Welcome Week
Spring 2026
January 19 - 23, 2026
Welcome Week is all about starting a new journey, learning
about the GovState campus and meeting new people. Come out
and celebrate the beginning of a new semester with the
Center for Student Engagement and Leadership!
Schedule of Events
All Week - Instagram
Mini Desk Montage Challenge
- Show off your study style, Jaguars! Whether it’s your cozy setup at home or your favorite spot on campus, we want to see where you get things done. Snap a pic or short video of your desk, add a touch of your personality, and tag #GovMiniDeskMontage for a chance to be featured on our page! Let’s see those creative, organized, and totally “YOU” study zones! Winner announced on Friday. Questions? Email SAC@govst.edu.
Tuesday, January 20
SAC’s Paint & Sip
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: D1496
- Join the Student Activities Council for a fun and creative afternoon celebrating school spirit! Grab a canvas, pick up a brush, and let your pride shine through school-themed art. Sip on your favorite (non-alcoholic) drinks, enjoy great music, and connect with classmates in a relaxed, colorful atmosphere. No painting experience needed, just bring your energy, creativity, and school pride! Limited seats. Early arrival highly suggested. Questions? Email SAC@govst.edu.
Open Mic Night
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
- The Student Success Initiative (SSI) invites all Jaguars out for a fun, welcoming evening where mentors and mentees come together to share their voices! Whether it’s a poem, a song, a story, or a quick reflection on your mentoring journey, SSI's Open Mic Night is a chance to connect, celebrate creativity, and build community. No performance experience needed—just bring your talent, your energy, and your support for others. Light refreshments provided. Come share, listen, and be inspired! Questions? Email SSI@govst.edu.
Wednesday, January 21
Stamp Your Impact: Hot Chocolate Social
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
- Stop by for our Stamp Your Impact: Hot Chocolate Social, a warm and welcoming collaboration between Greek Life and Civic Engagement! Enjoy a cozy cup of hot chocolate while connecting with Greek organizations and Kaleidoscope Community Service Council student leaders.
Students can participate in the Passport Challenge by:
• speaking with one student in a Greek lettered organization;
• speaking with one Greek-lettered organization faculty or staff;
• identifying one community service opportunity during the Spring semester;
• following Kaleidoscope, SAC, or Greek Life on social media.
Completed passports will be entered into a raffle for a $25 gift card.
SAC’s Debate Court
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
- The Student Activities Council (SAC) will host a live debate formatted as a mock courtroom hearing, putting popular media on trial. Students serve as attorneys, witnesses, judges, and jury members as they argue major questions about the influence of movies, music, social platforms, and celebrity culture on society. Questions? Email SAC@govst.edu.
GovState Basketball Doubleheader
Time: Women’s Game 5:30 p.m. | Men’s Game 7:30 p.m.
Location: GovState Gym
- Cheer on the GovState Jaguars as they take on Holy Cross. Free with MyOne Card.
Thursday, January 22
Student Club & Organization Resource Fair
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors
- Meet student leaders, learn how to join recognized student clubs and Greek organizations and enjoy the Welcome Week festivities. Inquiries? Email GetInvolved@govst.edu.
Midnight Madness
Time: 9 p.m.
Location: GovState Gym
- Indulge in many athletic sports from Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball and more!
Friday, January 23
Journaling Circle with SAC
Time: 12 p.m.
Location: D1496
- Take a mindful break and join the Student Activities Council for a relaxing Journaling Circle! Connect with fellow students, reflect, and express yourself through guided prompts and creative writing. Whether you’re a seasoned journal-er or just starting out, this is your space to unwind, share positive energy, and focus on self-care.
Visit Jaguar Connection or e-mail GetInvolved@govst.edu with any inquiries.
SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE