Fall Welcome Week

Fitness Class

Start your semester off with a Fitness Class. Join our Fitness Instructors from the Wellness Recreation Center for a FREE Saturday morning workout.

Hosted by Recreation Services

Find Your Way 5k

A guided run around campus to showcase the campus and help new students get acquainted with the area. All abilities welcome!

Hosted by Panther Pacers

Panthers Downtown

Check out all that the Cedar Falls Downtown District has to offer! Take part in a scavenger hunt, score some exclusive deals, and have the chance to win gift certificates to Downtown. Free UNI tote bag while supplies last!

Shuttles will be available from campus to downtown and back - buses will pick up/drop off at the Admissions Welcome Center on campus.

Hosted by Student Success & Retention and Cedar Falls Downtown District

Chess Club Meet and Greet

We will be meeting together to hang out and play some games! If you are interested in joining chess club or seeing what it is all about, feel free to come out and join us!

Hosted by UNI Chess Club

Paddle on the Pond

Come join the outdoor crew on the North Pond and try out Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks or Canoes. 

Hosted by UNI Outdoors

Chick-fil-A Party with Chi Alpha Campus Ministry

FREE Chick-fil-A. Need we say more? Join us Saturday, August 23rd at the fields behind McLeod for free food, 9-square, volleyball, and a chance to meet tons of other UNI students. Whether you're hungry, looking for a campus ministry, or just want to have fun, this is the place to be!

Hosted by Chi Alpha Campus Ministry

BINGO

Try your luck at BINGO for your chance to win awesome prizes such as legos, kindles, smart TVs, and more!

Hosted by Student Success & Retention

Soap Hockey

Join us for a night of yard games, all you can eat ice cream and 4v4 Soap Hockey tournament! 

Hosted by the Oaks International Campus Ministry

Salt Co. Pancake Party

Picture this: Free pancakes all night long, volleyball, bags, and spikeball ready to be played, and then people wrestling in pancake batter!! It's a super fun event and a great way to meet new people and get connected! Hope to see you there!

Hosted by The Salt Company Student Fellowship

Welcome Picnic with Catholic Student Association

After 10:30 AM Mass there will be a picnic & a social! After 7 PM Mass there will be desserts & a social!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

Back to School Sunday with Chi Alpha

Join Chi Alpha at Sent Church to welcome in the new school year! We'll have FREE FOOD TRUCKS following the 10:30 service. Come as you are!

Hosted by Chi Alpha

UNI Soccer vs Western Illinois

CSBS Cookie Social

Please join the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences as we welcome you back to campus with a cookie social! Greet faculty, staff and fellow students while enjoying a tasty treat on us. Open to all students, new and returning. Feel free to bring a friend (or two!) and stop by anytime between 1-2:30 p.m.

Hosted by the CSBS Dean's Office

New Honors Student Social

Meet your honors ambassadors & staff and learn more about what to expect from the Honors Program during your first semester at UNI! This event is reserved for University Honors Program participants.

Hosted by Honors & Scholars Programs

Orchesis Fall Auditions

Orchesis is a modern based dance company that started in 1926. We also dance in many different styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, etc! No dance experience is required. If you have any questions or can't make auditions, email us at orchesisuni@gmail.com

Hosted by Orchesis Dance Company

Beat Panther Esports

Panther Esports is challenging students to come beat the best! Try and defeat their competitive players and coaches in games of Smash, Mario Kart, & Rocket League!

Hosted by Panther Esports

Dorm House Meetings

Meet your neighbors! Sunday night is dedicated to time in your new home. Watch for postings, check your email, or touch base with your RA for details about when and where your specific house/hall will be gathering.

LCMS U Welcome Back Party

New and returning students are welcome to join us for our LCMS U Welcome Back Party! Meet fellow students, enjoy free food, games, and fun. We hope to see you there!

