Students return to campus next week and will be greeted by UNM's annual Spring 2026 Welcome Back Days, a series of events designed to help Lobos reconnect with campus life, discover involvement opportunities and build community at the start of the spring semester.

Welcome Back Days begin Wednesday, Jan. 21, with events running through the first week of the semester. The activities bring together UNM departments, Greek life and student organizations to introduce students to campus resources in an engaging and welcoming environment.

"Welcome Back Days are about helping students feel at home and connected right from the start," said Megann Roszak, student activities advisor, who coordinates the event. "Whether students are new to UNM or returning for another semester, these events help them build meaningful connections with peers, campus resources and opportunities for involvement."

This year's Welcome Back Days include multiple opportunities for students to explore campus life, including:

• Department and Greek Life Day, where students can connect with academic programs, campus services and Greek organizations to learn about leadership opportunities and support resources
• Student Organization Day, which highlights UNM's more than 450 chartered student organizations and offers students a chance to find communities aligned with their interests.

Welcome Back Days have long been a staple of campus life at UNM. In spring 2025, the Student Activities Center hosted events in the Student Union Building Atrium, allowing students to connect with student organizations and Greek life early in the semester. The tradition expanded further in fall 2025 with a full week of events featuring social activities, campus resource fairs and opportunities to engage with university leadership.

"Our goal is to create an inviting space where students can explore what UNM has to offer," Roszak said. "Welcome Back Days set the tone for the semester by emphasizing community, engagement and student success."

Students are encouraged to stop by Welcome Back Days events in the Student Union Building Atrium during the scheduled times to meet fellow Lobos, learn about campus resources and explore ways to get involved.

Departments and student organizations interested in participating can register through the Student Activities Center.

For a full schedule and event updates, visit the UNM Events Calendar or the Student Activities Center website.