Summer Stampede

First Year Guides welcome new students to campus each year at Stampede.

Welcome to Stampede: New Student Orientation & Welcome Weekend
Thursday, August 14 – Saturday, August 16

Stampede is Harding’s official orientation weekend designed to help new
students settle into college life, connect with peers, and become familiar
with all the campus has to offer. It all begins with registration in the Benson
Auditorium lobby from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14,
followed by the official kickoff at 1:00 p.m.

Throughout the weekend, students will meet fellow classmates, walk
through their class schedules, find chapel seats, set up their laundry app,
and hear from important offices and programs that support student
success. There will also be helpful info on campus traditions and
opportunities like social clubs. Each day is thoughtfully balanced with time
to explore, rest, or connect casually with others, so students are
encouraged to attend each session to get the most from their experience.

Evenings are packed with fun, including inflatables, a silent disco, and a
longtime Harding favorite—the Saturday night hypnotist.

Please note: Stampede is a student-only experience. We ask that parents
say their goodbyes prior to the 1:00 p.m. kickoff on Thursday. From
that point on, the focus shifts to helping students transition into life at
Harding as they begin building confidence, friendships, and independence.

Stampede concludes Saturday night, giving students all day Sunday to
relax, prepare, and get ready for their first day of classes on Monday.

We can’t wait to welcome you to campus and help you launch your Harding
journey with confidence and excitement!

Frequently Asked Questions

Stampede is an orientation program that is both required and fun (yes, both words can be used in the same sentence). It is designed to be an engaging, entertaining and exciting experience. You will move into your official residence hall, meet or reconnect with other incoming students, get free stuff and start your Harding experience on a good note. Approximately 75 volunteer students will be there to answer all of your questions and help you get oriented to life on campus.

No. Parents are welcome to stay as long as they like, but students will be busy with Stampede activities. We suggest that parents help their students move in, spend a few more moments together and then let them begin their Harding experience.

All students are invited to participate in our official Move-In Day. If you are involved in a sport or an officially recognized University organization,  you will need to check with the sponsor of that organization or sport for your move-in date.

There is free time built into the Stampede schedule including each afternoon and all of Sunday. We recommend using this time to make any last minute Walmart trips to finish organizing your room and to take your first college nap.

All meals are provided during Stampede. Simply show your Stampede wristband when you enter the dining hall, and you will be all set. Please note that entrance to the dining hall without a wristband will not be allowed. If you lose it, you may have it replaced for a small fee. Your meal plan (DCB and dining hall swipes) will be activated on Sunday to be used for Sunday dinner. 

Stampede is required of all incoming freshmen and transfer students. However, a few exceptions to this include those involved in some of Harding's collegiate sports teams and official musical groups.We are working with your directors and coaches to ensure you do not miss important information as you begin your college experience.

Contact Information


Stampede