Welcome, new Gannon Knights. We are excited you are here on campus with us to take your first of many important steps throughout your journey at Gannon University.
Gannon is a place where your life experience is more than your academic studies. It is where you will meet and form lifelong friends, where you will create memories engaging in campus events and traditions, competing with teammates or cheering on your peers in your best maroon and gold gear, where you will gain new experiences giving back to the community and more. Today’s Orientation programming is just a sneak peek at what you will experience throughout your time here. Gannon is often referred to as a family, and today, we welcome you into ours. Our community is here to provide you the support, resources and inspiration you need to make the most of your Gannon experience and achieve your personal, academic and career goals.
I am looking forward to meeting you today, and to your return to campus during Welcome Week in August when we will share in the long-standing tradition of your class photo under Gannon’s iconic arch and taking those first steps together as official Gannon Knights.
There is much to look forward to throughout today’s Orientation programming and in the coming weeks as we anticipate the start of your journey at Gannon University and the 2026-2027 Academic Year.
Welcome home, Knights.
God Bless,
Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D. President, Gannon University
WELCOME TO ORIENTATION
Orientation is a whirlwind of people, places and activities designed to welcome you to the Gannon family. You may have feelings about Orientation: uncertainty, anxiety and excitement. But don’t worry! We have planned a program to ease the transition to college and introduce you to your classmates, professors and the many Gannon community members who are here to support you over the next four or more years. You will learn about the many opportunities that you will have during your time at Gannon, but it’s up to you to make the most of them.
Gannon makes it possible. You make it happen.
ACCEPTED STUDENT TO-DO LIST
ACADEMICS
Review your course schedule
Purchase your textbooks
Send in any AP Scores or Transfer Credit requests
ENGAGEMENT: Learn about opportunitiesengagement
Register for orientation Download the Corq app
HEALTHAND WELL-BEING:
BASIC
NEEDS:
Identify your network ID
Confirm your requirementstechnology
Apply for housing and a meal plan or connect with commuter life
Have AP or Transfer Credits you need to be evaluated?
Official AP scores or college transfer courses should be submitted directly to the Registrar’s Office from College Board or the previous university attended. Schedules are changed after AP scores are received in July, so continue to check your schedule throughout the summer. While most credits can be granted for AP scores of at least a 3, some require a score of 4 or 5. For questions about AP credit practices, contact Undergraduate Admissions at 814-871-7240, or the Registrar at 814-871-7611.
TRANSITION GUIDE TOP 10 TIPS FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS
Try new things right away! Whether it is hanging out in the Commuter Corner, attending a Residence Life program, participating in Welcome Week, or going to Campus Ministry’s First Year Retreat – find something you want to try right away, it’s the best time when everyone is also trying to make new friends!
Pack Light! Trust us - you don’t need to pack everything you own. Be mindful of the size of your room and that you are sharing it with at least one other person. For your closet, only bring the clothes you will need for that season or things you can layer easily. It’s a critical skill to have when living in Erie!
Trust the orientation process. Orientation is intentionally designed to introduce you to people, places and programs on campus that will make your years at Gannon great. Participate in all the sessions and be open to making new friends in your small group.
Ask for help as soon as you think you need it. You’re not expected to know everything, and we are here to help you! Professors love getting to know their students during office hours, and the library is full of people and resources to assist you. We know what it’s like to be in your shoes and want to do everything we can to help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; everyone does it!
Use a planner or calendar. College classes are scheduled much differently than high school, so you may be tricked into feeling like you have a lot of “free time” during the day. Organize your free time well so you can get your work done and have time to participate in campus activities and relax. Stop by the Student Success Center (SSC) for helpful tips to use a planner effectively.
Don’t feel too anxious about fitting in – there is a place for everyone at Gannon! But if you do feel anxious, know that many other students are feeling the same way right now. It may not happen on the first day, but you will find your place on campus. All you have to do is be yourself. We’re excited to get to know you exactly as you are!
