Since President Schapiro’s arrival, Northwestern has created new traditions and indelible memories that celebrate what it means to be a Wildcat and show your Purple Pride in the arts, on the playing fields and even under the Weber Arch.
Since 2009, Wildcat Welcome activities have expanded to include new traditions including March Through the Arch and the Wildcat Welcome Dash. Members of the incoming class of students start each new academic year with a celebratory march through Weber Arch and onto campus as family, friends and Northwestern community members line the path to Deering Meadow. Later, they dash across the gridiron at Ryan Field during the first home football game of the academic year.
Northwestern student-athletes are well-known for their achievements in all aspects of their college careers. Over the past decade, they’ve enjoyed great success in competition, winning titles in the Big Ten conference and on the NCAA level. They excel in the classroom and graduate at record rates. And they are valued members of the community, lending a hand in neighborhoods across Evanston and Chicago.
This annual event is an opportunity for President Schapiro and senior leaders to discuss with students, faculty and staff key issues facing the University. The forums, co-sponsored by the Northwestern University Staff Advisory Council, the Faculty Senate and the Office of the President, are webcast live. Explore past Conversations
In what was the alumni party of the century, the School of Communication in 2018 staged its greatest performance yet —a star-studded show featuring Northwestern’s most recognizable alumni in the entertainment industry. “A Starry Night” brought the diverse community back to campus for a weekend celebration that included reunions, master classes, workshops, exhibits, demonstrations and more.
Each fall, student group A&O hosts a concert at Welsh-Ryan Arena. Past concerts have featured performers including John Legend, Childish Gambino, Snoop Dogg and Carly Rae Jepson.
Each year, President Schapiro invites graduating seniors to nominate high school teachers who have had a transforming impact on their lives. This program, sponsored by the Office of the President with the cooperation of the School of Education and Social Policy, and supported by the Associated Student Government, recognizes the transforming power of high school teachers in our lives and our communities. Teachers are recognized during the annual Commencement ceremony.
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