Fall into the semester with Welcome Week 2026

Governors State University Welcome Week August 31 to September 4 2026 banner with Jax the Jaguar and the University in comic book art style

By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer

As fall classes start again at Governors State University (GovState), Jaguars can look forward to a first week back with Welcome Week events that offer opportunities to get to know the campus and fellow students from club activities to the Women's Volleyball match against Judson.

Welcome Week is GovState's annual beginning of the semester tradition for new and returning students, which begins with the first day of classes on Monday, August 31. Jaguars can look forward to a week of events to connect with campus life and fellow students:

• A Welcome Week classic, Speed Friending kicks off the week on Monday, August 31 at noon in the Hall of Governors. This is a chance to meet new people and make connections through fast-paced conversations with bonding cards to break the ice.
• On Tuesday, September 1 at noon on the Hall of Governors Patio, students can meet members of Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD) and get to know the occupational therapy profession. Treats and networking in one!
• Drop in at room D1496 between 12 - 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2 for Pizza & Pages, a casual meet-and-greet event for book lovers! Learn more about the Reading Jaguars book club, what they do, and how to get involved while enjoying free pizza, playing fun games, and meeting other readers.
• Get ready for the Welcome Week Block Party and Resource Fair on Thursday, September 3! Starting at 1 p.m. outside the D Building Main Entrance, Jaguars can meet student leaders, explore campus resources, enjoy live music, and a complimentary lunch while exploring how to get involved on campus.
• Wrap up the week at the Blend Into Success: Fuel Your Future at the Food Pantry event on Friday, September 4 at noon in room B1242. Learn about available food resources, services, and hours. There will also be complimentary smoothie samples, recipe cards and snack bags, and a drawing for a portable blender cup while supplies last!

Click here for the full roster of Welcome Week events.

Questions? Email GetInvolved@govst.edu.