WOW events build Niner Nation pride

Week of Welcome (WOW) is an annual tradition and helps the University kick off the academic year. More than 50 events take place between Friday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 24.

The focus of WOW is to celebrate Niner pride and welcome all new and returning students to campus and will offer various opportunities for engagement within the UNC Charlotte community, said Emily Jensen, associate director for new student services in the Division for Student Affairs.

Key events include the Block Party, Student Union Takeover, Student Organizations Showcase, Goin’ Green with the Dean and the NPHC Yard Show.

RecFest and 49er New Year will be Sunday, Aug. 17. RecFest is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. at the Northeast Recreational Field Complex and will feature demonstrations from group fitness instructors, sport club members and intramural leagues, along with music, free food and other fun activities. The first 1,250 students receive a free T-shirt (with UNC Charlotte ID).

49er New Year will be 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Barnhardt Student Activity Center. A celebration of 49er spirit, 49er New Year will feature a number of campus resources, a live band, T-shirts, student organization performances, caricature artists, tailgate games, free food and more At 6:49 p.m., 49er New Year attendees will celebrate with the first-ever “Axe-Drop.”

Faculty and staff members are invited to participate in Week of Welcome activities and to engage with students at these events. The “Week of Welcome” website has more information on activities planned through Aug. 24.