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Dear Valpo Student:
Valparaiso University is proud to welcome you as the newest member of our community. This is an exciting moment as you begin your journey at Valpo, and we are thrilled to have you here.
FOCUS is designed to support your transition by connecting you with the people, resources, and opportunities that will shape your #ValpoExperience. During your time on campus, you’ll meet fellow students, explore student life, and work with advisors to prepare for your first semester.
At Valpo, we are committed to helping you grow as a leader in your community—building a life of purpose and impact. FOCUS is the first step in that journey, and we look forward to helping you begin building a life for good.
Our FOCUS staff is here to guide and support you every step of the way. We are excited that you’ve chosen Valpo and can’t wait to see all that you will accomplish.

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Arce, M.Ed. Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement
All times are Central Daylight Time (the same as Chicago).
8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Campus Offices Open
8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Campus Store (Bookstore) Open
Pre-FOCUS Sessions: If you are in one of these programs, we ask that you come to these morning sessions to meet with representatives from these respective areas.
8–8:30 a.m.
Pre-FOCUS Session Check-In Harre Union, Atrium
8:30–9:45 a.m. Student-Athlete Information Session Center for the Arts, Duesenberg Recital Hall
8:30–9:45 a.m. Christ College — The Honors College Student Gathering Harre Union, Brown & Gold Room
9–9:45 a.m. FOCUS Check-In Harre Union, Atrium
8–9:45 a.m. Visit a Residence Hall
8–9:45 a.m. Visit the Commuter Student Space
10–10:30 a.m. Opening Welcome Harre Union, Ballrooms
If you are joining us for these pre-FOCUS sessions, please arrive during this time to get all your FOCUS materials.
All NCAA athletes from all sports are required to attend. Family and guests are welcome as well. Meet with compliance staff to go over information for this stage in your transition to Valpo Athletics and get questions answered. A representative from Christ College — The Honors College will be on hand to support student-athletes who are also enrolled (or interested) in the honors college.
Christ College Scholars: Get to know your Christ College — The Honors College (CC) classmates and CC staff, who will support you in your CC academic advising. Learn about typical CC classes, honors advising/registration, and the many opportunities in store for you as a Christ College Scholar.
Pick up your FOCUS materials from the checkin table, get set-up for your OneCard ID with information technology (IT), and meet with campus staff for resources and tours.
Tours leave continuously. Meet the residential life staff in the Harre Union, Grand Lounge (first floor near Founders Table) for a brief escorted visit to our firstyear and transfer residence halls.
Tours leave continuously. Meet the student life staff in the Harre Union, Grand Lounge (first floor near Founders Table) for a brief visit to our Community Room and Commuter Student Kitchen, escorted by the coordinator of student support and commuter programs.
Valpo staff and orientation assistants (OAs) officially welcome you to campus as we kick off FOCUS together!
10:35–11 a.m.
All That We Share: Faith Life Chapel of the Resurrection
11:05–11:40 a.m.
Orientation Group Meeting Various Locations
11:45 a.m. – Noon
Exploring Campus Food Harre Union, Brown & Gold Room
What if there is more that brings us together than makes us different? Explore this and learn how Valpo can assist you on your spiritual journey, whatever your faith background.
Get to know classmates through interactive activities. You will lean into Valpo’s mission, “to lead and serve,” learning about purpose, calling, and what Valpo has to offer to explore your personal values and make an impact on society.
Meet the people behind the meal and learn all about our dining program! Have your choice of a wide variety of delicious and nutritious meals featuring local and sustainable food sources, build-your-own meal concepts, and special options for most diets including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free.
Noon – 12:40 p.m. Lunch
Harre Union, Founders Table
Dine with and get to know your OA group.
12:45–2:15 p.m.
Get Excited about the Valpo Student Experience! Christopher Center Library, Various Locations
During this time, you will learn about various opportunities to get involved, seek resources, and meet the Valpo Beacons who are here to support you from Day One!
Christopher Center Library, Room 205
What do you want your time to look like at Valpo? Learn more about how to enhance and elevate your student experience at Valpo. Gain insights to get involved and map out what some of your engagement experiences could look like during your journey at Valpo! myLife. myExperience. myValpo.
Beginning Your Valpo Service Journey
Christopher Center Library, Community Room
Stay Connected to Technology
Christopher Center Library, Help Desk
Service is a key part of the University ’s mission and the overall student experience. Start your Valpo service journey by participating in a mini service project that will help you learn about a local nonprofit organization and support their cause.
Learn about the campus technology systems you will use regularly, what you should and should not bring to campus in the fall, and how to grant parent/ guest access to your Valpo account information.
1:45 p.m. until complete, Christopher Center Library
Transfer Student Academic Advising and Registration: Meet in a small group with an academic advisor to build your fall semester class schedule. Bring copies of your unofficial college transcript(s) to help in your class selection process.
Transfer students who will be living on campus complete the online housing preference in the computer lab area in which you register for classes. The housing preference form is where students can request a roommate.
2:20–3 p.m.
Orientation Group Meeting Various Locations
3:10 p.m.
Advising/Registration Announcements
Neils Science Center, Room 234
3:15 p.m. until complete
Academic Advising and Class Registration Various Locations
Meet with your OA to talk more about the academic expectations of being a student at Valparaiso University. This session will talk about the Honor Code, Valparaiso University Experience (VUE), Christ College, and other important aspects of your first year in college classes.
All students gather for advising/registration announcements. From here, everyone in your college will go as a group to academic advising.
Bring your FOCUS folder with you for registration. Meet in small groups with our specially selected FOCUS academic advisors to choose your fall semester classes. You will be instructed where to go to register based on your college. Immediately following registration, complete the FOCUS evaluation and your online housing confirmation form in the computer lab area (where you register for classes). The online housing confirmation form is also where students can request/confirm a roommate.
When you finish class registration, go to the Resources Fair which is taking place until 5 p.m.
Resources Fair
Harre Union, Ballrooms A & B
5–6 p.m. Dinner
Harre Union, Founders Table
See resources you didn’t even know existed! Gather program information and talk with representatives from various campus departments. Note: See the list of participants in your FOCUS folder.
Relax at the end of the day knowing you are prepared for the next steps at Valpo!





