Andrew CastroChapman University’s Orange Campus sprang to life as new students and their families arrived last week for a milestone long in the making: 2026 Orientation Week. They were greeted by dozens of Orientation Leaders, the Chapman Cheer Squad, and Pete the Panther as they rolled move-in bins toward the residence halls and began a new chapter at Chapman.
Move-In Day opened a week of activities designed to welcome first-year and transfer students, help them form connections, and prepare them for campus life. Students gathered with their families for Opening Convocation, met classmates at Playfair, and celebrated the start of the academic year with fireworks. At the Candle Lighting Ceremony, one of Chapman’s most cherished traditions, the Flame of Knowledge passed to a new generation of students.
“The welcome is incredible,” said Luciana Rowland, who helped her daughter Isabella ’30 move in. “I’ve never done this before but it’s wonderful. I want to move in. I want to come to Chapman, too.”
The Chapman experience begins with a move-in bin — and plenty of helping hands. New students and their families settle into a residence hall on Move-In Day.
Chapman cheerleaders and Pete the Panther bring the energy as new students arrive on campus — and even lend a hand with the heavy lifting.
A burst of fireworks lights the sky as students celebrate the beginning of their Chapman experience.
Orientation Leaders bring plenty of energy to Playfair, where new Panthers meet their classmates, make connections, and jump into life at Chapman.
Aitken Arts Plaza fills with the glow of candlelight as students and their families take part in a cherished Chapman tradition welcoming the university’s newest Panthers.
The Flame of Knowledge passes from candle to candle, connecting Chapman’s newest students with generations of Panthers who came before them.
