2024 PACK Welcome Week: Full Schedule

Before you dive into your first term of classes, we have a jam-packed week of exciting activities to help you become acclimated to campus life. From speakers, to socials, to signing your name on the sidewalk, join your fellow new wolves to begin making your mark at WOU!

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7:30am PDT

Daily Operational Hours

Wednesday September 25, 2024 7:30am - 9:00pm PDT

Various Locations - See Description

Residential Service Center (North Side of Valsetz)

8am-10pm: If you need to pick up mail or packages, get a temporary key for lockouts during the day, need access to a computer lab, or have general questions about housing and residence life, this is the place to go!

Werner University Center

8am-8pm: WOU ID Cards (2nd Floor, Information Desk). Identification cards will be made for students who have not yet received their cards. The first card is free for incoming students. Replacements will be issued for $15.
9am-5pm: WOU Wolfstore Open (2nd Floor). Pick up any WOU gear you need for the big week!
Throughout the Day: PACK Welcome Week Information Booths (2nd Floor, Information Desk). Questions about PACK Welcome Week? This is the place where you can have all of your questions answered. You can also sign up for the variety show and get more information about joining WOU Crew 2025!

Health & Wellness Center

5pm-9pm: Join us at Campus Recreation, located in the HWC, and see what amazing things you already have access to! Bring your WOU Student ID and come try something fun. Our staff will be available to answer any questions you may have, from fitness to intramural and club sports. We've got you covered with the climbing wall open 6:30-8:30 pm and the aquatics center open 6:00-8:00 pm.

Wednesday September 25, 2024 7:30am - 9:00pm PDT
Various Locations - See Description

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: A Little Tai Chi for You and Me

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Maple Hall

Yang Style Tai Chi is a movement meditation practice that involves a series of slow, gentle, ongoing movements that when combined with breath support create a peaceful, meditative and mindful state. We will practice a short sequence of this ancient discipline as an approach to self-care and balance. No matter what your major will be at WOU, Tai Chi can be for you. It is a great way to get exercise and to clear and focus the mind.

This session is also available at another time(s) this week.

Speakers

Tim Cowart

Department Head & Assistant Professor, Dance

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Maple Hall

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: AUMP: How can I get master's in one year after I finish my degree?

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Hamersly Library, Room 107

Learn more about the Accelerated Undergraduate to Master's Pathway programs at WOU. You can get a master's in one year post degree completion.

Speakers

Amber Deets

Director of Graduate Student Success & Recruitment, Graduate Programs

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Hamersly Library, Room 107

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Forget What You've Seen on Netflix! This is Real Forensics in Criminal Justice

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Bellamy Hall, Room 329 (Forensic Anthropology lab)

We've all seen how it plays out on tv. The quirky investigator enters the dark room gripping the flashlight only to discover what appears to be a skull partially embedded in soil. Is it really bone? Is it human? Is that hole an effect of projectile trauma? What can we say about the decedent from their skeletal remains and what techniques can we use to help catch the perpetrator? We'll cover all this and more in this hands-on session in forensic anthropology and investigation. Caution: you may never be able to watch forensics on television in the same way again.

Speakers

Misty Weitzel

Jenna Rojas

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Bellamy Hall, Room 329 (Forensic Anthropology lab)

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Loteria

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 141

Learn about Western Oregon University Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Status while having fun playing Loteria. We will be playing Loteria with an updated deck that will have some great information on Western's Emerging HSI Status. There will be prizes awarded out to winners.

Speakers

Cristian Mendez Garcia

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 141

Educational Session, Diversity & Inclusion

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Learn About the ED Major

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Santiam Room

Embark on a journey to uncover the transformative realm of Education (ED) at our upcoming session. Dive into the heart of this dynamic major, where passion meets purpose and learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. Join us to explore the diverse pathways and boundless opportunities that await within the ED program. Whether you're intrigued by teaching, educational leadership, or shaping the future of learning, let us inspire your educational journey. Don't miss out on this chance to learn about the ED major and unlock the door to endless possibilities.