Don’t miss out on Welcome Week 2026! It will begin with new student move-in day on Saturday, August 22, and continue through the first week of classes. Details will be announced by the end of July. Plan to start your #ValpoExperience the same way by enjoying all the Welcome Week activities and Valpo will feel like home quickly!
• Social gatherings and entertainment
• Academic and Community Expectations meetings
• Commuter student gatherings
• Transfer student gatherings
• Residence hall meetings and gatherings
• Worship services
• Multicultural events
• Opening Convocation
• Rock the ARC recreation night and so much more!

See valpo.edu/registrar/calendar for 2026–2027 dates including:
August 22–25
August 26
August 26–30
September 25-27
October 15–16
November 21–29
December 14–18
December 19
Required Welcome Week activities (Move-In Day is Saturday, August 22)
First day of classes
Welcome Week events continue
Homecoming and Family Weekend
Fall Break — No classes, residence areas remain open
Thanksgiving Break — No classes, residence areas close Final exams
Residence areas close for semester break





Bryn Benzing ’26, a recent Valpo graduate, majored in nursing, with minors in healthcare leadership, public health, and human biology. Bryn is from Columbia City, Indiana. She chose Valpo for its opportunities to get involved and grow as a leader. Bryn is deeply involved on campus, having served on the University Programming Council, Dance Marathon, Order of Omega, and is returning for her second year as a lead orientation assistant. Her most memorable experience has been serving as chapter president for Kappa Kappa Gamma, where she was able to lead, support others, and grow personally. In her free time, Bryn enjoys attending sporting events, going downtown with friends, and visiting the Dunes.

Isabelle Byrt ’27 is a biology major with a chemistry minor from Beverly Shores, Indiana. She chose Valpo for its welcoming and close-knit community. Isabelle is involved in Alpha Gamma Delta, serves as treasurer for French Club and Earthtones, participates in Christ College — the Honors College, and attends weekly worship opportunities. Her most memorable experiences include serving as an orientation assistant and regularly attending Celebrate! services at the Chapel. In her free time, Isabelle enjoys going to the gym, exploring coffee shops, attending local events, and spending time with friends and family.


