
UW students mingle in the Wyoming Union during last year’s Winter Welcome. The event is designed to help first-time and transfer students starting in the spring semester and includes sessions on classroom success, campus guided tours and the chance to meet faculty, staff and Cowboy Coaches. (UW Photo)
The University of Wyoming is hosting a Winter Welcome Thursday, Jan. 15, for new students transitioning into campus life.
Introduced in 2025 and organized by the Student Success and Graduation Hub, the free, one-day program is designed to help first-time and transfer students starting at UW in the spring semester. Registration is required; to register, go here.
“We can’t wait to meet these new students and welcome them to Laramie and the University
of Wyoming,” says Abby Markley, dean of Student Success and Graduation. “Winter in
Wyoming presents a challenge for any new resident. This program provides an opportunity
for students to connect with one another and with campus resources in a fun, inviting
space.”
Winter Welcome introduces students to academic expectations, campus resources and
community connections. Participants will attend sessions on classroom success; explore
campus through guided tours; and meet faculty, staff and Cowboy Coaches ready to support
their journey.
The day begins with check-in and breakfast at 9 a.m. in the Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center lobby, followed by academic workshops, campus tours and community-building activities. The program wraps up around 5 p.m. Students and parents can find FAQs and parking information here.

UW students huddle around a computer during the first Winter Welcome last year. This year’s event will begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, in the Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center lobby. (UW Photo)
Building upon the successful introduction of Winter Welcome in 2025, this year, students
returning to UW for spring semester are encouraged to participate in Winter Welcome Back.
“We had great feedback from students who were a part of our first Winter Welcome,
and we are excited to offer extra programming open to all returning students,” Markley
says.
The goal of Winter Welcome Back is to celebrate the return of students to campus at
the start of the spring semester. Students can participate in a week of events that
includes community building, academic preparation and lighthearted fun. Scheduled
events and activities can be found here.
Students or parents who have questions about Winter Welcome or Winter Welcome Back can reach out to the Student Success and Graduation Hub at ssgraduation@uwyo.edu or call (307) 766-5765.

