Welcome Week 2024

In, of, and for the mountains
As we mark new beginnings with the start of the fall semester, we recommit to the principles of our institutional motto—In the Mountains, Of the Mountains, For the Mountains. Our elevated location is sacred and literally and figuratively puts us above the rest. Whether you are returning to the Den or joining us as a new Bobcat we invite you to participate in Welcome Week activities to celebrate, honor, and serve the mountains we call home.

Campus Housing Move-In

To accommodate all students and help ensure safety and convenience, all new and returning students are required to register for a designated move-in time.

Are you new to Lees-McRae? Our friendly student leaders, faculty, and staff will be on hand during your move-in times to help answer questions and get you (and your stuff!) where you need to go.

Have questions? Check out our move-in FAQ

  
Schedule of Activities

SUNDAY, AUG. 11

  FALL ATHLETES  
Student-Athlete Move-In  

8 a.m.–Noon
Check in at Williams Gymnasium

New and returning fall sport student-athletes will arrive to campus and move into residences early in preparation for preseason activities. 
 


 

THURSDAY, AUG. 15

  NEW STUDENTS  
New Student Move-In

8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Check in at Williams Gymnasium

Welcome to Lees-McRae! New students and their families will check in during their allotted time before heading to their residence.

  NEW STUDENTS     FALL ATHLETES  
Dinner

5–7:30 p.m.
The Summit

Meal plans officially begin for the fall semester.

  NEW STUDENTS  
Mandatory Residence Hall Meetings

7:30 p.m.
Individual Residence Halls

Get to know your resident assistant (RA), your best friend during your first year of college, with this quick introduction to on-campus living. 

  NEW STUDENTS  
New Student Welcome

8:15 p.m.
Hayes Auditorium

Close out your first official day on campus with a celebration specifically for you! Hear from President King and Student Affairs staff, and learn about Campus Compass and the fun Welcome Week activities that are planned for you.
 


 

FRIDAY, AUG. 16

  NEW STUDENTS  
Campus Compass

Breakfast
8–9:15 a.m.
The Summit

Bobcats Care
9:15–10:15 a.m.
Evans Auditorium

Learn about Title IX and Accessibility Services provided on campus. We will provide real-life examples and share how to access resources for you to feel safe and succeed at Lees-McRae.

Know the Code
10:20–11 a.m.
Evans Auditorium

Become familiar with the Student Code of Conduct and learn about community values, making positive choices, and aspiring to Bobcat excellence.

Staying Safe on Campus—Campus Safety and Operations
11:05–11:50 a.m.
Evans Auditorium

Stay safe and protected on your academic journey. Learn about how campus operates under certain conditions and about the safety resources designed with you in mind.

Lunch
Noon–1 p.m.
The Summit

Overcoming your First Bad Assignment: Student Success Resources
1–1:45 p.m.
Evans Auditorium

Equip yourself with the tools to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Gain invaluable insights on bouncing back from your first setback and cultivating resilience.

Responding to Mental Health Challenges
1:50–2:30 p.m.
Evans Auditorium

Discover the wealth of mental health resources available on campus and learn how to effectively support your friends facing mental health challenges. Equip yourself with knowledge and strategies to be a compassionate and effective ally in you and your peer's mental wellness journey.

Being an Involved Citizen in Your New Community
2:35–3:20 p.m.
Evans Auditorium

Empower yourself to shape the future and create positive change both locally and beyond. Explore the significance of being an active citizen in your community, and opportunities to make a difference through volunteering with Bobcats Serve.

Playfair
3:30–5 p.m.
Tate Lawn (Rain location: Williams Gymnasium)

Playfair is nationally renowned organization that facilitates a unique team-building experience for all new students. Playfair works to connect students together while building school spirit and unity.

Dinner
5–7:30 p.m.
The Summit


 

SATURDAY, AUG. 17

  RETURNING STUDENTS  
Returning Student Move-In  

8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Check in at Cannon Student Center

Returning students will check in with residence life staff and other college leaders during their allotted time before heading to their residence. 

  ALL STUDENTS   
Wildcat Lake Bash
1–4 p.m.
Wildcat Lake

Enjoy some music and games before classes start! 