Emma Carpenter ’27 is a nursing major from Hebron, Indiana. She chose Valpo because of her family connection, strong nursing program, and welcoming campus community. Emma serves as the philanthropy director for her sorority and the public relations chair for Earthtones, and is involved in the Student Nurses Association. She has also served as a recruitment counselor and is returning to support FOCUS as a lead orientation assistant. Her most memorable experiences include volunteering as a mascot with a friend and serving as a recruitment counselor on Bid Day. In her free time, Emma enjoys attending campus events, volunteering, and exploring local coffee shops and the Valparaiso Market.






Kendall Havlin ’28 is a psychology major from Michigan City, Indiana. She chose Valpo for its proximity to home and the balance it offers between commuting and campus involvement. Kendall is the director of public relations for Kappa Kappa Gamma, an ambassador in admission, a member of Order of Omega, and participates in intramural sports. Her most memorable experience at Valpo was studying abroad in Ireland over spring break, where she connected with other students and learned together. In her free time, Kendall enjoys going to Valpo Velvet, exploring the Indiana Dunes, and spending time with friends.
Michael Hernandez ’28 is a music therapy major from Calumet City, Illinois. He chose Valpo for its supportive music environment and the sense of belonging he felt on campus. Michael is highly involved in music and leadership, serving as president of the Student Music Therapy Association and holding multiple leadership roles in Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, along with involvement in several other organizations and ensembles. His most memorable experience at Valpo has been joining Phi Mu Alpha and finding a strong sense of brotherhood. In his free time, Michael enjoys attending performances and going out to eat with friends.
Delaney Hershberger ’29 is a criminology and Spanish double major from Fowler, Indiana. She chose Valpo because of the strong sense of community and how at home she felt during her visit. Delaney is involved in Student Senate, Dance Marathon, the Political Science Student Association, the Black Student Organization (BSO), and works as a lifeguard at the swimming pool at the ARC. Her most memorable experience at Valpo has been the many meaningful moments she’s had through her involvement on campus. In her free time, Delaney enjoys spending time with friends and being outdoors.
Sara Johnson ’27 is an elementary education major with minors in special education, early childhood, and social work from Schaumburg, Illinois. She chose Valpo for its close-knit, supportive community and strong relationships with faculty. Sara is involved in sorority life as a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, the Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, College Mentors for Kids, and the Elementary Education Executive Board, where she serves in leadership roles. Her most memorable experience has been joining her sorority and finding a supportive group that has helped her grow. In her free time, Sara enjoys spending time with friends, going to the beach, and playing intramural sports.

Sophia Jackson ’27 is an elementary education and direct practice social work major from Cedar Lake, Indiana. She chose Valpo because she felt a strong connection to the education program during her visit. Sophia is a resident assistant, sorority life recruitment counselor, education department president, and member of Hooked on Tonics. Her most memorable experience at Valpo was her spring break service trip, where she met new people and gained meaningful experiences. In her free time, Sophia enjoys singing with friends, spending time in Alumni Hall, and studying at her favorite campus spots.

Logan Jurgensen ’29 is a health sciences major from Granger, Indiana. He chose Valpo after being admitted into the physician assistant program. Logan is involved in intramural sports, works with the Harre Union Event Services Team, and regularly attends campus events. His most memorable experience at Valpo has been making lifelong friends. He appreciates the culture and community on campus. In his free time, Logan enjoys playing sports and staying active.


Elijah Pappas ’28 is a finance major with a music minor from Crown Point, Indiana. He chose Valpo for its strong business and music programs. Elijah is involved in the Interfraternity Council, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Symphony Orchestra, and Jazz Band. His most memorable experience has been performing music in the Chapel, where the sound and atmosphere create a unique and unforgettable experience. In his free time, Elijah enjoys playing drums, attending campus events, and discovering new activities happening around campus.