Hosted by LCMSU at UNI

Gabby Barrett Concert

Country sensation Gabby Barrett brings her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “I Hope,” “Glory Days,” and “The Good Ones” to the Gallagher Bluedorn for one unforgettable night. This is a rare chance to see one of today’s top country artists in an intimate concert hall setting. Come early for line dancing and a pre-show band in the parking lot! 🎟️ Get tickets now.

Hosted by Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
 

Open Mic Night

Is there something you've been itching to share in front of an audience? Whether its a song, poem, stand-up routine, or anything else, we have an open mic for you, plus snacks.

Hosted by UNI Student Theatre Association (UNISTA)

Salt Company Freshmen Welcome

Come join us on Sunday, August 24th at 8pm for our Freshmen Welcome in the Maucker Union Ballroom. We'll have worship, teaching, a chance for you to meet people and get connected in a small group, and Texas Roadhouse Rolls!

Hosted by The Salt Company Student Fellowship

1st Day Photo & Direction Booths

Snap a picture on your way to class to commemorate your first day of class for the 2025-2026 academic year! You can also stop by these tents to help you find your way to class, just look for the purple and gold pop up tents around campus. 

Freeze Pops From Green Dot!

Stop by and get a FREE freeze pop from Green Dot - UNI's bystander intervention program.

Hosted by Green Dot

Float into the School Year

Float into the school year on a sweet note! Join us on the first day of class for a campus-wide Open House event to enjoy root beer floats and connect with the UNI community. All faculty, staff, and students are invited!

Hosted by the Division of Student Life and the President's Office

Ice Cream Social with Catholic Student Association

Ice cream and root beer floats!!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

1st Day Photo & Direction Booths

Snap a picture on your way to class to commemorate your first day of class for the 2025-2026 academic year! You can also stop by these tents to help you find your way to class, just look for the purple and gold pop up tents around campus. 

Get the Scoop on Philanthropy

Private funding helps put the cherry on top of the Panther experience. Come dish about the UNI Foundation and the donor-supported programs that serve up opportunities for UNI students. Enjoy free ice cream while supplies last!

Hosted by CATS (Connecting Alumni to Students)

Meet, Greet, & Sweet

Meet, Greet, & Sweet at the Student Health Center! Stop by to tour the space, meet our friendly staff from Psychiatric and Counseling Services and the Student Health Clinic, and grab a free coffee and dessert to-go; your first taste of campus care and connection.

Hosted by Student Health Center

Taco Tuesday with Catholic Student Association

Tacos & Fun!!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

Big Acai

Come hang out with UNI Sorority Life and Campus Activities Board and treat yourself to a fantastic Acai Bowl. Learn more about each of our organizations and join the fun today!

Hosted by UNI Sorority Life

History and History Teaching Majors Meet & Greet

All History and History Teaching majors are invited to connect with new and returning History students and faculty. Drop in during the event for refreshments and department swag!

Hosted by Department of History

The Luke Sanders Trio

The Luke Sanders Trio specializes in performing works by jazz guitarists and composers. Though not exclusively, the trio has culled much of its repertoire from the compositions of Julian Lage. Other composers/guitarists included in their repertoire are modern artists Kurt Rosenwinkel and Bill Frisell. The members of the trio are all current UNI School of Music faculty.

Active Minds: Paint & Connect

Students will be provided with tote bags and dorm crafts to paint while getting to know more about our student org Active Minds!

Hosted by Active Minds

Sunset Jo-Yo

Jo-Yo is an interactive experience in journaling and yoga. Individuals are led through an hour practice - combining movement and journaling centered around goals and hopes for the semester! Session is led by UNI Alumna Kayla Becker. Free UNI yoga mats to the first 50 students.

Hosted by Student Success & Retention

Chi Alpha Campus Ministry Fall Launch

Kick off the school year with worship, teaching, and a vision for what God wants to do in your life this year. Our modern service is designed to help you connect with God in a real way. After service we'll have free pizza and an opportunity for you to get connected to a small group! If you're ready to grow with Jesus and find your people at UNI, this is the place to start! We meet every Tuesday night in Lang Hall. Come see what Chi Alpha is all about!

