Beginning of Semester Fun

September 23, 2024
Two students pose with Leo the Lion

Take a look back at some of the roaring events we had to kick off the fall semester!

From welcome week to homecoming, we had a great time during the first month of the fall 2024 semester.

See More Campus Traditions

Two people play cornhole in the housing parking lot

We welcomed students back on Move-in Day with games, music and our annual Cookout with a Cop event!

People dance at the Hammond Welcome Rally

From music to food and giveaways, our Hammond Campus Welcome Rally had everything students needed to get the semester started with Pride!

People walk around and look at tables in the Westville gym.

Students, faculty and staff got plenty of swag and food at the Westville Welcome Rally.

People crowd sidewalks on the Hammond Campus during a Welcome Rally

Student organizations, departments, colleges and more came out to support students during both Welcome Rallies.

Two students pose with Leo the Lion

Even Leo is excited to kick off the new semester!

Five students lean into each other and smile at a camera. There are more people in the background of the photo

Unity Hub's barbecue allowed students to reconnect with old friends and meet some new ones!

Five students pose together outside. They are holding plates of food

Unity Hub welcomed students back with a barbecue, complete with music, a bouncy house, food, games and more!

Two students stand in the Mane Zone and hold up lion stuffed animals.

Happy birthday, Leo! The PNW community was invited to celebrate our very own Leo the Lion's birthday in the Mane Zone. Attendees got to enjoy cake, games and make their own Leo stuffed animals.

Two people battle with inflatable bats

This year's Homecoming Sports fest was full of competition on the field, the ice and in on the inflatables!

PNW Dance and Cheer teams pose behind a "Sports Fest" yard sign

Students, faculty, staff, community members and sports fans gathered to cheer on the Pride at the 2024 Homecoming Sports Festival in Dowling Park.