More than 2,400 Wright State students move in to on-campus housing for start of Fall Semester

Wright State University welcomed more than 2,400 new and returning residential students to its Dayton Campus for the start of the 2026 Fall Semester — the highest number of on-campus residents in more than a decade. This year’s total continues a three-year increase in students choosing to live on campus.

A new move-in route for many students and their families began at Lot 8 behind the Nutter Center and eventually led them to their residence halls.

“This is the best day of the year,” said Wright State University President Sue Edwards, Ph.D. “I cannot wait for all of our students to be back on campus.”

The move-in experience was supported by more than 360 faculty, staff and student volunteers, who assisted with traffic, parking and carrying belongings to residence hall rooms.

Fall Semester launches with Weeks of Welcome

Wright State will help new and transfer students transition into college life with Weeks of Welcome, a six-week program designed to build community and support student success.

Highlights include:

• Kick-Off Celebration, Friday, Aug. 21, 10:30 a.m., Amphitheatre
  First-year students will hear from campus leaders and celebrate the start of their college journey.
• WOW Class Photo, Friday, Aug. 21, noon, North Lawn
  First-year students will gather in a W shape for a traditional class photo.
• Clap-In and Cookout with President Edwards, Friday, Aug. 21, 12:20–1:30 p.m., Wright Plaza
  Faculty and staff will clap in new students, followed by a free cookout hosted by President Sue Edwards.
• Cool Down with Student Success, Friday, Aug. 21, 2–4 p.m., Student Success Center
  First-year students can beat the heat with cool treats, entertainment, games and resources from campus partners.
• Fall Fest, Friday, Aug. 28, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., North Lawn, Mall, Wright Plaza
  Students can connect with campus organizations and enjoy music, food, games and fun.

More information about Weeks of Welcome activities is available at wright.edu/WOW and on Engage.