 

SUNDAY, AUG. 18

  RETURNING STUDENTS  
Returning Student Move-In  

10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Check in at Cannon Student Center

Returning students will check in with residence life staff and other college leaders during their allotted time before heading to their residence. 

Registered Student Organization Training
3–5 p.m.
Shelton Learning Commons Room 205

All student organizations are required and expected to have at least two executive board members attend this mandatory training.This training will cover important topics to ensure your club has a great year! Learn about utilizing The Den, hosting and marketing your events on campus, and what resources are available to you as a recognized organization on campus.

  ALL STUDENTS  
Sunday Night S'mores  

7–9 p.m.
Nebel Green

Gather around the fire, toast marshmallows, and connect with new friends on the eve of the first day of class to celebrate the start of a new academic year!


 

MONDAY, AUG. 19

  ALL STUDENTS  
Maps and Munchies 

7:30–11 a.m.
The Summit

Our experts are on site to help you navigate to your classes. Stop by the Summit Dining Hall for an energizing breakfast and pick up a campus map.

  ALL STUDENTS  
CAB's Welcome Back Bash

5–8 p.m.
Swank Park

Kick off the new academic year with fun, friends, and festivities that will make your return to campus truly special.


 

TUESDAY, AUG. 20

  INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS  
International Student Orientation

6–7 p.m.
Location TBD

International Orientation is a meeting for all international students to welcome them to the college and share some general information regarding F-1 status. It is required for all new and returning international students.

  ALL STUDENTS  
BINGO

8–9 p.m.
Evans Auditorium

Join Campus Life and guest hosts President Lee King and Tammy King for our first BINGO night of the year!


 

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21

  ALL STUDENTS  
DIY Pennants

3–5 p.m.
North Carolina Building

Stop in to spruce up your bedroom and school spirit by making your own custom felt pennant! Supplies provided.

  ALL STUDENTS  
Dodgeball

7–9 p.m.
Arthur Student Recreation Center (SRC)

Join us for an exciting game of dodgeball and unleash your competitive spirit!


 

THURSDAY, AUG. 22

  ALL STUDENTS   
Free Coffee and Doughnuts! 
8:30 a.m.
Swank Park

Stop by for free coffee and doughnuts while supplies last! Hosted by Common Ground.

  ALL STUDENTS     FACULTY/STAFF  
Convocation  
3:30 p.m.
Hayes Auditorium

Meaning “to come together,” Convocation is a ceremonial gathering of the entire college community to acknowledge and usher in a new academic year. Note: All students should attend wearing special occasion or business dress.

  NEW STUDENTS    
New Student Class Photo  

Following Convocation
North Carolina Building 

Class of 2028 unite! You are part of a new group now. Commemorate your membership with your new classmates by taking a group photo in the heart of campus. 

  ALL STUDENTS   
Club Fair
5–6 p.m.
Swank Park

There are lots of ways to get involved on campus. Why not take a look at all of the student clubs and organizations you can join? And if you don’t see one that interests you, we can show how to start one!

  ALL STUDENTS   
Lees-McRae Theatre Arts: Fall Season Auditions
6:30 p.m.
Hayes Auditorium

Interested in being in the spotlight? The Theatre Arts program is holding open auditions for its upcoming productions. Auditions are open to all Lees-McRae students. We will provide material for auditionees to read and perform. Join us in Hayes auditorium on Thursday Aug. 22. We'll begin paperwork and preparation at 6:30 p.m., and the auditions will begin at 7 p.m. Break a leg!


 

FRIDAY, AUG. 23

  ALL STUDENTS   
Campus Rec Fest
3–6 p.m.
Tate Lawn

Learn more about Campus Recreation at our annual Rec Fest! There will be games going on and fitness challenges set up as you walk around. Prizes available for participants.

  ALL STUDENTS   
Dance Team Auditions
5–7 p.m.
Hayes Auditorium

Try out for our talented dance team!


 

SATURDAY, AUG. 24

  ALL STUDENTS   
Off-Campus Hike
Departs campus at 9 a.m.

  ALL STUDENTS   
Trip to Watauga County Farmers' Market
Departs campus at 9 a.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

  •  

    When can I start moving in?

