Gordon College Orientation 2026: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

TBA

Friday August 21, 2026 TBA

Find the geese! We have hidden small goose figurines all over main campus. Email us at [email protected] when you have found 10, and we'll give you a gift card to Chick-Fil-A!

Friday August 21, 2026 TBA

Community Building Event!

8:30am EDT

Mailroom Open

Friday August 21, 2026 8:30am - 4:15pm EDT

Lane Student Center, Mailroom

Stop by the mailroom to pick up any packages or mail that you've ordered. Information to open your mailbox is below.

To access your mailbox number and combo, go to Gordon 360 and click “My Profile.” In your personal information, your mailbox number and combination (hidden from view but can be revealed) are listed. We recommend saving this information to your phone now in case the website becomes inaccessible during your move-in process. If you cannot access Gordon 360 due to a hold, the same information can be found on my.gordon.edu

Please visit www.gordon.edu/mailroom for “mailbox opening instructions” as well as our current hours of operation.

Friday August 21, 2026 8:30am - 4:15pm EDT
Lane Student Center, Mailroom H5RH+5H Wenham, Massachusetts

Office Hours

9:00am EDT

Bistro 255 Open Hours

Friday August 21, 2026 9:00am - 2:00pm EDT

Jenks Library, Bistro 255

Stop by Bistro 255 in Jenks Library (3rd floor) for a specialty coffee or your choice of a variety of snacks.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:00am - 2:00pm EDT
Jenks Library, Bistro 255 H5QJ+68 Wenham, Massachusetts

Meal

9:15am EDT

ID Card Photos and Printing

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 12:00pm EDT

Jenks Library, CTS

Head over to our Center for Technology Service to get your ID photo taken and get your card printed. This is only for students who have not already printed and received their ID photo.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Jenks Library, CTS H5QJ+68 Wenham, Massachusetts

Office Hours

9:15am EDT

Residence Hall Move- In

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 1:00pm EDT

Residence Halls

Students arrive to their residence hall at their scheduled move-in times. We will have student leaders at each residence hall available to help move you into your room!

Speakers

Residence Life

Resident Advisors and Resident Directors

Gordon College is committed to the residential college experience. We believe that living in community in a residence hall can be one of the most transformative aspects of your college experience. You have the opportunity to develop relationships, learn from those who are different... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 1:00pm EDT
Residence Halls

Family and Students

9:15am EDT

Health Center Open

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:00pm EDT

Jenks Library, First Floor

If you have components of your Health Center check-in that still need to be taken care of, you will be directed to visit the Health Center staff on the first floor of Jenks Library to complete these steps. These steps must be completed before you move into your room on campus.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:00pm EDT
Jenks Library, First Floor

Office Hours

9:15am EDT

Student Financial Services Open

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:00pm EDT

Jenks Library, Student Financial Services 1st Floor

If you have a financial hold that still needs to be taken care of, you will be directed to visit Student Financial Services on the first floor of the Jenks Library. This must take place before you are able to move into your room on campus.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:00pm EDT
Jenks Library, Student Financial Services 1st Floor

Office Hours

9:15am EDT

On-Campus Shuttle!

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:30pm EDT

Dale E and Sarah Ann Fowler Campus

Call our Student Life Office@978-867-4263 and they will send you a shuttle.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:15am - 4:30pm EDT
Dale E and Sarah Ann Fowler Campus 255 Grapevine Road, Wenham, MA, USA

Office Hours

9:30am EDT

Bookstore Open

Friday August 21, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EDT

Lane Student Center, Bookstore

Gordon Bookstore is open Friday and Saturday. Great for Gordon merchandise, books (used and new), and last minute essentials.

Friday August 21, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EDT
Lane Student Center, Bookstore H5RH+7C Wenham, Massachusetts

Office Hours

10:00am EDT

Campus Connections Fair

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 2:00pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 101 (Chair's Room)

Representatives from various campus offices will be located in the KOSC Chairs Room to help students and families make connections to important campus resources. Offices represented include: Chapel, Counseling Center, Student Employment, Music Department, Academic Success Center, and so many more.

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 2:00pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 101 (Chair's Room) H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Office Hours

10:00am EDT

Academic Success Center Office Hours

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm EDT

Academic Success Center

Drop by the ASC which is our campus academic support and disability office. They facilitate the academic accommodation process for students with disabilities, as well as offer free academic support resources for all students (whether a tutor, time management support, or meeting with an academic counselor).

