Summer Orientation 2026: Session 1 is officially underway! We are so excited to welcome our incoming students and their families for the first of our three summer orientation sessions this morning!  After checking in, our newest Falcons made their way to Weston Auditorium for an unforgettable start to their journey. They received a boisterous, high-energy welcome from Dean of Students Timothy St. John, followed by Assistant Director of Student Development Angelo M. Prevosto, who introduced our incredible team of Orientation Leaders! These OLs are ready to guide our new students through a day packed with info sessions, activities, and Falcon pride. Welcome to the flock! 

 Redefining the value of higher education. On this National Higher Education Day, we reflect on the vital role that accessible, high-quality public universities play in fostering economic growth and social mobility. At Fitchburg State University, our mission is to blend a rigorous liberal arts and sciences foundation with elite professional preparation. From our state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs to our unique interdisciplinary creative arts programs, we are constantly innovating to ensure our graduates enter the workforce ready to lead and solve complex challenges. Investing in higher education is an investment in our collective future. We are proud of our faculty, staff, and community partners who work tirelessly to ensure our students have the support, resources, and mentorship they need to succeed. To our current students chasing big dreams, our faculty unlocking potential, and our alumni leading the way in the real world—thank you for making this campus fly high. 

 Leading the conversation on global engagement in higher education. Fitchburg State University was proud to serve as the host site for this year’s Massachusetts Council for International Education (MCIE) Annual Retreat. Our Office of International Education welcomed colleagues and leadership from sister institutions across the state for a comprehensive itinerary focused on the evolving landscape of global education. The retreat featured expert guest speakers, strategic workshops, and presentations tailored to the unique regulatory, cultural, and academic needs of international student populations and study abroad programming. Collaborative professional development like this ensures that Massachusetts remains a premier global destination for higher education. Thank you to all the attendees and organizers who made this year's retreat a resounding success. 

The future looks bright in Green and Gold! 🦅✨ We loved hosting our newest flock of Future Falcons at our Admitted Student Future Falcon Day! From deep dives into academic programs to a high-energy reception at the Athletics and Recreation Center, the energy was unmatched. Between a warm welcome from President Donna Hodge and the beat of our incredible Drumline, the ARC was buzzing! Students and families got a true taste of life at Fitchburg State, connecting with departments and student groups across campus. Officially depositing Falcons joined Fitchburg State University President Hodge in ringing our campus bell to symbolize their commitment to Fitchburg State University. Learn more on your opportunities here at Fitchburg State here.    

Future Falcons joined us at an admitted student open house to see what their life at Fitchburg State could be. The day's program included campus tours, program-specific information sessions and a reception in the Athletics and Recreation Center. After President Donna Hodge welcomed everyone to the reception, with the help of our Drumline, Future Falcons, their families and guests, were able to mingle with a multitude of departments and student groups. The university offers a number of additional visit opportunities, from general tours to specific information sessions geared toward accepted students who are still making their academic decisions. Learn more on your opportunities here at Fitchburg State here.  

The transition from local high school student to Fitchburg State Falcon began last Tuesday.

Yesterday afternoon staff gathered in the Falcon Pub for our Admissions & Aid Department Postcard A-Thon for our accepted students. Together, we completed 275 hand-written notes to our accepted students, demonstrating what is truly means to be a member of this special community.  

Director of Admissions Tony Trodella welcomed students enrolled in Smith Vocational & Agricultural High School's Public Safety program to campus this morning to learn about our Criminal Justice (CJ) & Fitchburg State University Police Program. Criminal Justice Professor Michael S. McCutcheon led a Police Program/CJ info session and mock lesson with current student available to answer questions. Director of Admissions Tony Trodella then gave highlights of Fitchburg State University, including how to apply with a campus tour following. Last, but not least, was lunch at our Holmes Dining Commons before departure back to Northampton, MA. 

Director of International Education Nelly Wadsworth, and Assistant Director of Study Abroad Nicole Salerno welcomed this semester's cohort of International students at their orientation in the Hammond Main Lounge. Students took part in some ice-breaker exercises and a panel discussion  before a day full of information sessions.