All together now ... Here we go, Maroons!
This fall, Roanoke College is proud to welcome more than 600 new Maroons — both new freshmen and transfer students — who are joining the Roanoke tradition of discovery and innovation.
This freshmen class is our largest since 2019. Its remarkable students come from across 32 states and 31 countries.
Their arrival on campus for move-in weekend (Aug. 27 for new students) will be marked by a bustling lineup of Welcome Week events that kick off with the President’s Welcome with Frank Shushok Jr. followed by a campus-wide cookout.
“Nothing is more electric than a campus bulging with the energy, creativity, sensitivity, and capacity of new Maroons,” President Shushok said. “In these moments, it’s not lost on me that we’re beginning anew the business of preparing another generation of students to make their mark on the world. I’m grateful we get to be part of such inspiring work.”
Other festivities — including games, downtown tours and an introduction to one of our most popular student traditions, campus bingo — will follow. The Class of 2027 will be equipped with everything it needs to truly make Roanoke its own. We can't wait to see the incredible heights they’ll rise to over the next four years.
FAST FACTS
CLASS OF 2027
11.5% RC Honors Program students
9% International students
46.6% Out-of-state students
27% Pell-eligible students
43% Students who are first-generation, underrepresented minorities or from underserved backgrounds
"As we start another school year, we are focused on making sure students have everything they need to succeed,” said Brian Reed, Vice President for Student Success & the Roanoke Experience. “We're putting our hearts into creating a supportive community that encourages learning, creativity, and connection."
Here are some of the not-to-be-missed events coming up for Welcome Week. More information can be found at roanoke.edu/WelcomeWeek.
SATURDAY, AUG. 26
Returning Student Move-In: The residence halls will be open for the new semester! Sophomores, juniors and seniors will return to campus and set up their rooms.
SUNDAY, AUG. 27
New Student Move-In: The Class of 2027 will arrive in style with Residence Life and student volunteers ready to help them carry their gear and settle into their new homes.
President’s Welcome: New students will be greeted by President Shushok and sign their names into the campus archive ledgers that have recorded each class of Maroons for years.
Campus Cookout: Have we mentioned that our dining program is helmed by our own in-house chef? Chef Matt Phillips and his team will serve dinner for the entire campus community immediately after the President’s Welcome.
New Student Bingo: We’re not kidding when we call bingo a campus favorite. The hype is real. Come experience it firsthand.
MONDAY, AUG. 28
First-Generation Student Meetup: Did you know Roanoke College has an honor society celebrating first-generation college students? Come learn about this and other resources available.
Downtown Roanoke: We’re going to paint the town Maroon with activities throughout downtown Roanoke and its vibrant art, dining and shopping scenes. Students across all years are welcome to join the events that will start at the historic Roanoke City Market Building. Faculty and staff are invited too.
TUESDAY, AUG. 29
Opening Convocation: This is the official kickoff of the academic year. President Shushok and Dean Kathy Wolfe will lead the ceremony that starts at 10 a.m. in the Cregger Center arena. Special guest speakers include Morehead Award winners Mazie Roop ’26 and Raegan Middelthon ’24. Maggie Rahmoeller and Ivonne Wallace Fuentes, faculty members who received this year’s Teaching Award, will speak as well.
Campus Lunch Cookout: Let’s soak up summer sunshine while we can with more al fresco dining on the Back Quad.
Evening Courses Begin: Students with evening classes on their schedule take note.
Craft Night: Campus Activities Board is celebrating Welcome Week with RC Craft Night for new and returning Maroons. CAB has prepared four customizable dorm décor crafts for students to choose from.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 30
First Full Day of Classes: Not to be missed for obvious reasons.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 01
FOTQ & Activities Fair: Friday on the Quad is a campus tradition that brings everyone together each week in September for music, food, fresh air and fellowship. The kickoff also highlights our more than 140 campus clubs, honor societies, Greek organizations and other opportunities for student activities. Dive into the crowd to connect with people who love the things you love.
Open Mic Night: Take center stage at the Cavern during open mic night. All talents welcome. Bonus nacho bar included.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 02
Laser Tag: Students from across campus will take over the Bast Center for laser fun.
