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August 11, 2020 —  51�������� students are heading back to campus again, but this new school year is very different than others. With the ongoing pandemic, 51�������� has adapted some traditions, like Victorfest, to promote social distancing while keeping the heart of the back to school experience.

The university also extended Move-In Day into a week to reduce density in the residence halls and on campus. Students can visit University Housing’s for more information on Move-In Week and schedule a move-in appointment from Aug. 11-16.

“While this year may look different, it’s wonderful to be on our beautiful campus welcoming students back to their home away from home,” said Arnie Slaughter, Interim Chief Student Affairs Officer and Dean of Students. “Throughout the summer, our team has been working hard to anticipate our students needs and address them. A lot of planning went into programming to keep them engaged while social distancing.” 

After 20 years celebrating the beginning of the academic year at 51��������, Victorfest is getting a makeover. The university has changed up the annual welcome week with events like a drive-in movie night and virtual Day of Service, which will allow students to share experiences while social distancing. Victorfest events kick off on August 17 and continue through the first week of classes. 

“Shifting Victorfest virtually really challenged us and made us reconsider the way we plan student engagement and involvement on campus,” Sarah Aikman, Interim Senior Director of Student Engagement and Director of the Student Union/University Center. “51�������� Student Engagement.  “But, Victorfest– at its core– is about celebrating our campus community and the beginning of a new academic year. Once we focused on that, we realized planning some fun, social distanced events will help reduce the anxieties of a new semester.” 

This year, there are some new things for students to remember as they return to campus.