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm EDT
Academic Success Center

Office Hours

10:00am EDT

Welcome Tent

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm EDT

Welcome Tent (In Front of Lane)

Parents and students, please stop by the Welcome Tent once you arrive to campus! You’ll meet members of the Orientation staff and the Alumni and Parent Relations Office, who are available to assist you and answer any questions.

Friday August 21, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Welcome Tent (In Front of Lane)

Family and Students

11:00am EDT

Lunch Options on Campus

Friday August 21, 2026 11:00am - 2:00pm EDT

Lane Student Center

There will be a variety of lunch options available on campus once you arrive. Students, all of your lunch meals are provided during Welcome Week; remember to wear your Orientation nametag for access to the dining hall.

Dining venue hours:
Lane Cafe - 11am to 2pm
Gillies (Located downstairs in Lane student center) - 11am to 4pm

Lunch prices are $13 per person in Lane Cafe but free for incoming students with nametag and siblings under the age of 12.

Friday August 21, 2026 11:00am - 2:00pm EDT
Lane Student Center Lane Student Center, 255 Grapevine Rd, Wenham, MA 01984

Meal

1:30pm EDT

Commuter Student Arrival

Friday August 21, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT

Welcome Tent (In Front of Lane)

Commuter students don't need to move into campus, but we recommend arriving and checking in at the Welcome Tent on the quad to get your student ID, welcome bag, and join for the rest of the afternoon sessions.

Friday August 21, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Welcome Tent (In Front of Lane)

Commuter Only

1:30pm EDT

ID Card Photos and Printing

Friday August 21, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT

Jenks Library, CTS

Head over to our Center for Technology Service to get your ID photo taken and get your card printed. This is only for students who have not already printed and received their ID photo.

Friday August 21, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
Jenks Library, CTS H5QJ+68 Wenham, Massachusetts

Office Hours

2:00pm EDT

President’s Welcome

Friday August 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:35pm EDT

A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

President Michael Hammond will welcome parents to campus and share the College’s vision for preparing young men and women for service and leadership worldwide.

Speakers

Michael Hammond

President

An accomplished scholar and proven leader with 25 years’ experience in Christian higher education, President Mike Hammond distinguishes himself with a rare combination of academic credibility, an effective and collaborative leadership style, deep spiritual character and maturity... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 2:00pm - 2:35pm EDT
A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

Family and Students

2:45pm EDT

Faith at Gordon: Welcome to the Neighborhood

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 109

Learn about the vision for faith and formation at Gordon, and the opportunities available for students to engage with their faith on campus.

Speakers

Jon Kim

Director of Chapel and Adaptive Leadership

Jon Kim is the Director of Chapel and Adaptive Leadership. Before coming to Gordon, he served as a pastor in New England for 15 years. Jon Kim most recently served as an online pastor where he led and developed innovative approaches to ministry in digital spaces.

Sharon Ketcham

Dean, School of Ministry, Theology and Biblical Studies

Sharon Galgay Ketcham is professor of theology and Christian ministries at Gordon College in Massachusetts. She earned her Ph.D. in theology and education from Boston College. Sharon's two decades of experience in ministry include serving the local church, researching, writing, teaching... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 109 H5QJ+68 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

2:45pm EDT

Family Breakout Sessions

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center

Parents and family members are invited to participate in a variety of breakout sessions designed to introduce you to resources your students will encounter on campus. Offices represented include the Office of Advising, Academic Success Center, Counseling Center, and Initiative of Faith Learning and Living.

Students, you will spend time learning about these campus areas in greater detail during the rest of Welcome Week, so feel free to use time this morning to get some rest, continue unpacking your room, or explore campus!

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

2:45pm EDT

Mapping your Academic Experience

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 124

What can your student's academic journey look like over the next four years? Learn about the many academic opportunities available at Gordon and how faculty advisors help students explore their interests, create a personalized academic plan, and stay on track toward graduation.

Speakers

Jennifer Brink

Director of Academic Advising and First-Year Experience

Jennifer has enjoyed many years working with college students, in residence life, service learning, first-year experience and advising. She completed her graduate work in Educational Psychology at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She is particularly interested in questions... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 124 H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

2:45pm EDT

The Academic Transition: Resources for Every Student

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 127

Learn how the Academic Success Center supports every Gordon student as they transition from high school to college. Discover the resources, learning strategies, and academic support available to help students build confidence, grow as learners, and thrive throughout their college experience.

Speakers

Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center (ASC) is here to help all students. Whether you need support for a documented disability, developing study skills for a challenging class, or navigating a new culture or language, our approach is personal. No one-size-fits-all.

