A Great Start for UAlbany’s Newest Great Danes

By Amy Geduldig

ALBANY, N.Y. (Aug. 25, 2026) – Last week, the University welcomed the largest first-year class in its 182-year history. Once settled into their residence halls, the new Great Danes took part in the University's traditional Welcome Week festivities.

More than 3,500 first-year and transfer students gathered for the annual class photo at Collins Circle, followed by Convocation by Candlelight on Wednesday evening.  

Michael Christakis, vice president for student affairs & enrollment, kicked off the event. "This evening, we celebrate you—the newest members of the University at Albany community. Just as generations of Great Danes before you have stood on this very plaza with candle in hand, you now join a tradition that connects you to our past and points you toward your future.”

UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez encouraged students "to seize every opportunity, large and small, that comes your way... Study hard and never ever give up. There is so much we offer at the University at Albany, but it is up to you to take advantage of all of it, and I hope you will do just that because you are now part of our Great Dane family.”

Students cheered as Provost Carol Kim then introduced the incoming class to the University’s nine schools and colleges. The program concluded with a fireworks display.

Welcome Week continued through the week with the President’s picnic on Thursday and a new nighttime carnival on Friday featuring a Ferris wheel on Collins Circle. Festivities continued over the weekend with the University's annual Great Danetopia held on Saturday at Casey Stadium, where students were introduced to more than 60 academic and student affairs departments.