Allow time to adjust to your new normal. It’s different for everyone, but it will take some time to figure out a good routine, make new friends and feel comfortable in your new home. Take some time to check in with yourself. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out to your Transition Guide, advisor, Gannon 101 Facilitator, Resident Assistant, Commuter Advisor, Campus Ministry, your coach, or the counseling staff. They are here to help you through your transition.
Things might not always go as planned – and that’s great! You may be coming into college with a four-year plan or no plan at all. Either way, be open to the new experiences and new interests that arise. Try to have a positive outlook toward change and know that you’re always learning and growing, even when things are different than you expected.
Find what you are passionate about. From clubs and organizations to research opportunities, student leadership roles, taking an interesting class or just going to a campus event, sometimes the best experiences in college are found when you’re trying something new. At the same time, remember to keep a balanced calendar and don’t stretch yourself too thin.
Remember to take care of yourself. Healthy eating, good sleep and hygiene habits and self-care routines often go out the window when students come to college. You can’t be at your best if you forget to take care of yourself. A healthy sleeping and eating schedule make all the difference in your well-being.
BONUS TIP: Read your Gannon email!
FALL SEMESTER DATES TO KNOW
Arrival Day August 21
Welcome Week August 21 - 25
IgKnight Fair August 25
First Day of Classes August 26
Last Day to Add/Drop Classes September 1
Labor Day – No Classes September 7
GIVE Day September 19
Homecoming/Family Weekend September 11 - 14
4-Week Grades are due September 22
Fall Break
Mid-Term Grades are due
Gannon READS Speaker Event
Advising Day
Thanksgiving Break
Finals
October 14 - 18
October 19
October 20
November 10
November 25 - 29
December 14 - 17
Final Grades are due December 20
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Medical Services
Through our partnership with the Allegheny Health Network (AHN), we offer a wide range of medical services in our Health Center which is staffed by registered nurses and physician assistants under the direction of a physician. Our medical health services team promotes health and well-being by educating students about the importance of addressing health needs, adopting healthy lifestyles and preventing disease and illness through participation in wellness activities; as well as by treating our students’ minor illnesses and injuries on site. Having a healthy body, mind, spirit and comprehensive well-being allows our students to conserve time and focus energy on their class work, studies and extra-curricular activities. Students can receive care throughout the academic year, often on a same day basis, by walking into the Health Center or by making a scheduled appointment (via phone (814)-871-7622, email health@gannon.edu.) The Health Center is closed during summer months and university holidays. Based on the type of service, insurance may be required.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
CAPS supports and fosters the psychological well-being and mental/emotional health of students by providing holistic, inclusive, affirmative and trauma-informed mental health services. These services include: in-person and online individual psychotherapy, psychoeducational groups, crisis intervention and stabilization, psychological assessment, executive function coaching, educational/preventative outreach programming, case management and referral, psychiatric evaluation and medication management and consultative services. As licensed psychologists, professional counselors and clinical social workers, the staff honor and adhere to the legal and ethical principles and standards of their state boards and professional associations to provide quality mental health care to students.
Students seek services for a variety of reasons, including: anxiety, stress, depression, family issues, past trauma, relationship concerns, anger issues, body image concerns and many other life challenges and stressors. CAPS triages all students seeking services and formulates an individualized treatment plan for each. Students may utilize CAPS free of charge with no health insurance needed. To initiate services or to ask questions, please email counseling@gannon.edu, and a clinician will respond promptly during normal business hours.
To complement our in-person/on-campus services, Gannon has partnered with BetterMynd to offer online psychotherapy services for students who prefer virtual counseling, who need evening or weekend appointments and/or who are seeking a clinician identity or specialization not represented in CAPS. Just like our on-campus services, BetterMynd’s services are free and do not require health insurance. To access online counseling, register here:
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need to speak with a licensed clinician immediately, call BetterMynd’s 24/7 Support Line anytime at 844-BTRMYND (844-287-6963)
CAPS hosts two Relaxation Rooms on campus. One is in Nash Library and the other is in the CAPS office in Beyer 305. The Relaxation Rooms are available to all students and include heated massage chairs, guided mindfulness exercises, coloring, light boxes, yoga and meditation resources, sand trays and more. These rooms can be reserved online and are free.
