Fairfield welcomed the largest class in its history and celebrated the grand opening of 42 Langguth Residence Hall.
Over 1,100 first-year and transfer students officially began their journey here at Fairfield on Sunday, September 2. Lucas the Stag and the Spirit Squad enthusiastically greeted incoming students and their families as they arrived on campus.
Over 350 volunteers including staff from across the University, students, new student leaders, resident advisors, FUSA, student athletes, and the Spirit Squad assisted the new students and their families. Students and families participated in a series of activities and events: meeting their First Year groups, attending the “Once a Stag Always a Stag” pep rally, and checking out QuadFest—a new event featuring a barbeque, treats from local vendor Saugatuck Sweets, music and live coverage by Fairfield's radio station WVOF, a photo booth, and a parent engagement tent. The day concluded with the President’s Send-Off Ceremony at the RecPlex.
“Move-In Day went beyond our expectations. Over 350 student leaders with professional staff volunteered to support new students moving in,” stated Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Programs Kamala Kiem. “Our new features to the day — QuadFest and the President’s Send-Off Ceremony — were well-attended and enjoyed by our new Stags and their families. We want to thank all the volunteers and employees for their dedication to making Move-In Day special!”
Overall, students and their families had a remarkable experience at Move-in Day. “Thanks so much for making this a wonderful family day,” stated one parent. “We definitely felt welcomed and are so happy to be a Stag family.”
The first two weeks at Fairfield are all part of Fall Welcome, full of activities to help new students get acclimated. From varsity games, a student activities fair, a community BBQ and bowling, to an interactive performance of Up! The Umbrella Project, movie night, bingo, and late night at Southside Café — there are entertaining activities for just about every student.
On Wednesday, September 5 the University community gathered for the grand opening of the new modern residence hall, 42 Langguth Hall, home of the Ignatian Leadership Residential College.
“42 Langguth Hall is the perfect space for our Ignatian Leadership Residential College students to discover how to lead meaningful, authentic and purposeful lives,” said Dean of Students and Associate Vice President Karen Donoghue '03. “The beautiful lounges, classroom and bedrooms provide abundant space for students to wrestle with the program's three essential questions: 'Who am I?', 'Whose am I?', and 'How am I called to lead/serve/live a creative and examined life?'"
Offering the comforts of home, the new facility features a spacious and light-filled atrium facing The Quad, expansive meeting spaces, student lounges, and suite-style living arrangements for over 200 sophomore students.
During the grand opening festivities, the University community was treated to a barbeque, live music, a blessing from Fr. Michael Tunney, S.J., and a greeting from Fairfield’s ninth President, Mark R. Nemec, PhD. Students also participated in a golden ticket scavenger challenge in the new building.
