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September 20, 2024

UW’s incoming class welcomed at New Student Convocation

students celebrating

Students attend UW’s Convocation ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.University of Washington

The University of Washington welcomed its incoming class and their families on Sunday at the University’s annual New Student Convocation, which was held in Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion.

The incoming class is expected to consist of about 7,150 students. Official information about class size and make up is announced later in the quarter.

Louisa Mackenzie, associate professor, Comparative History of Ideas, was the featured speaker. A Scottish immigrant and first-generation college grad, Mackenzie, who uses they/she pronouns, joined the UW in 2002. In 2024, they received the University’s Distinguished Teaching Award, given to faculty who exemplify a commitment to inclusive teaching and serve as mentors to other faculty.

For journalists: B-roll, soundbites and video of the W formation available here.

UW President Ana Mari Cauce, members of the Board of Regents, the deans of the 16 schools and colleges, and faculty members were  in attendance.

UW Bothell and UW Tacoma are also welcomed students back to campus with a string of activities, including Convocation ceremonies.

Husky Kickoff was held at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium, where incoming students participated in the anticipated annual tradition of forming a giant block “W” on the field.

Fast facts:

  • Preliminary figures show the incoming freshman class is expected to be about 7,150 students.
  • Around 4,625 freshmen will be from Washington state.
  • An additional 1,550 transfer students are expected to arrive this fall, about 1,300 of whom will be from Washington community colleges.
  • UW Bothell and UW Tacoma also welcomed their incoming classes with about 1,170 and 700 freshmen, and about 630 and 715 transfer students expected, respectively.
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