 to 4 p.m. Young Hall 4th Floor
Friday, August 21, 2026 Find Your Classes

Worried about getting lost on your first day of class? We've been there!  Our Student Success Peer Coaches are here to help you find your way. 

Visit us on the 4th floor of Young Hall  to connect with a Peer Coach who will walk your schedule with you.

Please bring your class schedule!

Hosted by Student Success and Retention

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Young Hall 4th Floor
Friday, August 21, 2026 Connected Communities Welcome Wagon

The Connected Communities Welcome Wagon is a fun opportunity for students to stop by, meet new people, and learn about campus resources and involvement opportunities. Whether you're new to campus or returning for another semester, this event offers a relaxed space to connect with others, ask questions, and start the year off strong. Come as you are and enjoy conversation, community, and support throughout the day.

Hosted by Connected Communities and RUCMA (RU Campus Ministry Association)

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Heth 157
Saturday, August 22, 2026 CC Faith and Family Drop In

CC Faith & Family Drop-In is an informal gathering where students can take a break from their busy schedules and connect with others in a welcoming, faith-centered environment. Sponsored by Connected Communities and RUCMA Faith-Based Communities, the event provides an opportunity to build friendships, share experiences, and find support through meaningful conversations. Students can learn more about faith-based resources on campus, engage with community members, and enjoy a sense of belonging. Whether you are actively involved in a faith community or simply interested in meeting new people, this drop-in event is open to everyone and designed to foster connection, encouragement, and community.

Hosted by Connected Communities and RUCMA (RU Campus Ministry Association)

10 a.m. to Noon Trinkle 162
Saturday, August 22, 2026 Radford Community Fest

Radford Community Fest is a free, annual community celebration open to all! East Main Street will be full with over 100 local vendors,  food trucks, live music, a community stage, street performers, community engagement, and the downtown Radford merchants you love are hoping to see you as well!  Find out more  here!

Hosted by Radford University and the City of Radford

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. East Main Street, Downtown Radford
Monday, August 24, 2026 Bless the Backpacks

Bless the Backpacks is a special event where students can receive a blessing and words of encouragement for the academic year ahead. Stop by to connect with others, start the semester with support, and prepare for a successful year. 

Hosted by Connected Communities and RUCMA

7:30 a.m. Heth Plaza
Monday, August 24, 2026 First Day Pictures

It's the first day of school! You better take a picture!

Stop by our photo booth to document this special day and make memories that will last a lifetime! 

Hosted by Student Success and Retention

10 a.m. Heth Clocks
Monday, August 24, 2026 Pop @ The Clocks and @ The Patio

CC Pop at the Clocks and on the Patio is an event designed to bring students together in a casual and welcoming environment. Stop by the patio by the clock to meet fellow students, connect with the Connected Communities team, learn about upcoming opportunities, and enjoy a fun break in your day. Whether you're looking to make new friends, get involved on campus, or hang out, everyone is welcome!

Hosted by Connected Communities

11 a.m. Heth Clocks and Trinkle Patio
Monday, August 24, 2026 Cornhole: Play for a Prize!

Stop by and play cornhole for a prize while learning about Navigate 360, Radford's new student support app! 

Hosted by Student Success and Retention

1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Outside Young Hall
Wednesday, August 26, 2026 Oreo Tasting

Did you know Oreo has released over 200 different flavors?

We're trying to find the best flavor, and we need your help! 

Stop by our tent to taste test and vote for your favorite flavor.

Will it be Classic, Lemon, Peanut Butter, or something completely different? Put your taste buds to the test and find out! (milk not included)

Hosted by Student Success and Retention

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bonnie Plaza
Wednesday, August 26, 2026 Prepare for the Fair

Get Beach Ready at Prepare for Club Fair! 

Before you make waves at Fall Club Fair, stop by Prepare for Club Fair and get everything you need to create an eye-catching table!

This drop-in event is designed for clubs and organizations participating in Fall Club Fair. We'll have plenty of supplies available to help you bring your ideas to life, including:

Poster boards and markers
Printing resources
Buttons and other decorating materials
Craft supplies and more!
This year's Club Fair theme is Beach Party, so we encourage every organization to dive into the theme and create a fun, creative display that will stand out and attract new members.