To reserve the Relaxation Room in Nash Library:
To reserve the Relaxation Room in Beyer 305:
Recreation and Wellness Center
The Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC) at Gannon University is a cutting-edge facility that seamlessly blends recreation, wellness, athletics and academics. This student-run center serves not only Gannon students, faculty and staff, but also the broader Erie community, offering a range of opportunities for student leadership development and community engagement through recreational activities.
Spanning over 250,000 square feet, the RWC encompasses a variety of spaces designed for year-round use, including an 80-yard indoor fieldhouse, a 6-lane lap swimming pool, a 3-court gymnasium and an indoor track. The center also includes expanded strength training areas and new cardio and weight equipment along with four unique studios, creating a culture of wellness and engagement that promotes physical health and well-being for all members of the Gannon community.
POLICE AND SAFETY
Police and Safety
Gannon Police and Safety is located on the west side of the lower level of the Harborview Apartments. The department employs 12 full-time sworn police officers who provide 24-hour police services to the Gannon community.
Campus Police and Safety operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The department also includes an Administrative Assistant who oversees parking operations, ID services, departmental records and a wide range of day-to-day administrative functions that support both the university community and Police and Safety operations.
We are committed to the safety and wellbeing of the Gannon community, visitors to campus, and those who travel through or live within our patrol area. Gannon University utilizes an integrated safety approach that includes more than 600 security cameras, mobile safety technology through the LiveSafe app including SafeWalk and emergency features, proactive patrol operations and strong partnerships with local emergency responders throughout Erie County.
Officers patrol campus on foot, by bicycle and in fully marked police vehicles while remaining focused on visibility, approachability, rapid response and community engagement.
LiveSafe
Gannon uses the LiveSafe app as a campus safety platform. Students, faculty and staff have been able to use the app for emergencies and to report suspicious activity. It also allows students and staff to virtually walk each other home for safety, a panic call option, a campus directory and campus map.
STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER
The SSC departments work together to provide students resources to thrive within the university community.
The Student Success Center (SSC) is home to three departments: Academic and Career Development, Office of Accessibility Services and TRIO/Student Support Services. The SSC is located in the A.J. Palumbo Academic Center, 1st floor.
Academic and Career Development:
Provide academic support, for example, learning strategies, time management and test taking skills. They also provide career readiness support, such as, resume reviews, internship and job searches. Students have access to the Career Closet as well. The Career Closet has donated professional clothing for students who need a suit-all free to the students! For more information please email: advisinghelp@gannon.edu or career@gannon.edu.
Office of Accessibility Services:
Gannon University’s Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) offers accommodations to qualifying students with documented disabilities. The Office assists eligible students in receiving reasonable accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students seeking information or assistance in any matter regarding qualification, accessibility or reasonable accommodations should contact the OAS at oas@gannon.edu or call 814-871-5522.
TRIO Student Support Services:
Federally-funded program designed to provide one to one mentoring, to assist in management of academics, financial, social and personal life that comes with attending college. To be eligible for the program, a student must be officially enrolled at Gannon University, be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, and must meet federal income eligibility guidelines, be a first generation college student, or have a documented disability. For more information please email: sss@gannon.edu.
NASH LIBRARY AND STUDENT LEARNING COMMONS
The Msgr. Wilfrid J. Nash Library and Student Learning Commons is a dynamic and engaging learning environment that provides resources, spaces and support to students at Gannon University to foster learning and academic success. The building contains spaces for quiet study as well as spaces for collaborative work. There are 49 study rooms of a variety of sizes and configurations designed to accommodate 2 to 10 students. Urban Brew, a cafe serving Starbucks coffee and beverages, is also located in Nash.
