GatorFest! kicks off new academic year with dozens of campus events

This year’s line-up includes a pinning ceremony and class photo, a comedy night, a dance and much more

Every year, San Francisco State University celebrates the start of a new academic year with GatorFest!, a weeks-long series of student-oriented events. This year’s GatorFest! kicks off with a welcome reception from 4 to 6 p.m. at Don Nasser Family Plaza Friday, Aug. 11. Dozens of events — ceremonies, performances, games and more — will follow. All students are welcome! It’s an opportunity to start strong, make new connections, join clubs and organizations, learn more about University resources and services, explore San Francisco and celebrate being a Gator.

“As SF State prepares for fall semester, our focus is to provide opportunities for students to develop a strong connection to each other and their home away from home,” said Miguel Hernández, associate vice president & dean of students of the Division of Student Life. “Events planned for this year’s GatorFest are intentionally designed to create memories, explore interests and allow friends to connect. We want to make sure everyone knows this is where they belong.”

“GatorFest! is how we make sure students start the year feeling excited, connected and supported,” added Evan Jaynes, San Francisco State’s First Year Experience – manager of student transitions. “There are amazing campus life opportunities year-round at SF State, but GatorFest! is always a very exciting time for our students.”

The schedule for GatorFest!’s Week of Welcome (WOW) is below. For more event details and the full GatorFest! schedule — which stretches all the way to a Haunted House at the Student Life Events Center Oct. 30 – 31 — go to the New Student & Family Programs website.