Hosted by Chi Alpha Campus Ministry

West African Drum and Dance Ensemble Drop-In Class

Experience the dynamic music traditions of Ghana, Guinea, Mali, and beyond! Through drum, dance, and song, you'll dive into a vibrant and historical West African performance art. All are welcome! Come visit us at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center to see how you can participate in the School of Music!

Hosted by UNI School of Music

Hydration Station

The Wilson College of Business will be handing out flavored water and fruit to students passing by. Please join us in the Hall of Flags to cool off and refresh with a hydrating drink!

Hosted by the Wilson College of Business

Bites and Flights

Join the Study Abroad Center for a welcome back event! Meet past participants, study abroad staff, and learn about study abroad options. Food provided!

Hosted by the Study Abroad Center

Smart Cookies

Stop by and learn about financial literacy at UNI. Free cookies while supplies last!

Hosted by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships

Brazilian Samba Percussion Ensemble drop in class

Feel the pulse of Brazil's Carnaval! In this high-energy ensemble, you'll learn the powerful styles of parade drumming that will get you moving and expand your rhythmic skills. All are welcome! Come visit us at Russell Hall to see how you can participate in the School of Music!

Hosted by UNI School of Music

UNI Book Lover's Welcome Event

Gather with other book lovers and make some friendship bracelets!

Hosted by UNI Book Lovers

Panthers in Panhellenic Welcome Back Bash

Come join UNI Sorority Life in welcoming all students back onto campus. We will have food, games, and memories to last a lifetime!

Hosted by UNI Sorority Life

Future Teacher Welcome

Mandatory for all new students with a Teacher Education major. This event will help you map out your Teacher Education journey at UNI! Learn about all the in's and out's on your pathway to teaching! Session includes information on Teacher Education application, background checks, resources and pre-service professional development opportunities.

Hosted by College of Education Advising & Teacher Education Success

Cecilians Open Rehearsal

Come join the Cecilians for our first rehearsal of the semester! This rehearsal is an open rehearsal where you can come check out and rehearse with the Cecilians to see if you would like to join!

Hosted by Cecilians

JPEC Connect

Come explore the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and learn about the free services available to support you in starting or running your own business! This event is geared toward students new to the UNI JPEC & will include activities to help motivate & inspire you to tap into our successful network of entrepreneurs & resources in order to follow your own dreams....plus, it includes a free meal! We're excited to meet you!

Hosted by John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)

Philosophy Club Welcome Event

Come join us for a conversation! This will be an introductory event to welcome new club members and discuss our ideas for this upcoming year.

Hosted by Philosophy Club

UNISATO Games & Greetings

Come play games with current AT masters students and faculty while learning a little about sports medicine.

Hosted by Student Athletic Training Organization (UNISATO)

Touch Rugby and Treats

Come and get to learn about women's rugby by playing a chill game of touch rugby. Anyone is welcome to join the team, come and get to know us!

Hosted by Women's Rugby

UNI Baseball Club Informational Meeting: 2025-26 Fall & Spring Seasons

Come join us and learn about what the UNI Baseball Club is all about. Stop by and meet the team and enjoy some pizza in the process!

Hosted by UNI Baseball Club

Crafty Cats

Come get your craft on and make a fun sign for your dorm room or wherever inspiration strikes. Whether it's with Cricut vinyl, paint, or anything else your imagination thinks of, it is sure to be a great time! All supplies provided.

Hosted by Student Success & Retention

Catholic Student Association Adoration & Primetime

There will be Adoration and our traditional Wednesday Primetime Mass outside!!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

Nourish Yourself: Yoga, sensory tour, and produce giveaway at the SPROUT Garden

Take time to nourish yourself as you prepare for the fall semester with a visit to the SPROUT garden, located behind the CEEE. Enjoy a gentle garden yoga flow followed by a sensory excursion through the garden and prairie trails, and don't forget to take home a bag of fresh, handpicked produce when you leave! Resources on self-care, garden recipes, food access, and upcoming events will be available as well!