Speakers

Brenda Plata-Hurtado

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Santiam Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Navigating the College Landscape: Using Professional Etiquette to Get What You Want

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Columbia Room

In this session, you will learn the do's and don't's of communication with faculty and staff. What should you say in an email to a professor? What can you ask for, and what should you avoid? How can you get help when you're confused? What should you do if you're late or absent? And how do you navigate hybrid and online etiquette?

Speakers

Jay Schwartz

Assistant Professor, Psychological Sciences

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: On Track Information Session

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Join us to learn more about the On Track Program. This program is designed to provide historically underrepresented students with academic and personal support that will assist in ensuring academic success, as well as provide opportunities for social development. (NOTE: This session is not for students already accepted into this program. For students already accepted, please attend the On Track Orientation on Thursday)

Speakers

Blanca Miranda Aguilar

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Playing Intramural and Club Sports at WOU

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Hamersly Library, Room 108

Intramural and Club Sports are a great way to meet meet new people, be active and scratch that competitive itch!
Come to this session to learn the difference between Intramural and Club Sports and for information on how to join each.

Speakers

Andy Main

Associate Director, Campus Recreation

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Hamersly Library, Room 108

Educational Session, Student Life

10:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 7: Sexual Health Services at the Student Health and Counseling Center

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 139

This presentation will provide the audience with an overview of the sexual health services offered at the Student Health and Counseling Center including but not limited to birth control, STI screening/treatment, annual exams, etc. In addition, we will be reviewing how to schedule an appointment, any fees, etc.

Speakers

Chris Silva

Crystal Ross

Wednesday September 25, 2024 10:00am - 10:50am PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 139

Educational Session, Student Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: Explore the world by teaching English abroad

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Hamersly Library, Room 107

It's a big world after all... but how can you live and travel abroad with no income? Answer: by teaching English. There are more English as a second language users in the world than native speakers of English, and there is still a high demand for English teachers in countries where English is not a language used by most people at home. However, unlike in the past when any native speaker of English was assumed to be capable of teaching the language to students, today the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become professionalized and schools want to hire trained English teachers. WOU's English Studies Department offers a 26-credit TEFL Certificate that can be completed as a Minor in Linguistics and will complement any number of Majors from Business to Education to International or Interdisciplinary Studies or English Studies. Join us to learn about teaching abroad and answer any questions you have. Whether you make teaching your career or use your skills to live abroad for a year or two after graduating but before starting a career in the US, employers value experience abroad, and your life will never be the same.

Speakers

Rob Troyer

Professor, English Studies

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Hamersly Library, Room 107

Educational Session, Academic Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: Get a Loaf of This: Building a Speech Sandwich

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 139

For many people, the idea of giving a speech or presentation in front of a group of strangers or even our peers is often anxiety-inducing - but it doesn't have to be. In fact, the process of preparing a speech can be as simple as making a sandwich! In this mini-class, we will discuss the basics of speech organization. No public speaking experience is necessary and all majors are welcome. Learn some tips and tricks about how to build confidence and craft a speech that is easy to follow and hard to forget!

Speakers

Kennedy Schade

Academic Success Advisor, Student Success & Advising

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 139

Educational Session, Academic Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: Go go GET INVOLVED!

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Join Student Engagement to find the best involvement opportunity for you! In this session, we will cover everything from clubs and organizations to leadership opportunities on campus and everything in between. This session is perfect if you are unsure of how to get involved here at WOU! Come cultivate a sense of belonging with us!

Speakers

Katelin Granger and Student Engagement

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Educational Session, Student Life

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: Green Flags and Fries

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Santiam Room

This will be an interactive session to help students understand green and red flags in relationships as they begin to date in college! We'll also discuss the importance of consent with sexual activity, and fries will be provided*
*Limited number of fries will be available.

Speakers

Kailey Knospe

Kristen Perry

Director & Confidential Advocate, Abby's House

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Santiam Room

Educational Session, Student Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: How to Graduate! Understanding Degree Requirements

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Hamersly Library, Room 108

How do you know what the requirements are for getting a degree, and how do you keep track of your progress? This session presents an overview of using Degree Tracks, WOU's online progress-tracking tool.