Our team is ready to help... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 127 H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

2:45pm EDT

What to Know About What Your Student is Going Through

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 104

Explaining the various ups and downs students often experience when transitioning to college. The session will be led by Reid Swetland, one of Gordon’s certified mental health counselors.

Speakers

Reid Swetland

Associate Dean of Campus Engagement

Prior to his work at Gordon, Reid worked as a residential counselor at treatment programs in Portsmouth, NH and Seattle, WA. Reid also worked for 12 years as an outpatient clinician for Health and Educations Services in Ipswich, MA working with all ages.

Friday August 21, 2026 2:45pm - 3:05pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 104 H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

3:15pm EDT

Faith at Gordon: Welcome to the Neighborhood

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 109

Learn about the vision for faith and formation at Gordon, and the opportunities available for students to engage with their faith on campus.

Speakers

Jon Kim

Director of Chapel and Adaptive Leadership

Sharon Ketcham

Dean, School of Ministry, Theology and Biblical Studies

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 109 H5QJ+68 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

3:15pm EDT

Mapping Your Academic Experience

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 124

Speakers

Jennifer Brink

Director of Academic Advising and First-Year Experience

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 124 H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

3:15pm EDT

The Academic Transition: Resources for Every Student

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT

Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 127

Speakers

Academic Success Center

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT
Ken Olsen Science Center, Room 127 H5QJ+R5 Wenham, Massachusetts

Breakout Session

3:15pm EDT

What to Know about What Your Student is Going Through

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT

KOSC 104 (MAC AUD)

Explaining the various ups and downs students often experience when transitioning to college. The session will be led by Reid Swetland, Associate Dean for Mental Health Outreach, one of Gordon’s certified mental health counselors.

Speakers

Reid Swetland

Associate Dean of Campus Engagement

Friday August 21, 2026 3:15pm - 3:35pm EDT
KOSC 104 (MAC AUD)

Breakout Session

3:50pm EDT

Gordon's Game Gauntlet

Friday August 21, 2026 3:50pm - 4:30pm EDT

A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

Join us for Gordon's own, original, game show! Come ready to play, because we'll be selecting a team of first-years to compete!

Speakers

Henry Gulergun

Admissions Counselor

Henry is an Admissions Counselor at Gordon College, professional hype man, and firm believer that every game night is improved by a healthy amount of friendly competition. When he's not helping students navigate the college search process, you can find him spending time with his dog... Read More →

Hiva Talanoa

Admissions Counselor

What's up, y'all! I'm Hiva, and I work in Admissions and serve as an assistant coach for our Track & Field team. I'm from Southern California, and while I'm not a Gordon alum, some of my family members are. Excited to hang with you all, and may the best crew win. Welcome to the Gordon... Read More →

Friday August 21, 2026 3:50pm - 4:30pm EDT
A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

Family and Students

4:40pm EDT

Sibling Session

Friday August 21, 2026 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT

Frost Lawn and Patio

Our admissions team will be hosting the siblings of new students on the quad with lawn games. Parents, feel free to drop your kids on your way to the parent-faculty reception!

Speakers

Gordon College Admissions

Friday August 21, 2026 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT
Frost Lawn and Patio

Family and Students

4:40pm EDT

Interactive Session: Meet your O-Crew

Friday August 21, 2026 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT

A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

Meet your O Crew leader (a current student ready to help you transition to college) and other new students in your group.

Friday August 21, 2026 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT
A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel

Student Only

4:45pm EDT

Parent & Faculty Reception

Friday August 21, 2026 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT

Quad

Get to know Gordon faculty while enjoying appetizers on the lawn in front of Ken Olsen Science Center.

Friday August 21, 2026 4:45pm - 5:30pm EDT
Quad H5QH+GV5, Wenham, MA

Parents Only

5:00pm EDT

Welcome Dinner

Friday August 21, 2026 5:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

Clarendon Commons, Outside Lane Student Center

Join us for an outdoor picnic dinner! To help with lines, students will arrive early and parents can come after the faculty session. Seating is available inside and outside. Dinner is free for all!

Friday August 21, 2026 5:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Clarendon Commons, Outside Lane Student Center H5RH+44, Wenham, MA 01984, USA

Meal

8:00pm EDT

Student Residence Hall Kickoff

Friday August 21, 2026 8:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

Residence Halls

Head back to your Residence Hall to get an introduction to your Residence Life Staff, learn about what to expect when living in community at Gordon, and have a blast celebrating the start of the year with your floor!

**Required for Residential Students**

Speakers