Fall Orientation

August 27–30, 2026

Fall Orientation is more than a checklist — it’s your warm welcome, your launchpad, and your first real taste of life as a Golden Flyer. From the moment you arrive on campus, you’ll be invited into the Flyer community, supported in your transition, and set up with the confidence and tools you need to begin your academic journey with purpose.

Starting with move-in and culminating just before the first day of classes — orientation blends meaningful connections, practical preparation, and a bit of fun. You’ll meet fellow new students, peer leaders, faculty, and staff; explore campus resources and support systems; dive into academic expectations; and discover the traditions and values that make Nazareth your new home.

Nazareth campus in fall

Before Orientation

Once it becomes available on July 14 and prior to orientation, new students must complete an asynchronous online onboarding course. Course details »

Schedule

Student-athletes playing fall sports (men's & women's soccer, men's & women's cross country, women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's field hockey, rugby) should plan to arrive on campus early for two extra days of orientation on Monday, August 17 and Tuesday, August 18.

Monday, August 17
8 a.m.–Noon Move-in (Kearney Hall)
Welcome to campus, student-athletes—your Naz experience starts now! Head to Residential Life in Kearney Hall to grab your key, get settled, and kick off an incredible season ahead.
Noon–1 p.m. Lunch with Families (Forum & Cabaret, Shults Center)
Kick off your day with a delicious meal and meet the Athletics team! Connect with fellow families and staff before diving into an exciting day of Orientation activities.
1–1:15 p.m. Family Departure & Transition (Forum & Cabaret, Shults Center)
An informal time for students and their supporters to say goodbye at their own pace. Families part ways as students begin their exciting journey into campus life.
1:15–2 p.m. * Student-athlete Experience (Peckham Hall, rooms 012–014)
Hear from Athletic Director Pete Bothner about life as a student-athlete and the importance of compliance. Learn how to thrive on and off the field while navigating campus life successfully.
2:05–3:05 p.m. * Building a Culture of Safety & Respect (Peckham Hall, rooms 012–014)
Join Associate Dean Vicky Gebel, Title IX Coordinator Heather Sourwine, and Director of Campus Safety Ray Cruz. Learn how Naz fosters a safe, respectful, and inclusive campus environment for all students.
3:10–4:10 p.m. * Be Bold. Be G.O.L.D. (Peckham Hall, rooms 012–014)
Discover how to be an active bystander and make a positive impact on campus life. Learn practical ways to contribute to a strong, supportive, and connected Naz community.
4:15–4:35 p.m. * Academic Support Services (Peckham Hall, rooms 012–014)
Hear from Dillon Smith and Amanda Myers about resources for academic success and accessibility. Learn how academic advising and campus support services can help you thrive at Naz.
4:40–5:25 p.m. * Center for Life’s Work and Finding a Job on Campus (Peckham Hall, rooms 012–014)
Learn from the Center for Life’s Work team how to gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom. Discover opportunities for first-year students, including internships, campus jobs, and career-building experiences.
7–8:30 p.m. Team Bonding (Fairport Pickleball Club)
Join your fellow first-year fall athletes for an energetic pickleball session at Fairport Pickleball Club. Build connections, have fun, and kick off the season with team spirit!
Tuesday, August 18
8:30–11 a.m. * Fall Student-athlete Morning of Service (Forum, Shults Center)
Join the Weider Student Engagement Office for a morning of meaningful service in the Rochester community. Make an impact, connect with teammates, and give back as you start your Naz journey.