Speakers

Mark Decker

Graduation Coordinator, Office of the Registrar

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Hamersly Library, Room 108

Educational Session, Academic Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: How to Succeed in Math and Science

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Math and science classes can be challenging. Faculty members from these departments invite you to learn about techniques that help students succeed. Current WOU students will share their experiences and thoughts on student success, as well as tips on how to connect with other students through clubs and organizations such as FEM in STEM, the Natural Science Club, the Pre-Med Club, the Math Club, and Byte Club. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the strategies and skills that will help them succeed at WOU. We welcome students who plan to major in math and sciences, as well as students who plan to major in other disciplines but want to do well in their General Education required courses.

Speakers

Science and Mathematics Faculty and Students

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: Money Management

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Werner University Center, Calapooia Room

How do you manage to pay for school, room and board, eat out, and more while in college? Curious about how to manage your funds in college and beyond? Good personal financial management will help you learn to control your money to achieve your financial and life goals. Join me in this interactive lecture, where we will explore the building blocks of financial success.

Speakers

Bojan Ilievski

Associate Professor and Division Chair, Business & Economics

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Werner University Center, Calapooia Room

Educational Session, Financial Information

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: The Tea About TikTok

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 141

Learn about the impacts of social media use on mental health and healthy ways to manage your screen time in college.

Speakers

Chelsea O'Neill

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 141

Educational Session, Student Resources

11:00am PDT

Ed Session Block 8: WOU Rugby Part 2: The Basics for Spectators & Future Players

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT

Meet at The Grove (will head over to the Turf Field)

An introduction to the basic playing format and structure of rugby and how the game works. In this session you’ll have a chance to learn some of the rules of the game so that when you attend matches this fall you’ll at least know a little more than your friends! You’ll have a chance to throw a ball around, learn to pass and play some fun and simple games.

Speakers

Tony Benedetti White

Wednesday September 25, 2024 11:00am - 11:50am PDT
Meet at The Grove (will head over to the Turf Field)

Educational Session, Student Life

1:00pm PDT

Diversity Speaker - Jennifer Borrero

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT

New P.E., Gym

More info coming soon!

Wednesday September 25, 2024 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
New P.E., Gym

Mandatory Event (All New WOU Students)

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Career and Major Exploration

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 141

This is an interactive workshop designed to connect your interests and personality to majors and careers.

Speakers

Adry Clark

Director, Center for Professional Pathways

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 141

Educational Session, Student Resources

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Global Migration and the Refugee Crisis

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Werner University Center, Santiam Room

A discussion of the complex forces behind international migration and the enormous impact it is having on our globalized world. This includes such recent events as the Ukrainian refugee crisis, violence against immigrants in South Africa, support for right-wing political parties in Germany, Australia's use of offshore detention centers, and the Trump administration's efforts to curb immigration.

Speakers

Eliot Dickinson

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Werner University Center, Santiam Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Is Student Media for you?

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Meet in front of Heritage Hall (will walk over to Terry House/Media Center)

Come learn about how the newspaper, radio show, podcast studio, and art magazine happen, and why they need you! Student-run, student-made, and student-led, Student Media at WOU is your chance to publish, produce, create, and find an audience for your passions. Whether you want to investigate stories, write poetry, edit articles, record podcasts, or do a music hour, there’s something for every skill level and interest.

Speakers

Linden Loren

Coordinator, Advising & Virtual Engagement, Student Engagement

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Meet in front of Heritage Hall (will walk over to Terry House/Media Center)

Educational Session, Student Life

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Make It Make Cents

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Hamersly Library, Room 107

So someone told you college was free but then you got a scary email stating you have a bill. What do you do now? Visit our session to be proactive in your higher education financial health.

