Welcome Week 2026 in photos

Last week, the University of Pittsburgh welcomed the newest group of Panthers into the fold: The Class of 2030.

In a characteristically busy week, new students moved in with the help of friends and family and attended a packed schedule of orientation events across campus (with some fun and games in between, like a DJ at the Hail to Possible tent and games on the Posvar Patio for graduate and professional students).

After a hike up the hill to the New Student Convocation, students met such local luminaries as Mayor Corey O’Connor and Roc the Panther, heard from Chancellor Joan Gabel, and took their class photo in the Petersen Events Center. A pep rally and drone show sealed the deal, along with Lantern Night, one of Pitt’s longest-running traditions.

And that’s just a sample: See highlights from the week below, and don’t forget to follow @PittOfficial on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest.