The Fall 2022 semester began with a series of successful events to welcome new and returning Honors students to campus.
On September 6, over 400 incoming L&S Honors students gathered for an academic orientation with L&S Dean Eric Wilcots, Honors Faculty Director Jenny Saffran, and other Honors Program staff. Students received advice that can help them in their first semester and beyond, including reminders to branch out, go to office hours, and to check in with friends and family. They also learned more about the Honors Program mission, upcoming events, and opportunities to apply for funding. An unexpected fire alarm in the middle of orientation gave students more time to connect with each other outside of the auditorium. Following orientation, Honors students joined new students from across campus for a lunch provided by the Chancellor’s Office, a performance by the UW Marching Band, New Student Convocation in the Kohl Center, and an ice cream social.
To end the second week of classes, the Honors Program invited new and returning Honors students to join a “fall kickoff” on the lawn outside Washburn Observatory. Over 70 students enjoyed conversation with peers and Honors staff, lawn games, and complimentary shaved ice with a variety of flavor options from the Kona Ice truck. The start of the fall semester can be a stressful time of transition, so the event also offered students a chance to relax and spend time with trained therapy dogs from the Dogs on Call organization. Jessie, Millie, and Fritzi were quite a hit, and the weather cooperated beautifully all afternoon. A huge thank you to the Dogs on Call coordinator, volunteers, and Honors staff that made this event possible!
The relationship between the L&S Honors Program and Chadbourne Residential College, a campus learning community focused on the liberal arts, continues to grow in exciting ways. The start of this semester included the first ever Honors-CRC Reception for Honors students living in Chadbourne. Honors Program Faculty Director Jenny Saffran and CRC Faculty Director Jeff Beneker welcomed students and highlighted connections between the two communities. The evening created an informal space for students to chat with each other and program representatives, and students expressed delight in finding other Honors Program students in their residence hall.
Thank you to the many Honors students who are bringing their wonderful energy to campus and to these events!