    Fall season student-athletes begin move-in on Sunday, Aug. 11. Each team is assigned a specifc time slot (coming soon). 

    New and transfer students move in on Thursday, Aug. 15. Returning students move in on Saturday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, August 18. For each day, the following time slots are available for student move-in:

    • 8–10 a.m.
    • 10 a.m.–Noon
    • 1–3 p.m.
  •  

    Can I move in early? What if my roommate is moving in before me?

    Students can only move in on their specific arrival date and time. They cannot move-in early with their roommate/suitemate if their roommate/suitemate has an earlier time. A student will be charged $150 per night if they move in prior to their assigned move-in date.

  •  

    What should I bring? Are there items I cannot move in with me?

    We’re glad you asked! You can see the full list of items to bring and prohibited items here. 

    Items to bring: 

    • Bath towels and washcloths
    • Bed spread
    • Blankets
    • Computer/laptop
    • Ethernet cable
    • Fan
    • First aid supplies
    • Flashlight
    • General cleaning supplies
    • Laundry basket
    • Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
    • Pillows/pillow cases
    • Sheets (extra long twin)
    • Shower shoes and caddy
    • Storage crates
    • Toiletries
    • Towels
    • Trash can and bags
    • Umbrella

    Check with your roommate(s): 

    • Broom, mop, and small vacuum 
    • Carpet/area rug
    • Coffee maker (no exposed heat element)
    • Microwave
    • Refrigerator
    • TV
     
    List of Prohibited Items: 

    • Air conditioners
    • Candles/incense/wax melts
    • Ceramic heaters
    • Griddle or panini press
    • Hot plates
    • Nails/screws (allowed to use tacks and blue painters tape)
    • Plug in string lights
    • Toasters or toaster oven
    • Weapons
    • Other prohibited items as published in our Student Handbook 
  •  

    How can I hang up items in my residence hall room?

    Residents may only use painter’s tape, tacks, and pins to hang up items in their rooms. Command strips are not allowed.

  •  

    Can I take furniture out of my room?

    You are responsible for each item of furniture in your residence hall room and living spaces. Furniture must remain in assigned spaces and cannot be removed or stored in locations other than their assigned room.

  •  

    What’s the laundry situation?

    Washer and dryer units are provided in lobbies or designated locations for our residence halls, villages, and apartments. Our Residence Life staff are excited to provide education and strategies for students’ use of laundry facilities, how to share the washer and dryer units with others in the residence halls, and maintain healthy routines with laundry.
  •  

    What if I don’t get along with my roommate?

    Many individuals are nervous about not getting along with their roommate. Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal, and they may even feel the same way! It is important to communicate with your roommate early and often about your shared expectations for your room. If you need additional help about how to communicate with your roommate, ask your Resident Assistant (RA). 

  •  

    Can I bring my pet?

    Students are allowed to apply for a dog or cat to reside on campus with them in pet-friendly housing. The deadline for returning students has passed. The application deadline for new students will be announced soon. 

    Pet policy

  •  

    How do I get involved?

    Building relationships and making new friends in your residence hall is one of the best parts of your college experience.  You will see these individuals many times throughout the year, and your Resident Assistants are excited to create a sense of community on your floors and across campus. 

    Our Welcome Week events, residence life, and campus life programs offer excellent opportunities throughout the year to build a sense of belonging at Lees-McRae College. Also, we invite you to attend our Student Club Fair to learn about ways to get involved in student organizations across campus.

    Download the Involve app (Apple)

    Download the Involve app (Google Play) 

    View the events calendar

  •  

    How do I contact somebody for help?

    If you need assistance between the hours of 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., you may contact the Office of Student Affairs at 828.898.5241 or studentaffairs@lmc.edu. After 5 p.m., each area of campus has a Resident Assistant on duty which you may contact if you are in need of assistance. These numbers are posted throughout your residence hall. In case of an emergency, you may also contact Campus Police and Security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 828.260.0505.

  •  

    How do I get my parking pass?

    Parking passes must be purchased ahead of time (more information to come). They will be available for pickup at your designated move-in time.
  •  

    What if I have more questions?

    Have a question that wasn't answered here? Review the Lees-McRae Student Handbook or reach out to the Office of Student Affairs.