Vionney Taylor ’27 is a nursing major from Michigan City, Indiana. She chose Valpo for its strong academics and close proximity to home. Vionney is a returning orientation assistant and has participated in a spring break mission trip. Her most memorable experience at Valpo has been meeting new people and forming meaningful connections that have made her college journey exciting and rewarding. She appreciates the welcoming and supportive community. In her free time, Vionney enjoys going to Crumbl Cookies, exploring downtown Valparaiso, and spending time with friends.


VALPO VIBES CONCERT AUGUST 29

DAY OF CARING COMMUNITY SERVICE SEPTEMBER 19

FEAST FROM THE EAST NOVEMBER 6

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH DINNER
SEPTEMBER 18

HOMECOMING & FAMILY WEEKEND
SEPTEMBER 25-27

TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION
DECEMBER 1

MLK DAY
CELEBRATION
JANUARY 18

WORLD BANQUET

BLACK EXPO
FEBRUARY 27

DANCE MARATHON PHILANTHROPY APRIL 10

FEBRUARY 28 DRAG SHOW APRIL 10

105th ANNUAL SONGFEST
APRIL 18
• Back-up contact list
• Alarm clock with battery back-up
• Book bag/backpack
• Desk supplies — pens, highlighters, pencils, erasers, scissors, glue, stapler, paper clips, folders, note pads, theme books, organizers, rulers, tape
• Dishes — mugs, bowls, silverware, plates
• Fan
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Hangers, laundry bag/basket, supplies
• Portable phone charger(s)
• Basic tools — hammer, screwdriver, etc.
• Athletic equipment — tennis racket, racquetball paddle, Rollerblades, baseball/softball glove, Frisbee, soccer ball, basketball, football, golf clubs
• Bicycle
• Bookends
• Collapsible drying rack for laundry
• Computer and supplies*
• Mounting tape for hanging pictures on walls
• Entertainment equipment — radio, stereo, TV, video games, musical instruments, board games, cards, portable speaker
• Storage containers, paper towels
• Toiletries — soap, shaving supplies, Band-Aids, toothbrush, dental accessories, hair products, deodorants, hair dryer, cotton balls, safety pins, eye care products, make-up, face cleaning products, tissue, sunscreen
• Twin-size bedding — pillows, blankets, sheets, comforter, bedspread, mattress pad (We recommend extralong length.)
• Umbrella, raincoat
• Wastebasket
• Pictures and posters for walls
• Plants, plant food, watering can
• Shelves — crates, bricks, cinder blocks, and boards can all be used to make shelves anywhere in residence hall
• Shower tote
• Throw rug/carpet remnant
• Wipe-away message board and markers
*Note: Computer required for engineering majors

• Duplicate TVs, carpets, etc. (You’ll find out your roommate’s name and contact information in mid-July. We suggest you contact them, not only to introduce yourself, but also to make arrangements as to who will bring what items.)
• Nails or tacks for hanging posters (Although you may hang up or tack them down with double-faced tape, or mounting putty, you may not use nails or tacks on the residence hall walls.)
• Pets, unless they’re fish (aquariums limited to 10 gallons)
• Halogen floor lamps
• Candles
• Microwaves (each room has a microfridge combo)
Have you met someone with whom you’d like to room on campus? You can submit this request when you complete your New Student Housing Confirmation after registering for classes. If you meet someone after FOCUS, you can still log into datavu.valpo.edu — Students Menu — Housing Self Service to send them a roommate request. The roommate you request needs to confirm the request via the online housing system in order to be matched.

It is best to find and confirm your roommate as soon as possible as room inventory and the number of students without a roommate will decrease as the summer progresses. All roommate confirmations must be completed on DataVU Housing Self-Service no later than noon on Friday, July 31, 2026. If you have questions, please contact Residential Life at 219.464.5413 or email reslife@valpo.edu.
Visit valpo.edu/reslife for details.







