KOKOMO, Ind. — The future’s so bright, they have to wear shades.
Indiana University Kokomo students return for the fall semester Monday, August 21 — the same day a partial eclipse will be visible on campus. Students can grab a pair of eclipse glasses on campus, and watch it on live stream in Kresge Auditorium.
A new computer science degree, a sports nutrition program, and a campus health and wellness center are among the new offerings awaiting students for the 2017-2018 school year.
Audra Dowling, dean of students, welcomes students back to campus, and encourages them to be open to being challenged in their personal, professional, and academic growth this school year.
“There is so much great energy from faculty, staff, and student leaders,” Dowling says. “I am really excited for students to be a part of the mix and make their mark as they embark on a new year and a fresh start.”
The Student Government Association, Student Union Board, and Student Athletic and Wellness Board sponsors daily activities and treats during Welcome Week, to celebrate the new semester.
Students don’t have to go to their first classes Monday with empty stomachs, but can start the semester with a hearty helping of biscuits and gravy, after 9 a.m. in Alumni Hall.
Starting at 10 a.m. Monday, commemorate the first day of classes by having a free caricature drawn in Alumni Hall, or make the day memorable by taking a flying trapeze lesson in the Quad.
Also Monday, Kresge Auditorium will be open from noon to 4 p.m., showing live stream of the historic eclipse from the campus telescope, which is equipped with a solar filter. Patrick Motl, associate professor of physics, will discuss the eclipse from 1:30 to 2 p.m. in Havens Auditorium.
Tuesday, there’s more free food, with soft pretzels in Alumni Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or while supplies last. Free henna tattoos also will be available during that time.
Be ready to duck Wednesday, as Chris Cakes and his flying pancakes return to campus from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Alumni Hall.
Save a life Thursday, by donating during the Red Cross blood drive, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in KC 130. After donating and having a snack, return to childhood for a few hours, jumping in a bounce house in the Quad, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Quad. Frozen treats also will be available.
Also Thursday, celebrate a successful first week back at the annual Campus BBQ, and bring your inner rock star for live band karaoke. Festivities are scheduled from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the Quad.
Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.