Mane Event
Mane event orientation program
Your UAFS Journey Starts Here—and it Starts with a Roar!
Step confidently into college life with Mane Event, the official orientation experience at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, designed exclusively for incoming first-year students. This required program is your gateway to starting strong, building connections, and feeling at home before classes even begin.
What’s Mane Event All About?
Mane Event is more than an orientation—it’s your introduction to life as a UAFS Lion. Throughout the experience, you’ll gain the tools, knowledge, and connections you need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. You will:
Connect with fellow incoming students and begin building your community
Engage with current students and hear firsthand about the UAFS experience
Become familiar with campus resources and spaces so you can navigate with confidence
Participate in academic college sessions to meet your college, explore your major,
and better understand what to expect in your academic journey
Learn essential information about student support services, financial aid, scholarships,
and more
Families are Part of the Pride, Too!
At the UAFS, we recognize the important role families and supporters play in a student’s success. That’s why Mane Event includes dedicated sessions designed specifically for family members and guests.
During these sessions, you’ll hear directly from campus leaders and gain valuable insight into the resources available to support your student, including:
Financial Aid
Campus Safety & Police
Counseling & Health Services
FERPA & Third Party
Practical ways to support your student throughout their first year........and so much more!
As part of this experience, families will also have the opportunity to write a personal letter to their student. These letters will be collected and mailed in Fall semester—a meaningful surprise and source of encouragement as students navigate their first semester.
These sessions are designed to equip you with the knowledge, tools, and connection to confidently support your student every step of the way.
Bonus: Win a Scholarship!
Your future at the UAFS starts with opportunity—and Mane Event delivers. All registered students who attend will be entered for a chance to win scholarships simply by participating in orientation.
Don’t Miss Your Moment!
Mane Event is required for all incoming first-time students—and it’s more than a requirement, it’s your launchpad. This is where connections are made, confidence is built, and your journey as a UAFS Lion truly begins.
Registration
Your journey at the UAFS starts with Mane Event—now it’s time to claim your spot. Choose the 2026 session that fits your schedule and get ready to step into your Lion experience:
Tuesday, May 19
Friday, June 19
Friday, July 17
Friday, July 31
Thursday, August 6
Register here for Mane Event!
Mane Event Student Schedule
Start your UAFS journey strong! This day is packed with fun, info, and everything you need to feel ready for fall.
Mane Event Student Schedule
8:30-9:00
Check-In
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center
9:00-9:40
Welcome
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center - Reynolds Room
9:50-11:20
Academic College Sessions
Various locations on campus
11:30-12:30
Engagement & Resource Lunch
Recreation & Wellness Center (RAWC)
12:40-2:15
Campus Quest
Boreham Library & Health Science Building
2:20-2:45
Design Your First Six Weeks
Boreham Library & Health Science Building
Mane Event Guest Schedule
8:30-9:00
Check-In
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center
9:00-9:40
Welcome
Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center - Reynolds Room
9:50-11:20
Academic College Sessions
Various locations on campus
11:30-12:30
Engagement & Resource Lunch
Recreation & Wellness Center (RAWC)
12:40-1:20
Financial Aid
Health Science - Weidman
1:20-2:45
Student Support & What's Next
Health Science - Weidman