* required

8/27
Thursday, August 27
8:30–12:30 p.m. New Resident Students Move-in (Parking Lot A)
Kick off your Naz experience by starting in A Lot before heading to your residence hall. Pick up your key, meet your neighbors, and get settled into campus life!
8:30–1 p.m. Fire Spraying for Tapestries, Curtains, Other Fabric Decor (Kearney Quad)
Ensure your tapestries, curtains, and other fabric decorations are safe for your residence hall. Get them fire-sprayed and tagged—a unique Naz opportunity to personalize your space safely!
9–2 p.m. * Orientation Check-in (Millie’s, Wilmot Library)
Grab your name tag, swag, and all the info you need for a great start at Naz. Find out your Naz in Action location and get ready for an exciting day of Orientation activities!
9–2 p.m. Taking Care of Business (across campus)
Visit key offices around campus to complete important tasks before the semester begins. Get everything set up so you can start your Naz journey smoothly and stress-free!
11–2 p.m. Presidents Lunch (Forum, Shults Center and Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Enjoy a special lunch with your supporters, courtesy of Naz Dining! Tickets are free but required—pick them up at Orientation Check-In in Millie’s.
2–3 p.m. Resource Fair (Upper Lobby, Arts Center)
Explore campus offices and services designed to support your success at Naz. Learn about the resources available to help you thrive academically, personally, and socially.
3–4 p.m. * Orientation Kick-off & Pep Rally (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Start your Naz journey with energy, excitement, and school spirit! Celebrate with your fellow students as we rally together for an unforgettable Orientation experience.
3–4 p.m. Family & Supporter Happy Hour (Wegman Family Sculpture Garden)
Relax and connect with other families and supporters in a casual, welcoming setting. Enjoy refreshments and conversation as you celebrate the start of your student’s Naz journey.
4 p.m. Family & Supporter Departure
Families and supporters say goodbye to their students.
4–5:15 p.m. * Meet Your Orientation Group (departing from Callahan Theater)
Connect with your fellow new students and Peer Leaders in a fun, welcoming setting. Start building friendships and get ready to navigate your Naz experience together!
5:30–7 p.m. * Residential Students: Floor Meeting & Dinner with your Floor (residence hall floors)
Meet your Residential Leader and fellow floor-mates while learning about life in your residence hall. Enjoy dinner together and start building a strong, connected community on your floor.
5:30–7 p.m. * Commuter Students: Meeting & Dinner with Commuter Peer Leaders (Forum, Shults Center)
Connect with Commuter Peer Leaders and fellow commuter students in a welcoming space. Enjoy dinner together while building community and learning how to make the most of your Naz experience.
7:15–8:45 p.m. * New Student Convocation and Community & Belonging Candlelight Ceremony (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Celebrate the official start of your Naz journey at this meaningful campus tradition. Reflect, connect, and embrace your place in the community during a memorable candlelight ceremony.
9–11 p.m. Flyer Fest (Kidera Gym, Shults Center)
Kick off your first night at Naz with inflatables, caricature artists, and nonstop fun. Enjoy great vibes, exciting activities, and an unforgettable start to your campus experience!

* required

8/28
Friday, August 28
8–10 a.m. Check-in (Shults Center, room 100)
For students arriving after the first day or who missed initial check-in. Pick up your name tag, swag, and all the essentials to jump into Orientation smoothly!
8–9 a.m. Breakfast with Orientation Group (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Meet at the front of the Dining Commons to get directions to your group’s breakfast location. Enjoy a meal while connecting with your Peer Leaders and fellow new students to start the day energized!
9–9:20 a.m. * Core Curriculum with Scott Campbell (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Learn about Naz’s general education requirements and how they shape your academic journey. Discover how the Core Curriculum connects courses, ideas, and experiences across your time at Naz.
9–9:20 a.m. Academic Support, if you did not attend S.O.A.R. (Forum, Shults Center)
Learn about the academic resources and advising services available at Nazareth. Get the guidance you need to succeed and make the most of your first semester.
9:45–10:30 a.m. * Department Meetings & Meet Your Advisor (location listed on orientation name tags)
Meet faculty and staff from your academic department to learn about your major or program. Ask questions, explore opportunities, and get insights to succeed in your chosen field.
9:45–11 a.m. International Student Meeting (Golisano Academic Center, room 131)
Connect with Laura Barnard to learn about resources and support for international students. Get guidance on navigating campus life, academics, and community as you start your Naz journey.
10:30–11 a.m. * School of Education students: School of Education Meeting (Golisano Academic Center, room 211)
School of Education students meet with faculty and staff to learn about program expectations and opportunities. Get guidance, ask questions, and connect with the community that will support your success in education.
10:30–11 a.m. * Pre-health students: Pre-health Advising (location TBD)
Meet with advisors to explore courses, opportunities, and guidance for your Pre-Health minor. Learn how to plan your path and make the most of your first year in the program.
11–11:20 a.m. * Class Photo (Smyth Hall lawn)
Wear your Naz in Action t-shirt and join your fellow new students for a memorable group photo. Capture the start of your Naz journey and celebrate being part of the community!
11:30–12:30 p.m. Lunch (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Enjoy a meal with friends or take some time to yourself in the Lourdes-Kearney Dining Commons. Refuel and relax before your next Orientation activities!
11:30–12:30 p.m. Halal Lunch & Jum’ah Prayer with Nazareth Muslim Student Association (Sulam Center)
Join the Nazareth Muslim Student Association for a Halal lunch and Jum’ah prayer. Connect with community members and participate in a meaningful spiritual and cultural experience on campus.
12:30–4:30 p.m. * NazInAction (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Participate in community service projects in Rochester with your Orientation group, hosted by the Weider Community Engagement Office. Make an impact, build connections, and experience hands-on learning beyond the classroom.
5:30–6 p.m. Shabbat Gathering (Echo Circle, Shults Center southeast entrance)
6–7:30 p.m. * Dinner with Orientation Groups and NazInAction Reflection (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Share a meal with your Orientation group while reflecting on your Naz in Action experiences. Discuss insights, celebrate contributions, and connect with peers over a meaningful evening.
7:30–8:30 p.m. * Culture, Community, & Belonging Student Panel (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Hear from students representing diverse identities as they share their Nazareth experiences. Learn about campus culture, community, and ways to feel connected during your time at Naz.
8:30–10:30 p.m. Casino Night (Kidera Gym, Shults Center)
Join one of Nazareth’s most beloved Orientation traditions for a night of games and excitement. Try your luck, have fun with friends, and win awesome prizes!