Hosted by CEEE UNI Local Food Program

Sweeten your year, join Best Buddies!

Best Buddies is hosting a tabling event to welcome new members! Come grab some sweet treats and learn about Best Buddies!

Hosted by Best Buddies

Maucker Union Live: Music Bingo

Start the semester on a high note with Maucker Union Live! We're teaming up with UNI Sorority Life to bring you a fun and energizing Music Bingo event over your lunch hour. Test your music knowledge, win prizes, and connect with students all while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Maucker Union. Whether you're a music bingo pro or just in it for the vibes, this is the perfect midday break to kick off the semester right.

Hosted by Office of Student Involvement

Meet, Greet, & Sweet

Meet, Greet, & Sweet at the Student Health Center! Stop by to tour the space, meet our friendly staff from Psychiatric and Counseling Services and the Student Health Clinic, and grab a free coffee and dessert to-go; your first taste of campus care and connection.

Hosted by Student Health Center

Future Teacher Welcome

Mandatory for all new students with a Teacher Education major. This event will help you map out your Teacher Education journey at UNI! Learn about all the in's and out's on your pathway to teaching! Session includes information on Teacher Education application, background checks, resources and pre-service professional development opportunities.

Hosted by College of Education Advising & Teacher Education Success

Information Meeting on AAF

Join us for an introductory event to the American Advertising Federation! We will be discussing what AAF does, competitions, networking events, and more!

Hosted by American Advertising Federation (AAF)

KPMG Kickoff

The UNI Accounting Club is partnering with the Big 4 CPA Firm KPMG to host our kickoff event for the school year! We will be providing hamburgers and networking opportunities with your fellow students and professionals.

Hosted by UNI Accounting Club

Panhellenic for a Cause

Join UNI Sorority Life and help make tie blankets for the Cedar Bend Humane Society.

Hosted by UNI Sorority Life

Snowcones @ Sunset

Joing NISG for music, snow cones, games, and fun!

Hosted by Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG)

Zeteo Worship Night

Zeteo is our weekly ministry gathering and for the first week we're giving out free t-shirts!!! If you're wanting to grow in your faith or wanting to seek out what you believe we'd love to have you join us.

Hosted by Oaks International Campus Ministry

Silent Disco

Get your groove on at the silent disco dance party. Two DJs will be playing all your favorites and you can switch between the two channels on the headphones for whichever you are feeling!

Hosted by Student Success & Retention

Nerf Gun Battle with Catholic Student Association

Come have some fun doing your favorite childhood memory by having a nerf gun battle!!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

Kaji Daiko Taiko Ensemble Drop-In Class

Discover the art of Japanese Taiko! This powerful and physical drumming style will build strength, rhythm, and endurance as you explore Japan's rich drumming tradition. All are welcome! Come visit us at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center to see how you can participate in the School of Music!

Hosted by UNI School of Music

Check-In Friday @ The JPEC

All are welcome to join us for our first Check-In Friday of the new year! Enjoy an ice cream treat and converse with fellow students about your first week on campus!

Hosted by John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)

UNI Volleyball vs Arizona State

Cheer on the Panthers as they take on Arizona State in volleyball!

Volleyball & Watermelon

Play some sand volleyball and eat some watermelon!!

Hosted by Catholic Student Association

Bowling

Come down for a fun evening of bowling! Free bowling, shoe & ball rental for UNI students. 

Hosted by Student Success & Retention

Oaks International Tailgate

Free Raising Cane's as we tailgate in central campus before the first UNI football game. Wear purple, play yard games and join us in the Dome after. All UNI students welcome to join.

Hosted by Oaks International Campus Ministry

UNI Football vs Butler

Cheer on the Panthers as they take on Butler in football!

UNI Volleyball vs SDSU

Cheer on the Panthers as they take on South Dakota State in volleyball!