Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University is preparing for the arrival of students as the 2025-26 academic year begins. Move-in day for residence halls is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 21. The university will also launch its annual orientation program, Advantage, on the same day to help first-year students get familiar with campus life and resources before classes start on Monday, Aug. 25.
The Cat Crew, a group at Northwest, will assist families during move-in by helping new students transfer their belongings into residence halls. The University Police Department will be present to direct traffic and guide families through campus during this period.
To ensure safety and smooth movement around campus, some parking lots will be closed and traffic rerouted during move-in times. Community members are advised to expect higher traffic volume on and near campus.
University Police will begin directing traffic at about 7 a.m. on Aug. 21 in move-in zones to manage arrivals and reduce confusion.
Advantage activities include events such as Bingo night that aim to help students make connections and learn about available resources on campus. The schedule features the university’s annual convocation and pep rally for new students at 4 p.m., Friday, Aug. 22, at the Memorial Bell Tower. Northwest community members and families are invited to welcome new students as they walk under the tower in celebration of starting their college careers.
The Advantage program concludes with a back-to-school fireworks display at approximately 8:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 24, at Donaldson Westside Park west of campus on North Country Club Road. This event is open to the public.
For more information about on-campus traffic and parking during move-in or updates from University Police, individuals can contact University Police at 660.562.1254 or follow them on social media platforms such as Twitter or Facebook.
Individuals seeking details about Advantage or other campus events throughout the year are encouraged to visit the university’s website or contact relevant departments by phone or email.
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