Pennsylvania Western University will begin the fall 2025 semester on Monday, Aug. 25, at California, Clarion, Edinboro, and online. The new academic year kicks off with Welcome Weekend, Aug. 22–24, offering first-year students the chance to move in at California, Clarion and Edinboro, meet classmates, explore campus resources, and take part in activities that celebrate the start of the semester.

“Welcome Weekend is all about connection — helping students find their place, their people, and their purpose,” said Dr. Jon Anderson, PennWest president. “When classes begin on Aug. 25, students will already have built friendships, met faculty, and discovered the many opportunities waiting for them.” 

Here are the Welcome Weekend highlights: 

 PennWest California 

• Friday, Aug. 22 – First-year move-in and The Big Connect event followed by comedian/magician Michael Misko. 

• Saturday, Aug. 23 – Returning student move-in, academic preparation sessions, and an evening California Block Party capped with Riverfest fireworks at 9 p.m. 

• Sunday, Aug. 24 – Club & Organization Fair, affinity group meet-ups, dinner with President Jon Anderson, and the Your PennWest Beginning welcome ceremony in Steele Hall. 

 

PennWest Clarion  

• Friday, Aug. 22 – First-year move-in, Information Fair, The Big Connect event and class photo, plus an evening of WINGO (bingo with wings). 

• Saturday, Aug. 23 – Returning student move-in, Academic Connections sessions, and interactive comedy with Every Game Show Ever, followed by karaoke and a nacho bar. 

• Sunday, Aug. 24 – Club & Organization Fair, affinity meet-ups, dinner with deans and student leaders, and the Your PennWest Beginning welcome ceremony in Hart Chapel. 

PennWest Edinboro 

• Friday, Aug. 22 – First-year move-in, campus tours, The Big Connect event at Sox Harrison Stadium, and an evening of bingo, karaoke, and prizes. 

• Saturday, Aug. 23 – Returning student move-in, Academic Connections sessions, and the Boro Bash with food trucks, music, and giveaways. 

• Sunday, Aug. 24 – Club Rush, classroom locator tours, affinity meet-ups, Dinner with Deans and student leaders, and the Your PennWest Beginning welcome ceremony in Cole Auditorium. 

For complete schedules and move-in details, visit the PennWest Welcome Weekend webpage.