Institutional Research and Planning (IRP) held another roundtable of a their journal club, Research Roundtables explore literature on higher education practices and enhancing data and literature literacy. The group discusses selected research papers and share insights relevant to our campus community. At this his meeting, an article about harvesting data through undergraduate applicant essays was discussed.

As today's Winter Orientation '25 wrapped up, and information sessions were over, our newest Falcons were address by Dean of Students Tim St. John. Dean St. John made sure all questions were answered, before their departure. In addition to that - and some swag - university offices and student groups were on hand to assist in answers. 

Amidst a day full of activities and information sessions, students - transfers and freshmen -  met with the Deans in their selected majors to make sure their schedules are ready before classes begin on January 16th.

Winter Orientation was held in the Hammond Center today to welcome our newest Falcons to campus. After registration, and meeting our fantastic Orientation Leaders, the program began with welcome remarks from Director of Student Development Michael Kennedy, and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Patricia Marshall in the Ellis White Lecture Hall. After ice breaker sessions, students and their families heard presentations from various student services departments including Commuter Affairs, Housing and Residential Services, Wellness & Counseling Services, Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center,  Career Services and Advising (CSA), Student Accounts, University Police, and Community Health Connections, Welcome to the flock!

While students are on break, Fitchburg State University Police Department (FSUPD) Chief Michael Cloutier and his staff continue to keep the university campus and surrounding areas safe. With over 200 strategically placed cameras, in addition to regular patrols, FSUPD keeps watch with their Mission Statement, which they see as they leave their locker rooms and enter the station. 

Part of the college experience is getting involved. We encourage our students to take advantage of the opportunities offered outside the classroom, whether you join a club, attend events, volunteer, or seek employment.

There are currently about 75+ active clubs and organizations on campus. They range from large, general organizations like the Student Government Association (SGA) and Fitchburg Activities Board (FAB), to smaller, more niche organizations like Quidditch club or Exercise and Sports Science club. Starting a new club is also always an option.

As we turn the page on finals, our  Winter Commencement, and all the trappings that come with the end of the fall semester 2024, we offer a look back. 

Fitchburg State University recently held the winter ceremony of its 128th commencement exercises, conferring hundreds of graduate and undergraduate degrees. (Download the list of graduates here.)

It was the first ceremony for Dr. Donna Hodge, who joined the Fitchburg State campus this summer as its 12th president.

Yesterday afternoon, our Office of International Education honored students who've come to Fitchburg State University from abroad, as well as Fitchburg State University students who took advantage of our Study Abroad Program. Students were honored for, and shared their life changing experiences and received medals to wear during tomorrow's  Winter Commencement ceremony. Faculty, staff, and host families were also acknowledged for their contributions.

Yesterday, volunteers consisting of faculty, students and staff gathered in the Recreation center in preparation for this afternoon's Commencement Ceremony. After an event run down by Nate Corbett of Capital Planning and Maintenance, and an address from President Donna Hodge, groups of volunteers gathered to learn their assignments and perform a run through. Fitchburg Access Television (FATV) Executive Director Nathan Glenny was also on hand setting up to live stream the event, which can be viewed here. Learn more about our Winter Commencement here.