Nash Library’s collections contain over 180,000 book volumes and more than 1,000 audiovisual items. Special collections include the Gannon University Archives. The library provides online access to over 100 databases, 100,000 journals and over 1,000,000 ebooks. Other learning resources such as laptops, anatomical models and whiteboards are also available for checkout. Research assistance and information literacy instruction are integral parts of Nash Library’s educational mission.
STEM Center
The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Center provides free one on one and group tutoring opportunities for courses within the Morosky College of Health Professions and Sciences and the College of Engineering and Business, and supports related coursework from the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences. (Specific areas include mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, biology, health professions, engineering and business.) The STEM Center is staffed by a director and trained peer consultants.
Writing & Research Center
The Writing & Research Center (WRC) is staffed by professional and trained peer consultants who reflect our respect for the individual writer. The Writing & Research Center team has a strong commitment to service and regards language as fundamental to the holistic development of the student. We offer one-on-one conferencing, both in-house and online, for students of all abilities, including speakers of other languages. Undergraduate and Graduate students should visit the Writing & Research Center at any stage of the writing process, from any discipline.
In addition, the WRC provides tutoring for all CHESS courses, as well as support for the College of Communication and the Arts. The WRC also houses the CHESSMate Program, which aims to foster academic engagement and reinforce learning outcomes in CHESS courses through embedded peer mentorship and supplemental sessions.
To schedule an online or in-person appointment at the STEM Center or Writing and Research Center, students can visit http://gannon.mywconline.com.
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Everything Campus Ministry does is geared towards transformation through an encounter with the Love of God and love of neighbor. They do this by forming relationships with students that encourage them to become the best version of themselves. Campus Ministry seeks to serve students of all backgrounds: those who consider themselves religious, those who do not consider themselves religious and those who are not sure. They offer a wide variety of events and programs that give students ample opportunity to connect with Campus Ministry, develop meaningful friendships and to deepen their relationship with God. They offer retreats, small groups, ecumenical worship and one on one spiritual direction. The Catholic Mass is offered daily on campus in Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel.
The Campus Ministry team consists of full-time and part-time Campus Ministers, a part-time Music Ministry Coordinator and nearly 40 student-leaders! Campus Ministry has student Peer Ministers who serve in the first-year residence halls with the support of the full-time Campus Ministry Staff.
To learn more, follow us on Instagram at @gucampmin, or go to https://knightsgannon.sharepoint.com/sites/CampusMinistry
CENTER FOR SOCIAL CONCERNS
The Center for Social Concerns (CSC) equips students to engage with Gannon’s communities, both local and global, through purposeful service, exploration and action for the common good. Programming includes largescale local service immersion days (GIVE Day in the fall and Day of Caring in the spring), advocacy and awareness programming, Alternative Break Service Trips (see more below), local volunteer connections, academic community engagement and post-graduate service opportunities. These experiences provide students with the opportunity to serve and encounter the world, grow personally and professionally and build relationships in the Gannon community as well as the surrounding neighborhoods they live in.
Alternative Break Service Trip
ABSTs are student-led, small group, service and learning immersions rooted in the four pillars of service, simplicity, community and reflection. These noncredit bearing, weeklong experiences connect student leaders with student participants and faculty/staff accompaniers in transformative experiences with community partners in destinations across the US, Canada, Mexico and Guatemala. Each trip works to cultivate group formation, growth and dialogue through the year prior to a week-long service trip during spring break or in May.
LEARNING ABROAD
The Center for Global Learning at Gannon University goes beyond the traditional classroom, offering students transformative opportunities to immerse themselves in new cultures, experience diverse ways of learning and broaden their perspectives. Through study abroad programs, faculty-led courses and international partnerships, we help students step into the world as active learners, engaging with global communities in meaningful ways. These experiences not only enhance academic and professional growth but also foster a deep understanding of different cultures, preparing students to become thoughtful, adaptable and responsible global citizens.
