August 26, 2024 - Welcome to Fall 2024, Chico State! Here's What's Ahead this Semester
Dear employees, welcome to the start of the fall semester. I’m so excited for all that’s to come. We sent this welcome message to students today. I hope your week is off to a great start).
Dear Students,
Welcome to the fall 2024 semester! Whether you are closing in on your diploma or it is your first week on campus, we are so glad that each of you has decided to spend this important time in your life here in Chico.
A lot has happened since the end of last semester—heatwaves, political upheaval, and of course, the Park Fire, which has greatly affected our community. As we navigate through these challenges, I believe I can speak for everyone when I say we are so happy you are back. The people who work at Chico State care deeply about your success. We’re here for you, both in and out of the classroom, so if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Here are some things to be aware of as the semester gets going:
What’s New This Fall
- Cultural Centers: We’re excited to introduce three new affinity centers to support student success. On the first floor of Meriam Library, you’ll find the Black Resource Center and El Centro (Latinx) Resource Center. The Asian Pacific Islander and Desi American Resource Center will open later this fall. These spaces offer a wide range of services, including academic support, tutoring, advising, and emotional well-being support.
- New Behavioral and Social Sciences Building: Construction on the new BSS Building on the east side of campus is just about finished and the building is expected to open later this semester. It will be worth the wait! Even if you don’t have classes there, you should definitely make time to check it out. The natural light is amazing, the indoor arboretum offers a calming place to sit, and the coffee shop will be run by local favorite Lovebird Coffee. I have no doubt this new building will become a hot spot to study and hang out for our students. Be on the lookout for an invitation to the grand opening later this semester.
- New Chico State App: We’re excited to announce the launch of Chico State’s first truly interactive mobile app, designed to enhance your experience on campus. You can download it today in the App Store and Google Play. The app provides instant access to course schedules, campus maps, event calendars, and more.
- Build Bikes with President Perez: Join me in giving back to our community through the Chico State Builds Community program. Led by the Adventure Outings Bike Cart team, we’ll assemble bicycles to be donated to local youth. It’s a great opportunity to meet your peers and make a difference. I hope you’ll sign up for one of our three sessions!
- New Dining Options on Campus: The Associated Students is bringing a variety of new dining options to campus. This semester, the BMU Marketplace is buzzing with these new spots:
- Monkey Bowls: Serving up vegan, gluten-free açaí bowls.
- Mi Taquito Grill: The longtime popular campus food truck is now a permanent fixture.
- Chico State Smokehouse Deli: Hot and cold sandwiches made with meats from the University Farm Meats Lab.
Plus, don’t miss the variety of food trucks around campus accepting meal swipes, and remember, the Éstom Jámani dining hall is open to all students living on and off campus. It's all-you-can-eat dining for just $10 offering perhaps the best deal in town for hungry students!
Get Involved
College is a much more rewarding experience when you get involved in the campus community and meet new people. I strongly urge you to walk through Clubtacular taking place on Wednesday, September 4, from 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Over 100 student clubs will be on Trinity Lawn, Glenn Lawn, and the Gauntlet and they’re all eager to share what they have to offer.
In addition, we’re doing something new this year—on Friday, September 13, at 5 p.m., Student Affairs is hosting a concert on Kendall Lawn. Triple Tree, a local reggae band, will be performing, food trucks will be available, and our friends from Riley’s (yes, that Riley’s) will serve drinks for those 21 and over. All students are welcome. It’s going to be a fantastic way to kick off the weekend!
We hope this is the first of many events that bring students and the community to campus for entertainment events.
Stay Informed
We know emails aren’t students’ favorite, but the University will send important info to your Chico State email on a regular basis. While we’ll also try to keep you updated via social media (follow us on Instagram @ChicoState), email is the official way we communicate (we text in emergencies), so please check it regularly.
Along those lines, be on the lookout for an email from me tomorrow about campus safety.
As we dive into this new semester, let’s make the most of every opportunity. Together, we can create an awesome, supportive, and respectful community here at Chico State. Welcome back, Wildcats—let’s make this semester one to remember!