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!