Semester Exchange Programs
Gannon University offers students the opportunity to spend a semester abroad at one of our partner universities in Australia, Chile, England, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand and Spain. Through this exchange, students continue to pay their regular Gannon tuition while covering room and board costs at their host university. Federal financial aid applies, and Gannon scholarships and institutional aid are carried over just as they would be for a semester on campus. This program allows students to fully immerse themselves in a new academic and cultural environment while staying on track with their degree.
GIFT Courses
For students looking for shorter global experiences, Gannon: Inspired Facultyled Travel (GIFT) Courses provide immersive learning opportunities lasting 1 to 4 weeks. These courses fulfill Liberal Studies Core requirements, as well as major, minor and elective credits, integrating domestic or international travel with academic coursework. Travel takes place in the fall, over winter break, during spring break, or at the end of the spring semester in May. GIFT Courses provide hands-on, real-world applications of classroom learning while enhancing students' cultural competencies. All GIFT Courses are taken for academic credit.
Summer Study Abroad
Gannon students can explore summer study abroad options across the globe, choosing from programs offered by our partner universities or through affiliate providers. Programs range from 2 to 12 weeks, allowing students to earn credit toward Liberal Studies Core, major, or minor requirements while gaining valuable international experience. Summer study abroad is an excellent option for students seeking flexibility while engaging in a transformative global learning experience.
International Credit-Bearing Internships
Through our partnership with CISabroad, Gannon students can gain professional experience through international credit-bearing internships. These placements are customized based on students' majors and career goals, with individualized placement interviews ensuring a meaningful and relevant
The student ID card also acts as your GU Gold card. GU Gold funds can be used for a variety of purchases on and off campus. Deposits can be made any time during the year. Once funds are deposited, they cannot be withdrawn as cash or used to pay balances on a student’s tuition account. Funds remain on account from one semester to the next until the student graduates or withdraws. At that time, a refund can be requested. Visit www.gannon.edu/ gugold for more information.
Mailroom/Packages
The mailroom is located on the bottom floor of Palumbo Academic Center. All students living on campus are assigned a personal mailbox at the start of their time at Gannon and will receive their mailbox keys during move-in. A student is notified about any packages they receive through email.
Mail and packages should be addressed as follows: Student First & Last Name (NO NICKNAMES)
PMB #
824 Peach Street Erie, PA 16541
If students are ordering from a delivery service such as GrubHub, Instacart, pizza, or other food services they should use the physical address of their residence hall building and greet the delivery driver at the entrance of their building upon arrival.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (ITS)
Information Technology Services (ITS): Here to Help You Succeed
At Gannon, technology supports everything you do—from coursework to collaboration. ITS is here to keep you connected, productive, and supported from day one.
ITS Help Desk
Located on the third floor of the Palumbo Academic Center, the ITS Help Desk provides:
• In person support
• Phone assistance
• Online troubleshooting
Support is available during business hours, with expanded hours of availability during Welcome Week and semester start Phone: 814-871-7501
IT Support Online
Access help anytime at: https://itsupport.gannon.edu (Gannon login required)
High Speed Wireless Access
Gannon’s campus network supports modern, high performance Wi Fi across academic and residential spaces.
• Register your devices once via our secure portal
• For best performance, use 5GHz capable devices
Computing & Printing Resources
Student computer labs are available throughout campus, including locations with extended hours.
Each student receives 600 prepaid print pages per semester, usable at any campus printer. Additional printing is available at a minimal cost.
Your Computer, Your Choice
While not required, personal laptops are encouraged. Students may purchase computers from any vendor, provided they meet Gannon’s recommended standards.
Both platforms are fully supported—choose the system you’re comfortable with.
Software Access
All students receive Microsoft Office 365 for free while enrolled. Additional academic software discounts are available through JourneyEd.
QUESTIONS
LIBERAL STUDIES CORE CURRICULUM
Foundational courses should be taken during the first-year but can be taken in any order in either fall or spring.
There is no specific sequence for the Integrative core courses or the additional requirements (wellness and writing intensive). They may be taken at any time during your time at Gannon. All requirements have multiple options to choose from so make sure to check Self-Service to see all the possibilities!
