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Pacific launches new academic year with dynamic lineup of events
Students pose for a photo with Powercat during Pacific Welcome 2023.
The start of the new academic year at University of the Pacific is bursting with exciting events, rich traditions and immersive activities.
Pacific Welcome, held annually a week before school starts, will take place Aug. 17-25. See the full schedule.
The week kicks off with student move-in and orientation, followed by a wide array of activities, including a community festival, student activities fair, community service, opportunities to try pickleball, padel and cricket and much more.
"We are thrilled to be welcoming our new students—and their families—to Pacific,” said President Christopher Callahan, who hosts receptions at the President’s Residence for all new students and another backyard reception just for parents and family members.
“Move-in day and the great Week of Welcome festivities are wonderful opportunities for all of us to get to know our new students and families and start forging the bonds that will last a lifetime.”
Exploring the college experience
Signature events begin Wednesday, Aug. 21 with the new student convocation inside the Alex G. Spanos Center—a new location this year to accommodate Pacific’s ever-growing class of incoming students. The event brings together faculty and administration to welcome new students and set the stage for their education at Pacific.
Incoming students are welcomed during Pacific's traditional Tiger Roar.
Convocation is followed by Tiger Roar, a cherished tradition at Pacific during which students walk across campus in a confetti-filled parade to historic Knoles Hall for the all-campus luncheon.
“We are thrilled to welcome students back to campus,” said Vice President for Student Life Maria Blandizzi. “They bring our campus to life, and we match that energy with events that will get them excited for the new semester along with resources to help them be successful.”
Connecting with the community
Students will get the chance to explore the surrounding community through diverse activities. A late-night shopping spree at Target is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 8-11 p.m., with shuttle buses departing every 30 minutes from Burns Tower.
Students, staff, faculty and alumni are invited to Tigers Prowlin’ the Mile on Friday, Aug. 23, a community gathering at the nearby Miracle Mile shopping district.
The Miracle Mile features a variety of specialty shops, boutiques, outdoor dining options and a lively nightlife scene. Several businesses and restaurants provide discounts to those with a Pacific ID card. Check the PacificCard site for a list of participating merchants.
Students support the community during the Pacific Day of Service.
Students, faculty and staff can join community service projects at 18 locations across Stockton Thursday, Aug. 22 for the Pacific Day of Service. Volunteers will provide vital support at food banks, parks, shelters, senior centers, schools and other community organizations.
Creating on-campus connections
Campus departments, partners and students can participate in the Take Care Fair, an interactive event focused on mental health, well-being and holistic care. This activity will also feature informational sessions and free giveaways to all participants.
Students participate in a variety of interactive events spread throughout campus.
President Christopher Callahan and First Lady Jean Callahan will open their on-campus home to new students at a reception Friday, Aug. 23 where they will get a chance to meet the president.
On-campus fun and festivities
Students interested in cricket can watch a demonstration by the Pacific Cricket Team, participate in a match and enjoy fresh samosas and tea Wednesday, Aug. 21st at Pacific’s on-campus cricket pitch, which recently opened in March.
The newly launched pickleball and padel courts are open for a late night of games Thursday, Aug. 22.
The annual Block Party hosted by ASuop, the student governing association, will include an evening of music and giveaways Saturday, Aug. 23.
Students celebrate the start of a new school year with the annual ASuop block party and concert.
The annual Block Party hosted by ASuop, the student governing association, will include an evening of music and giveaways Saturday, Aug. 23.
“We are really happy to have this first interaction with a lot of first-year students and put our best foot forward,” said ASuop President Katherine Moreno '25. “The activities we’ve been organizing are designed to help students connect with the Pacific community and build new friendships.”
Students can show their school spirit by cheering on the Tigers in some of their first games of the season, including women’s soccer vs. UC Davis Aug. 25. Students get in free with their Pacific ID. See the full calendar for other athletic events throughout the year.