Dear Family Members and Supporters:
Valparaiso University warmly welcomes you and your student to FOCUS!
This program is designed to support your student’s transition and introduce the people, resources, and opportunities that will shape their #ValpoExperience. Throughout your time here, you’ll learn more about campus resources, connect with university staff, and gain insight into the academic and involvement experiences that define life at Valpo.
At Valpo, we are committed to helping your student grow as a leader, develop a strong sense of purpose, and contribute meaningfully to the greater society. FOCUS marks the beginning of that journey as we partner with you to support your student in building a life for good.
We encourage you to attend sessions, ask questions, and connect with other families. The FOCUS staff is here to support both you and your student throughout your visit.
Your student is now part of the Valpo community — and we are proud to welcome you as part of it as well!

Sincerely,

Thomas A. Arce, M.Ed. Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement
All times are Central Daylight Time (the same as Chicago).
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Campus Offices Open
8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Campus Store (Bookstore) Open
Pre-FOCUS Sessions: If you have a student in one of these programs, we ask that you come to these morning sessions to meet with representatives from these respective areas.
8–8:30 a.m.
FOCUS Check-In
Harre Union, Atrium
8:30–9:45 a.m.
Student-Athlete
Information Session Center for the Arts, Duesenberg Recital Hall
9–9:45 a.m.
FOCUS Check-In
Harre Union, Atrium
8–9:45 a.m.
Visit a Residence Hall
8–9:45 a.m.
Visit the Commuter Space
If you are joining us for these pre-FOCUS sessions, please arrive during this time to get all your FOCUS materials.
All NCAA athletes from all sports are required to attend. Family and guests are welcome as well. Meet with compliance staff to go over information for this stage in your student’s transition to Valpo Athletics and get questions answered. A representative from Christ College — The Honors College will be on hand to support student-athletes who are also enrolled (or interested) in the honors college.
Students check their guests in for FOCUS, and you all have the opportunity to meet with campus staff for resources and tours.
Tours leave continuously. Meet the Residential Life staff in the Harre Union, Grand Lounge (on the first floor near Founders Table) for a brief escorted visit to our first-year and transfer residence halls.
Tours leave continuously. Meet the Student Life staff for a brief visit to our community room and commuter student kitchen, escorted by the Coordinator of Student Support & Commuter Programs.
10–10:30 a.m. Opening Welcome Harre Union, Ballrooms
10:30–11 a.m.
Decoding College Life: A Parent and Family Guide to Thriving at Valpo Harre Union, Ballrooms
Valpo staff and orientation assistants (OAs) officially welcome you to campus as we kick off FOCUS together!
What does it really take for students to succeed at Valpo? The Dean of Students will break it down for you! We’ll explore the expectations for Valpo families and introduce you to the student life services designed to help your Valpo student make the most of their Valpo experience.
11:15 a.m. – Noon, Various Locations
Introduction to the Colleges: Now that your student has chosen Valpo, there are details to learn that are more in-depth than anything covered during a visit day. Representatives from the colleges talk about curricular expectations, academic resources, and students’ transition to academics at Valpo.
College of Arts and Sciences College of Business College of Engineering
Christopher Center Library, Room 205
Urschel Hall, Room 202
Gellersen Engineering & Mathematics Center, Room 120 College of Nursing and Health Professions
Neils Science Center, Room 224
12:15–12:45 p.m.
Valpo’s Lutheran Identity and Why it Matters Harre Union, Brown & Gold Room
12:45–1:30 p.m. Lunch Harre Union, Founders Table
Come meet with the staff from Calling & Spiritual Life, learn about the mission of Valparaiso University, and how the mission and values of the University will help shape your student’s time here.
Dine with and introduce yourself to other family members of new Valpo students.
1:35–2:20 p.m., Various Locations
Academic Focus Sessions (Choose One)
Your student’s Valpo academic environment parent and family meetings.
Valparaiso University Experience (VUE)
Center for the Arts, University Theatre
Christ College Parents Meeting Mueller Hall, Refectory
Family members and guests of Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) students learn about this foundational course sequence students take as they begin their Valpo academic journey. Note: Your student will be in the VUE program if they are not in Christ College.
Family members and guests of Christ College Scholars learn about the academic environment that your student will experience. Note: Check name tag for Christ College program designation.
2:25–3 p.m., Various Locations
Campus Resource Presentation (Choose One)
Note: Families with more than one person in attendance today should split up to experience multiple sessions at the same time. Staff from most sessions will be available at the Resources Fair later this afternoon if you cannot attend a session or have additional questions.
World 101:
and Career Planning
Urschel Hall, Room 202
Academic Support Overview Neils Science Center, Room 224
Student Accounts and Financial Aid Q&A Center for the Arts, Recital Hall
3–3:15 p.m.
Coffee and Cookies Snack Break Center for the Arts, Main Lobby
The Valparaiso University Career and Alumni Network (VUCAN) representatives share the resources that can be used beginning the first year at Valpo through graduation.
There are many resources on campus to help your student succeed. Come learn about the various academic support resources that will help your student excel in the classroom.
We reminded your student earlier today that this bill is all theirs; however, we understand that you may be graciously helping to cover their Valpo payments. The Offices of Student Accounts and Financial Aid present an overview of student account self-service, financial aid, billing information, payment plans, and more.
We invite you to join Valparaiso University faculty and staff for a snack break with coffee and cookies.
3:20–4:10 p.m., Various Locations Supporting Your Student (Choose One)
Note: These sessions are geared toward families of students living on campus (residence halls) or living at home (commuting).
Supporting Your Residential Student (for Families of Students Living on Campus)
Center for the Arts, University Theatre
Supporting Your Commuter Student (for Families of Students Living at Home) Center for the Arts, Recital Hall
As your student embarks on their college journey, how can you empower them to succeed while living on campus? Our student support team is here to help both you and your student. We will share with you information about resources including the Counseling Center, the Student Health Center, and residential life, and how they can provide support to students living on campus. We will also discuss helpful strategies and advice on guiding your student as they navigate academics and campus life while fostering their independence.
How can you champion your student’s success while they navigate college life? We understand the unique needs and challenges of commuter students. Our student support team will share available resources including the Counseling Center, the Student Health Center, and other student support programs designed to help our commuter students thrive at Valpo. We’ll also be discussing helpful strategies and recommendations on empowering your student to ensure they are set up for success during their Valpo journey.
4:15–5 p.m. Resources Fair
Harre Union, Ballrooms
5–6 p.m. Dinner
Harre Union, Founders Table
This is your chance to ask all the questions that would embarrass your student. Talk with representatives from various campus departments and gather resource information. Note: See the list of participants in your FOCUS folder.
Relax at the end of the day knowing you and your student are prepared for the next steps at Valpo!




