Cub Camp Kick Off

Written By: Ian Silvester

At the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, it is a time-honored tradition to welcome the incoming student body through Cub Camp. The three-day event encourages students to connect with others and come out of their shells before classes begin.
 
The Fall 2023 Cub Camp celebrates milestones that highlight the “amazing team of leaders across our campus who challenge and support our students to learn and grow as human beings so that they’re not just ready for jobs, they’re ready for life when they leave UAFS,” Dr. Terisa Riley, Chancellor, said.
 
One milestone celebrated by Cub Camp leaders is of record-breaking proportions. The fall Cub Camp welcomed 425 campers, nearly double the typical number of students. Amaica Howard, Cub Camp director, said the turnout blew her away, and it is a clear indication that UAFS is making clear and intentional relationships with every student.
 
Amaica joked that everyone involved in Cub Camp might need some extra caffeine to keep up with all the high-energy events but come Saturday night, when the “cubs transition to Lions,” this fall’s camp will go down as another successful event to reduce those first-day jitters.
 
No jitters could be found during the Cub Camp welcoming dance party. The hundreds of students joined their groups to play icebreaker games, dance, sing, and receive a small dose of UAFS spirit.
 
Incoming student Jayden Robinson, a media communications major, said, “I love the atmosphere of Cub Camp; it’s so welcoming here.” Nursing major Hope Moss shared that the best part of Cub Camp was meeting new people, while Allan Aceves, who will be studying finance, was ready to chow down on lunch.
 
The record-breaking number of campers indicated another milestone for UAFS as the academic year is set to begin.
 
With more than 900 first-time entering students, UAFS recorded a 5% increase compared to the 2022-2023 academic year. Riley attributes the growth to the campus having a more “collegial feel” and offering a better college experience and opportunity for students who have never been before.
 
“We’re going to continue to grow,” Riley shared before joining the Cub Camp festivities.

• Tags:
• Cub Camp
• Student Life
• New Students
• New Student and Family Programs