University at Buffalo (UB)
A True Blue Year: 2021-22
Divisional Highlights: Celebrating a Year of Accomplishments
A Virtual Start
As virtual orientation continued for the second consecutive year, members of the Orientation, Transition and Parent Programs team came up with new and unique ways to interact with incoming students. The months of July and early August saw Orientation leaders connect virtually with thousands of incoming UB students in preparation for the fall semester.
An Increased Emphasis on Wellness Support
In December, the division launched a comprehensive health and wellness initiative, Taking Care, which emphasized health promotion, emotional and mental support and the delivery of high-quality medical services.
Let the Games Begin
Buffalo Esports emerged on the scene in late 2020 and is a member of the Esports Collegiate Conference, competing in highly popular games such as Overwatch, League of Legends and Rocket League.
Student Life placed third overall during UB’s annual Giving Day, unlocking a $2,500 challenge gift from President Tripathi.
More Than Just a Name Change
In March, the Career Design Center officially re-branded, establishing a bold new direction that challenges students to imagine and design meaningful lives and careers.
From a vibrant return to campus, to a renewed sense of True Blue spirit, the 2021-22 academic year truly provided both staff and students alike with a reason to celebrate.
Comeback Story: The Interlocking UB
1,519 students participated in the 17th year of this iconic tradition. Student Life celebrated its triumphant in-person return to UB Stadium during Welcome Weekend.
Opening the Doors to the World
Reflective of its globally diverse community and its many cultures, One World Café opened in January 2022 as a testament to the university’s collective spirit of openness and inclusivity. Situated at one of the North Campus’s busiest crossroads and phase three of the Heart of the Campus Master Plan, this 53,500 square-foot destination offers students and members of the campus community a chance to socialize, while sharing authentically prepared global cuisine.
The Future Wellness of Our Students
As we strive to meet UB’s academic and research aspirations, there is a growing need to provide our students with access to the latest state-of-the-art physical spaces. Health Services moved to a new location on Maple Road near the North Campus in the fall semester of 2022.
The multiyear relocation of Health Services will effectively serve students until a more holistic solution is delivered in the form of a Recreation and Wellness Center already in its planning stages.
The Century Celebration
The Thunder of the East Marching Band celebrated 100 years of tradition with an alumni event for past, current and future Bulls during Homecoming Weekend.
Student Life expanded its digital content reach, achieving more than 2.4 million page views on student facing websites.
Celebrating Our Diversity
UB’s Intercultural and Diversity Center (IDC) provides a welcoming space for students, while simultaneously coordinating educational programs and cultural events aimed to broaden student perspectives and promote inclusion, equity and social justice.
With Gratitude
The newly installed Gratitude Tree in the Student Union provided students the opportunity to express their appreciation in the form of hand written notes. Gratitude leaves were continually added to the tree during the semester, providing a unique backdrop to a campus community thankful for their student experience.
Launching Bulls into the Future
As May ushered in the 175th commencement season, Student Life staff actively engaged graduating students in Countdown to Commencement activities, including a senior toast.
True Blue Moments
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