Annual Events at ESF

These events are offered in the spirit of involving more people in life at ESF and providing opportunities to take a break! They are supported by the Undergraduate Student Activity Fee; most are without additional admission charge.

Orientation

The orientation program at the College of Environmental Science and Forestry takes place the weekend prior to the first day of classes in the fall. Divided into four "tracks", the program is designed to meet the unique needs of various populations joining the ESF community (first year students, families, transfer students, graduate students).

The All College Welcome / Welcome Back Picnic

This is a day of outdoor fun and games, usually held on campus during orientation weekend. Softball, volleyball, Frisbee, hackey-sack, soccer, or just plain relaxing are some of the main attractions. All members of the ESF community are invited, and children are welcome. The food is delicious and plentiful!

Friends and Family Weekend/Annual Fall Barbeque

Held annually since 1913, this event offers the chance for your "home" family to meet and mingle with members of your "ESF family." This old favorite is usually held in September or October.

December Convocation

The December Convocation is a formal recognition ceremony honoring students who complete their degree requirements in December. Featuring an academic procession, a keynote speaker and much picture taking, this event is usually held the last Friday before finals in the fall semester.

December Soriee

This is a semi-formal dinner-dance held the evening of the December Convocation. Sponsored by the student government and hosted by a team of student managers, the program includes fine food, student recognition, music and dancing.

Spring Awards Banquet

An annual event since 1913, this is a special occasion for the entire College. Planned and hosted by a team of student managers, the evening program includes student and guest speakers, recognition of students, faculty and staff for excellence in academics and service, and installation of new student government officers. This semi-formal affair includes dinner, music and dancing, and is usually held in March-April.

Campus Lectures

There are six annual endowed lecture series each year (the oldest is named in honor of George Albrecht '30, and alumnus and former dean of Landscape Architecture). On average there are more than 60 special presentations on the ESF campus, including lectures and seminars, most by guest scientists and made possible by sponsored funding or departmental funds.

Pass the Torch

An event designed to acquaint newly elected club officers with their responsibilities to the institution, their responsibilities to their organization and their responsibilities to one another.  Held March-April, participants receive information on planning their clubs activities, protocol about accessing funds, and helpful leadership skills.

LEAD Series

The LEAD Series offers four workshops which provide opportunities for students to explore their own leadership style and skills. Regardless of your chosen career path there WILL be occasions in which the skills discussed in these sessions will be required.  The LEAD Series is an interactive, practical leadership development opportunity for all ESF students. So, how do you participate? LEAD is offered each semester and runs for four consecutive weeks (one evening per week). Each session is just over an hour in length. Just show up...potential in hand!  Note: anyone who attends all four meetings will receive a special recognition for their achievement (free gift!). Hope to see you at LEAD!

TGIF's

Referred to most often as simply "TG", Thank goodness it's Friday! gatherings are sponsered by student government about once a month on Friday afternoons in Nifkin Lounge. The Graduate Student Association also offers TG's for their constituency. TG's offer free refreshments, and are well attended by students, faculty and staff. It's wise to get there early; the faster the room fills, the faster the food disappears!

Ice Cream Socials

Held at least once each semester regardless of weather, this event features free  hand-dipped ice cream cones and sundaes.

Commencement

The culmination of your academic career at ESF; the celebration is held in early May. After sharing a continental breakfast the degree candidates, faculty and senior administrators walk together to the Carrier Dome, where ESF and SU participate in a joint commencement ceremony. With much pomp and fanfare, degrees are formally awarded.