* required

8/29
Saturday, August 29
8:30–10 a.m. Breakfast (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Enjoy breakfast on your own or catch up with friends in the Lourdes-Kearney Dining Commons. Fuel up for a day full of Orientation activities and connections!
10–11 a.m. * How to Get a Job On Campus & Meet Your Career Coach (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Learn about on-campus job opportunities and meet your Career Coach from the Career Design Office within the Center for Life’s Work. Get personalized guidance, tips, and resources to kickstart your professional experience at Naz.
11–12:15 p.m. * On-campus & Part-time Job Fair (Kidera Gym, Shults Center)
Explore a variety of on-campus and local part-time job opportunities to gain experience and earn while you learn. Connect with employers, ask questions, and discover positions that fit your schedule and interests.
12:15–1:30 p.m. Lunch (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Enjoy lunch on your own or catch up with friends in a relaxed setting. Refuel and recharge before your next Orientation activities!
1:30–3:45 p.m. * Meta-major Mixer (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Collaborate with fellow students and consultants in your discipline to create the ultimate mocktail representing your field of study. Have fun, get creative, and celebrate your academic interests in a tasty and engaging way!
4–5 p.m. * Title IX & Campus Safety (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Learn about your rights, resources, and how Nazareth promotes a safe and respectful campus environment. Hear from campus leaders on reporting procedures, safety practices, and ways to support a positive community.
5–5:45 p.m. * Be Bold! Be Gold! (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Discover how to be an active bystander and make a positive impact on campus life. Learn practical ways to contribute to a strong, supportive, and connected Naz community.
5:45–7:15 p.m. Dinner (Dining Commons at Lourdes-Kearney)
Enjoy dinner on your own or share a meal with friends in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Refuel and unwind while connecting with your campus community.
7:15–8:15 p.m. * Maximize Your Buzz (Callahan Theater, Arts Center)
Learn how to make safe and responsible choices around alcohol while enjoying social events. Gain practical tips for staying safe, having fun, and looking out for yourself and others.
8:30–10:30 p.m. Boom Boom Bingo (Kidera Gym, Shults Center)
Join one of Nazareth’s favorite traditions as bingo comes to Orientation! Have fun, play along, and compete for prizes in this lively and entertaining game night.

* required

8/30
Sunday, August 30
9:30-10:30 a.m. Morning Yoga (Garen Peace Garden and Fountain)
Take a moment to breathe, stretch, and reset before the semester begins. Join Lynne Boucher for a relaxing and welcoming outdoor yoga session by the fountain on the final day of Orientation. This all-levels class is designed to help you unwind, connect with your surroundings, and center yourself as you prepare for the start of classes.
10–11 a.m. St. Luke Tabernacle Church Worship Service Followed by Coffee and Donuts with Nazareth Christian Fellowship (Linehan Chapel)
Attend a worship service at St. Luke Tabernacle Church and connect with the Nazareth Christian Fellowship. Stay afterward for coffee and donuts while meeting fellow students and community members.
10–1 p.m. Shopping Shuttles (Golisano Training Center)
Hop on the shuttle from campus to Target, Walmart, and Wegmans to pick up all your back-to-school essentials! Space is limited, so tickets are required (don’t worry—they’re free!). Students can reserve their seat starting the first day of Orientation.
10–2 p.m. First Year Voice & Dance Share Out (Arts Center, room 48)
All musical theatre first-year students should come prepared to dance and sing. Please bring dance attire and 32 bars of any musical theatre repertoire.
1–3 p.m. Find Your Classes Tour (Echo Circle, Shults Center southeast entrance)
Explore campus with Student Ambassadors from Admissions to locate your classrooms and key buildings. Get comfortable navigating Nazareth and feel confident for your first day of classes!
1–5 p.m. Wellness Programming (location TBD)
Drop in throughout the day for wellness activities designed to help you relax and recharge. Take time to settle in, learn self-care strategies, and prepare for your first day of classes.
6–7 p.m. Sundae Scaries with John Rigney (Millie's, Wilmot Library)
Enjoy ice cream treats while hearing tips from John Rigney on managing stress and navigating campus life. Relax, reflect, and learn strategies to tackle the “sundae scaries” as you start your semester at Naz.
7–8 p.m. Catholic Mass Followed by Cocoa & Cupcakes (Linehan Chapel)
Attend a Catholic Mass on campus and join fellow students for cocoa and cupcakes afterward. Celebrate faith, community, and connection in a warm and welcoming setting.

Sensory-friendly Spaces

Some orientation events will have music, visual stimuli, and close physical proximity to others. If you need to step away and take a break, we have quiet and sensory-friendly rooms across campus.