UNCW Ready to Welcome New Hawks to the Flock

Beginning Friday, hundreds of staff and volunteers will help UNCW’s new and returning Seahawks make campus their home. Move-In (Aug. 15-16) kicks off UNCWelcome, a slate of  time-honored traditions to officially usher in the new academic year. 
 
“Move-In is one of the most energizing moments of the year at UNCW and marks the true beginning of each Seahawk’s journey and the first chapter of a transformational college experience,” said Christine Reed Davis, vice chancellor for Student Affairs. “They’re not just settling into residence halls, they’re joining a vibrant community that is here to support, inspire and celebrate them every step of the way. We can’t wait to welcome them to their new home.”  
 
Campus Life is pleased to announce the inaugural HawkFest. The new event features carnival games, mechanical rides, food trucks, live entertainment and a drone show.  
 
Convocation, a ceremonial gathering in Trask Coliseum to welcome all incoming undergraduates, is hosted by the Division of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. Zachary Long, associate professor of biology and marine biology and the 2024-25 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, will deliver the keynote address. The event marks the official start of the academic year and is followed by a picnic for all of campus on Hoggard Lawn. 

Signature welcome events include*:  

• Move-In: Aug. 15-16
• Dub After Dark: Saturday, Aug. 16
• HawkFest: Monday, Aug. 18
• Convocation and Campus Lunch: Tuesday, Aug. 19
• Rock the Rec: Tuesday, Aug. 19
• First Day of Classes Yard Show: Wednesday, Aug. 20
• Involvement Carnival: Tuesday, Aug. 26 

During Move-In, heavy traffic on campus and the surrounding area is expected between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. on both days. New students and their families will arrive on Friday or Saturday and check in at either the Cultural Arts Building or Trask Coliseum, depending on their residence hall location. Volunteers are advised to arrive on campus before 7 a.m. and park in the East Deck located off Reynolds Drive. 

A parking permit is required to park on campus. Having a valid permit and following regulations helps alleviate congestion issues. Visit the UNCW Parking Portal for additional information. Please be mindful of temporary road and lot closures, follow the directions of those directing traffic and posted signs and refrain from parking on grass or in fields.  

UNCW Mobile is available to help navigate Move-In and other welcome events. Download via the App Store or Google Play. 

Established in 1947 as Wilmington College with 238 students, today UNCW has nearly 19,000 students and will celebrate its 78th anniversary on Sept. 4. 

*Welcome events are for the campus community and not open to the general public (details).