Grab your officers, gather your ideas, and let us help you build a table that's shore to make a splash! 🌴☀️🌊

Hosted by Student Involvement

4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Second Floor of the Bonnie
Friday, August 28, 2026 Prepare for the Fair

Catch the Wave at Fall Club Fair! 

Ready to dive into campus life? Join us for Radford University's Fall Club Fair, where you can explore 200+ student clubs and organizations all in one place!

Whether you're looking to make new friends, discover a new hobby, build leadership skills, or find your community, there's something for everyone. Stroll through the fair, meet the faces behind our student organizations, and see everything Radford has to offer.

While you're there, enjoy a beach-themed afternoon filled with:

Music
Free food
Giveaways
And plenty of fun!
Grab your sunglasses, bring your friends, and ride the wave into an unforgettable semester. We can't wait to help you find your place at Radford!

2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Moffett Lawn
Monday, August 31, 2026 First Meeting of the Semester SNO

The Student Nurses Organization (SNO) is a welcoming community where nursing students come together to learn, connect, and grow. Our club hosts guest speakers from a variety of healthcare fields, providing valuable insights into the nursing profession and career opportunities. Members also have the chance to meet new people, build lasting friendships, participate in fun activities, and support one another throughout nursing school. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, network with professionals, or simply have fun with fellow nursing students, SNO is the place for you!

Hosted by the Student Nursing Association

6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Artis 310
Monday August 31, 2026 AKPsi Info Session

Alpha Kappa Psi Information Session is the first of our five rush week events scheduled for August 31 - September 4th. This event will be catered to show potential new members a glimpse into who we are, our core values, events we hold, and the benefits of joining the oldest and largest business fraternity in the world!

Hosted by Alpha Kappa Psi

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Kyle Hall 151

 

Roanoke Location Events

DATE EVENT   TIME LOCATION
Saturday, August 22, 2026 Roanoke Star Trek

Join your fellow Highlanders on a hike to the Mill Mountain Star!  This hike is suitable for beginners and includes both sidewalks and trails.  Enjoy free tropical ice when you get to the top!  Don’t want to hike but still want to enjoy the view and tropical ice?  Then hop on the van at 11:00 and enjoy the ride up the mountain. meet at Reed Lawn.

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reid Lawn
Sunday, August 23, 2026 Patrick Henry Hall Meeting

Join us for an important meeting to kick off the semester! We will cover everything you need to know about living in the hall. Attendance is mandatory. 

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

6 to 6:30 p.m. RUC 617
Sunday, August 23, 2026 Kickin’ It with Radford: Picnic After Hours

Join us for a cozy late-night social where you can relax, connect, and unwind with games, music, snacks, and picnic vibes—all indoors. Fun evening of good energy and welcome-back memories with fellow Highlanders!

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

6:30 to 8 p.m. Highlander House
Monday, August 24, 2026 Stellar Start

Grab your crew and start the semester off right with your maiden voyage into the RUC Galaxy! Enjoy space-themed treats and activities, mingle with friends, and get yourself ready to reach for the stars on your new adventure!

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. RUC 401
Friday, August 28, 2026 Drive In Movie

Grab popcorn and soda and sit back and enjoy the show at RUC’s own pop-up drive-in movie theater., featuring Project Hail Mary!

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Parking Lot across from Main Lobby
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Club Fair

Want to get more involved on campus? Visit Club Fair and find out about the clubs and organizations at RUC!  Featuring Pizza with the RU Police

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke

Noon to 1 p.m. RUC 401
Wednesday, September 2, 2026 Open House and Grand Welcoming

Set a course for a semester of smooth sailing and join the RUC Library, HSC, and Student Affairs for giveaways, snacks, make-your-own badge reels, and the launch of the new Mindful Lab, a reimagined tutoring and wellness space here at RUC.

Hosted by RUC Library

Noon to 1 p.m. RUC Library and Room 501
Friday, September 18, 2026 Tartan 5k: A Twilight Run

Radford University Student Affairs-Roanoke is proud to present the 3rd Annual Tartan 5K: A Twilight Run on Friday, September 18, 2026. This glow run will begin at 6:10 p.m. on the River's Edge Greenway at River's Edge North Park. Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer! 

Hosted by Student Affairs Roanoke