Welcome to the Ram Rodeo: A look at what’s in store for this year’s Weeks of Welcome (2024)

By Elinor Frisa

Classes start on Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Virginia Commonwealth University. But so much of what makes the college experience meaningful happens outside the classroom. In the days leading up to and after that first class day, VCU’s annual Weeks of Welcome offers more than 100 events for new and returning students.

Whether it’s their first rodeo or not, all students are invited to celebrate the start of the 2024-25 school year and find their herd at the many WoW events, which range from asilent headphone dance partytotours of Cabell Library,a part-time job fair, ascavenger hunt of the STEM Buildingand more.

A full event listing can be found onRamsConnect, a platform that enables students to view the entire schedule and register for events, as well as access a directory of student organizations.

Some of this year’s signature WoW events include:

Ramily Reunion

Sunday, Aug. 18 – 3:30-7:00 p.m., Monroe Park (620 W. Main St.)

Reunions bring everyone together, and that’s the purpose of this year’s party, which will be held outdoors at Monroe Park. The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs invites all students to join together for fellowship, a tailgate-style meal, games, photo-ops, giveaways, a DJ and more.

New Student Convocation, followed byRam Spirit WalkandBlock Party: Ram Rodeo Roundup

Monday, Aug. 19 – 4-8 p.m., online (visit vcu.edu for link to livestream of convocation) and Commons Plaza (907 Floyd Ave.)

Editor’s note Because the National Weather Service is calling for heavy rain and thunderstorms, New Student Convocation will be held online rather than in-person at Monroe Park. Students are encouraged to watch a livestream of the event by visiting vcu.edu. The Spirit Walk has been canceled. The Block Party is still scheduled to take place at 5:30 p.m in the Commons Plaza as planned.

New Student Convocation marks the official start of the academic year by welcoming new Rams. VCU leaders including President Michael Rao, Ph.D., welcome students and talk about the excitement of the year to come. The event takes place in Monroe Park, and at its conclusion, new students join returning students, faculty, staff, Rodney the Ram and the VCU Peppas for the Spirit Walk, a parade through the streets. The walk begins in the park and ends at the Commons Plaza, where the festivities continue with food (free dinner for the first 2,000 students), music, giveaways and inflatables.

RecWell Rodeo and New Climbing Wall Grand Opening

Thursday, Aug. 22 – 7-9 p.m., Cary Street Gym (101 S. Linden St.)

The Cary Street Gym is a hive of activity and a popular place to work out, take classes and socialize. Students are invited to the RecWell Rodeo to play games, win prizes, check out the grand opening of the new climbing wall, talk to members of VCU Sport Clubs and have fun with the RecWell team. Free treats from Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream and Marco’s Pizza will be available while supplies last.

Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunity Fair

Friday, Aug. 23 – 3-6 p.m., Monroe Park (620 W. Main St.)

Student organizations are an essential part of the VCU experience, and at the Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunity Fair, students get a taste of some of the hundreds of organizations they can join. From the American Nuclear Society at VCU to the Swim Club, there’s something for everyone, with opportunities to pursue new interests, continue lifelong passions or find ways to volunteer in the community – all while making connections with fellow students.

MCV Campus Block Party: Ram Rodeo Roundup

Wednesday, Sept. 4 – 4-6 p.m., in front of Larrick Student Center (900 Turpin St.)

MCV Campus students, faculty and staff are invited to connect with fellow Rams and ring in the new school year with music, games, food trucks and more. Black and gold attire is encouraged.

MCV Campus Resource Fair

Friday, Sept. 6 – 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Larrick Student Center, Court End Ballroom (900 Turpin St.)

All graduate, professional and MCV Campus students are invited to this resource fair to learn about opportunities for involvement in campus life through VCU’s student organizations, departments and programs. Giveaways, free lunch and fun activities highlight this year’s fair.