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Stampede
Learn about student organizations, service projects, social clubs and more.
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Stampede
The Hypnotist is an event you won't want to miss.
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Stampede
Your first day at Harding doesn't have to start with an 8 a.m. class.
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Stampede
Take care of registration tasks and meet new classmates, teachers and friends.
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Stampede
Check the schedule regularly for updated activities and events.
Stampede begins on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023 with Move-In Day.


Stampede Co-Directors Hank Noblin & Britney Njeri
Stampede is the second tier of the first-year orientation process for incoming freshman and transfer students following Bison Bound. This weekend is jam packed with fun activities and entertainment.
We know how important it is to start your college career on a high note. That's why we are so fired up! Stampede will help you get off to a great start and make a lasting impression on your life at Harding. See below for the weekend schedule and be sure to follow us on Instagram: @hu_fye
STAMPEDE 2022 RECAP
Stampede will help you get off to a great start and make a lasting impression on your life at Harding.
Stampede Schedule 2023
Thursday, August 17th
8:30 AM — Move-In Day Begins!
Note: Unloading assistance is available until 4 p.m.
4:30 PM — Welcome Session, Benson Auditorium
Parents and students join us as President Williams welcomes you to the Harding family.
5:30 PM — Family Picnic, Front Lawn
5:30 PM - 9:00 pm — DIY Move In — Go directly to your residence hall to check-in.
Friday, August 18th
7:30 AM — Breakfast, Cafeteria
8:00-9:00 AM — Registration, Benson Lobby
9:00 AM — Opening Assembly, Benson Auditorium
9:45 AM — Energy Group Intros, Benson Auditorium
10:00 AM — Energy Group Session 1, Various Locations
12:00 PM — Lunch / Even Num EGs, Cafeteria
12:30 PM — Lunch / Odd Num EGs, Cafeteria
2:00 PM — Energy Group Rotations
5:00 PM — Energy Group Session 2, Various Locations
5:30 PM — Theme Dinner, Front Lawn
7:00 PM — Worship, Benson Auditorium
8:30 PM — HU Spectacular, Benson AuditoriumSaturday, August 19th
7:30 AM — Breakfast, Cafeteria
9:00 AM — Morning Assembly & Worship, Benson Auditorium
10:00 AM — Energy Group Session 3, Various Locations
10:45 AM — Energy Group Olympics, Front Lawn
12:00 PM — Lunch / Even Num EGs, Cafeteria
12:30 PM — Lunch / Odd Num EGs, Cafeteria
2:00 PM — Energy Group Session 4, Various Locations
4:00 PM — Free Time
5:30 PM — Theme Dinner
7:00 PM — Worship, Benson Auditorium
8:30 PM — Hypnotist Dale K, Benson AuditoriumSunday, August 20th
7:30 AM — Breakfast, Cafeteria
9:15 AM — Worship, Benson Auditorium
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Stampede?
Stampede is both a required and fun orientation program (yes, both words can be used in the same sentence). This orientation program is designed to be an engaging, entertaining, and exciting experience. You will move into your official dorm, meet/reconnect with other incoming students, get free stuff and start your Harding experience on a good note. Approximately 200 volunteer students will be there to answer all of your questions and help you get oriented to life on campus.
Is there a parent schedule for Stampede
There is no parent schedule for Stampede. Parents are welcome to stay as long as they would like, but students will be busy with Stampede activities. Our suggestion is for parents to help their students move-in, spend a few more moments together and then let them start their Harding experience.
When can I move into my dorm?
All students are invited to participate in our official Move In Day on Thursday, August 17. If you are involved in a sport or an officially recognized university organization then you will need to check with the sponsor of that organization or sport for your move-in date.
Will I have free time to relax or finish setting up my dorm room before school starts?
There is free time built into the Stampede schedule, including all of Sunday afternoon. We recommend using this time to make any last minute Walmart trips to finish organizing your room and to take your first college nap.
What about meals?
All meals are provided during Stampede. Simply show your Stampede name tag when you enter the cafeteria and you will be all set. Please note that entrance to the cafeteria without a name tag will not be allowed. If you lose your nametag you may have it replaced for a small fee. Your meal plan (DCB and Cafeteria Swipes) will be activated on the first day of classes — Monday, August 21st.
Who attends Stampede?
Stampede is required of all incoming freshman and transfer students. However, a few exceptions to this include those students involved in some of Harding's collegiate sports teams and official musical groups.
Current Students
Co-Directors
Stampede/Bison Bound Co-Director
Interested in applying to be a Co-Director? Download the Co-Director Application pdf and return it to Student Center 236.
Energy Group Leaders
The Energy Group Leader application is now closed. If you are interested in serving as an Energy Group Leader, be on the lookout for applications in March or April. Applications will be available on our Instagram @HU_FYE or on here.
Contact Us
Stampede is overseen by the office of the First Year Experience
501-279-4193
Harding Information: 501-279-4000
Admissions Office: 1-800-477-4407