The Wellness and Writing Intensive requirements can be met within major courses, attached to other Liberal Studies requirements, or taken as general electives as long as they are identified as the correct requirement.
Vocational core courses should be taken your junior or senior years.
FOUNDATIONAL CORE (9 CREDITS)
3 cr. Foundational English
3 cr. Foundational Philosophy
3 cr. Foundational Theology
VOCATIONAL CORE 6 CREDITS
FOUNDATIONAL CORE 9 CREDITS
CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION
INTEGRATIVE CORE 21 - 28 CREDITS
INTEGRATIVE CORE (21 TO 28 CREDITS)
3 cr. Integrative Communication
3 cr. Integrative English
3 cr. Integrative History
3 cr. Integrative Philosophy
3 cr. Integrative Theology
3 cr. Global Citizenship
3 cr. Quantitative Reasoning*
3 cr. Aesthetic Reasoning*
3 to 4 cr. Scientific Reasoning*
VOCATIONAL CORE (6 CREDITS)
3 cr. Professional Communication
3 cr. Professional Ethics/Leadership
REQUIREMENTS
Wellness
Writing Intensive
* Per university learning outcomes, all students at Gannon must have courses in quantitative reasoning, scientific reasoning, and aesthetic reasoning. Up to two of the three reasoning requirements may be met in major.
FINANCIAL AID
We are committed to offering you the best financial assistance package possible. We want your Gannon education to be exceptional and affordable. More than 90 percent of Gannon students qualify for financial assistance. We offer a variety of scholarships, grants and awards that recognize academic and athletic accomplishments, outstanding talents and demonstrated need. While income is an important part of financial strength, many other factors are examined when determining the amount and type of financial aid you will receive, such as family size and assets.
We advise all students, no matter their income level, to complete the Gannon Net Price Calculator and the online FAFSA form so they can be considered for every available resource.
The Gannon FASFA code is 003266.
PAYING YOUR TUITION BILL
There are several ways to pay your tuition bill when the time comes. The Cashier’s Office can accept a variety of payment methods including payment plans.
• Cash, Check or Money Order
• Online Payment:
• E-Check and Credit Card payments can be made using GU Self Service in Student Finance or at www.gannon.edu/epayment.
• ACH (E-check) payments are accepted
• A service fee is assessed on credit card transactions.
• Cards accepted: VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
• Payment Plan:
• Semester Plan A semester payment plan is available through GU Self service. More information can be found under Student Finance.
CAMPUS CIVILITY
In keeping with its Catholic Intellectual Tradition, Gannon University offers a comprehensive, values-centered learning experience that emphasizes faith, leadership, inclusiveness and social responsibility. Gannon pledges to maintain a civil campus climate in which students, employees and visitors can experience a safe, mutually supportive, academically encouraging, egalitarian and tolerant community.
Gannon University expects all students, faculty, and staff members and groups to exercise civility. Gannon does not tolerate the subjection of another person, group or class or person to inappropriate, abusive, threatening or demanding actions.
Title IX (1972) is a landmark federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities. Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, which can include:
• Gender-based discrimination
• Sexual harassment
• Sexual violence
• Discrimination based on pregnancy
Gannon University takes these matters seriously, not just to comply with the law, but also to provide a safe and enriching campus for all our students. We have programs in place to educate our student body and provide preventative training.
Colleges must take immediate action to address and prevent sexual discrimination on their campuses. Any student or faculty member wishing to file a complaint may contact:
• Campus Police and Safety
• Title IX Coordinator
More information regarding Title IX and sexual prevention and response can be found online at www.gannon.edu/about-gannon/title-ix/ or in the Student Handbook.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
FERPA governs the disclosure of –and access to – education records maintained by an educational institution. Once a student of any age enters college, the student owns their education record; and parents may only access it if the student chooses to provide written permission. The student can complete this permission through the Registrar office at Gannon University.
If you have questions about FERPA or need help with the form, please contact Registrar Office at registrar@gannon.edu