Speakers

Ashley Schaumburg

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Hamersly Library, Room 107

Educational Session, Financial Information

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Navigating Counseling: A Guide to Your First Appointment

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Werner University Center, Calapooia Room

Join us for an informative panel discussion led by the counselors from the Student Health and Counseling Center. During this session, we will provide guidance to help you understand what to expect during your first counseling appointment. Our counselors will cover a range of topics, including the counseling process, confidentiality, types of services offered, and how to prepare for your appointment.

Speakers

SHCC Counselors

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Werner University Center, Calapooia Room

Educational Session, Student Resources

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Quick Connections: Speed Friending Mixer.

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Come have fun, meet some new people and learn a few fun facts about Western Oregon!

Speakers

The Office of Student Conduct

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Educational Session, Student Resources

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Swing of Things: A Introduction to Swing Dance

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Maple Hall

Come join us for the swing dance lesson and meet the Swing Dance Club. We will teach you the beginner steps for single-time swing and provide a few intro patterns to get everyone dancing! No experience is required, so whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, this session is perfect for you. So, come meet new people, enjoy great music, and discover the joy of swing dancing in a fun and welcoming environment. See you on the dance floor!

Speakers

Katrina Renault

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Maple Hall

Educational Session, Student Life

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: Why the heck do I have to take all these random classes??? Understand General Education @ WOU

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Picture this: you just finished high school, and now you're at college. You're excited to explore your major and try new things. Then you meet with an advisor...and they tell you that you have a ton of required classes like math, English, science, and more...what gives? Is this just high school 2.0?

While it might seem like "General Education" is just a buzzword, WOU's General Education Program will really help you in your life at WOU and your career afterwards. Come learn about why General Education exists, and how YOU can make the most of your Gen Ed experience.

Speakers

Leanne Merrill

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Werner University Center, Willamette Room

Educational Session, Academic Resources

3:00pm PDT

Ed Session Block 9: WOLF Ride: WOU's Safe Ride Program

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT

Ackerman Hall, Room 139

Learn more about WOU's on-campus safe ride program! Lovingly nicknamed "WOU-ber" by many students, WOLF Ride provides quick, free, and accessible rides for students throughout the Monmouth-Independence area.

Speakers

Cameron Mortensen

Wednesday September 25, 2024 3:00pm - Thursday September 25, 2025 3:50pm PDT
Ackerman Hall, Room 139

Educational Session, Student Resources

4:30pm PDT

Guess Who's Straight

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT

Werner University Center, Columbia Room

Come and ask a panel of WOU students questions about anything EXCEPT their sexuality and see if you can pick out who is straight! The Stonewall Center Coordinator will facilitate a discussion on stereotypes and sexuality.

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
Werner University Center, Columbia Room

4:30pm PDT

Variety Show Auditions

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT

Werner University Center, Pacific Room

Have a talent? Like to perform? We're looking for all acts-- single or group! Sign up for your audition in the WUC or ask a WOU Crew member how to get signed up. The Variety Show itself will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28th at 7:00PM in the Pacific Room of the WUC. We can provide a piano, DI boxes, microphones, and all standard sound equipment. We do not have instrument amps, or a drum kit, so please provide your own equipment if your act requires anything additional. It's your time to shine! Feel free to email woucrew@wou.edu or ask your WOU Crew member if you have any questions.

Wednesday September 25, 2024 4:30pm - 6:00pm PDT
Werner University Center, Pacific Room

5:00pm PDT

MSU Event

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

The Grove

Do you like to learn about culture and celebrate diversity? Come meet the Multicultural Student Union, one of the most active and influential student organizations at WOU that promotes cultural awareness on campus and in the surrounding community. Don't miss out on this event to hangout with friends and enjoy delicious popsicles

Wednesday September 25, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
The Grove

8:00pm PDT

Game Night

Wednesday September 25, 2024 8:00pm - 11:00pm PDT

Werner University Center

Let the games begin… Join the fun all night long in the WUC! With a ton of fun game rooms all happening at once, we will surely have something that will make you want to go all in. There will also be a photo booth, caricature, tons of prizes, and all the snacks you could want!

Wednesday September 25, 2024 8:00pm - 11:00pm PDT
Werner University Center

Highlighted Event

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