Encourage your student to participate in Welcome Week 2026! It will begin with new student move-in day on Saturday, August 22, and continue through the first week of classes. Details will be announced by the end of July. Valpo students are very involved in and out of the classroom. Your student should plan to start their #ValpoExperience the same way by enjoying all the Welcome Week activities and Valpo will feel like home quickly!
• Social gatherings and entertainment
• Academic and Community Expectations meetings
• Commuter student gatherings
• Transfer student gatherings
• Residence hall meetings and gatherings
• Worship services
• Multicultural events
• Opening Convocation
• Rock the ARC recreation night and so much more!

See valpo.edu/registrar/calendar for 2026–2027 dates including:
August 22–25
August 26
August 26–30
September 25-27
October 15–16
November 21–29
December 14–18
December 19
Required Welcome Week activities (Move-In Day is Saturday, August 22)
First day of classes
Welcome Week events continue
Homecoming and Family Weekend
Fall Break — No classes, residence areas remain open
Thanksgiving Break — No classes, residence areas close
Final exams
Residence areas close for semester break
Stay connected and informed throughout your student’s Valpo journey by signing up for Valpo Family Connection, Valpo’s parent and family portal! It’s the easiest way to stay up to date on important campus news, upcoming events, key deadlines, and helpful resources — all in one place.
Personalized newsletters and email alerts make it simple to get updates that impact your student, and helpful articles and content help you stay engaged while supporting them every step of the way.
If you haven’t already, visit valpo.campusesp.com to register your account.
