Hawktober: Homecoming & Family Weekend
Oct. 25-27, 2024
This year’s Homecoming and Family Weekend festivities will include beloved traditions, exciting new programming, and many opportunities to enjoy a weekend filled with alum and family connections!
Full Schedule of Events
Monday, October 21
Study Abroad 101 for Parents & Students
Noon–1 p.m., Virtual-Zoom
Interested in an educational experience overseas? University of Hartford offers everything from the traditional study abroad experience to internships, research, service-learning/volunteer, and teach abroad programs. Students can study abroad in over 50 different countries, and there are options available from one week to one year and everything in between. Education abroad can be an excellent resume booster (did you know only 11% of U.S. college students choose to study abroad?) and every UHart student is eligible to participate. You'll be able to hear directly from the International Center - join us to learn more and get your questions answered!
Tuesday, October 22 & Wednesday, October 23
No formal events are scheduled for these days. Explore campus or visit the vibrant towns of West Hartford, Bloomfield, and Hartford - UHart sits at the crossroads of all three towns.
Thursday, October 24
Rogow Distinguished Visiting Lecturer Series
5:30 p.m., Wilde Auditorium
The University of Hartford’s Rogow Distinguished Visiting Lecturer Program, in collaboration with the Office for Inclusive Excellence and Belonging, presents “Preserving Democracy,” with Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Thursday, October 24, at 5:30 p.m. in Wilde Auditorium.
Mainstage Musical Performance: Something Rotten!
7:30–10 p.m., Lincoln Theater
Tickets are on sale now! Click here to purchase directly from the Hartt Box Office.
Helping Hawks Day of Service
9 a.m.–1 p.m., Commons Dining Hall
Join the Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion for our annual Helping Hawks Day of Service. Volunteer sites will be located in the Greater Hartford Area. Transportation and a free t-shirt will be provided to all participants. This service opportunity is open to students, alum, faculty and staff; we look forward to bettering our community together.
Check-in will be 8:30 am in Hawk Lounge. Contact Maliqa Mosley-Williams at mosleywil@9q0kt.com with questions.
A Taste of Home
11 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Commons Dining Hall
Visit us at Commons Dining Hall for a chance to see your family recipe highlighted at the Taste of Home lunch! Aramark will be featuring 8-12 UHart family dishes, submitted by UHart students and their families.
To enter your family dish for consideration, submit your recipe to taste@9q0kt.com by October 7, 2024.
Hispanic & Latino Student Association Luncheon
1 p.m., Gengras Student Union, Room 331
The Hispanic & Latino Student Association (HLSA) would like to invite parents, students, and alumni to join us for a complimentary Latino lunch. Meet our board members, learn about what HLSA has to offer, and find out what life is like as a Hispanic or Latinx student on campus. Esperamos verlos aquí!
Joseloff Gallery Presents: Pathways: HAS Faculty Show
1–5 p.m., Joseloff Gallery, Harry Jack Gray Center
This exhibition unveils the latest creations from the esteemed faculty of the Hartford Art School. The artwork, while diverse in materials, subject matter, and style, represents a collective commitment to curiosity, process, and making. From porcelain to woodcut prints and even augmented reality, the exhibition paints a rich portrait of the multiple creative realms explored by HAS faculty members.
Pathways Jazz Night
4:30–6 p.m., Joseloff Gallery
Join faculty from the Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz for an evening of music inspired by artwork on view in Pathways: HAS Faculty Show. Musicians include Matthew DeChamplain on piano, Steve Porter on upright bass and Rich Goldstein on guitar. Enjoy live jazz and an opportunity to hear from the faculty about the melodies that they have chosen in response to the exhibition.
Shabbat Service + Dinner
5:15 p.m. Service, University Commons, Room 116/118
6 p.m. Dinner, University Commons, Room 116/118
Alumni, students, and their parents are invited to attend a Shabbat service, followed by a delicious catered dinner. Ticketed event.
Anchor Awards Ceremony
7:30–9 p.m., Wilde Auditorium
UHart's annual awards event to celebrate the brilliance, success and accomplishments of our talented 2024 award recipients. Alumni, friends, and family welcome
Young Alum: Brewery Event
7:30–9 p.m., Elicit Brewing Co., Manchester, CT
Recent grads – reconnect over apps and a drink at Elicit Brewing Co. in Manchester, CT.
Mainstage Musical Performance: Something Rotten!
7:30–10 p.m., Lincoln Theater
Tickets are on sale now! Click here to purchase directly from the Hartt Box Office.
UHart Parents' Breakfast Social
8:30–10 a.m., GSU Hawk Lounge
Hosted by the Director of Parent Engagement & Philanthropy and UHart's Parent Council, we invite you to join fellow parents for a casual meet and greet over a catered breakfast. Connect with other families going through a similar UHart experience and enjoy great conversation. Mingle with campus leadership and chat with UHart staff who can answer your questions on the student experience and learn ways in which you can stay more connected as a proud parent!.
Archives and Special Collections Pop-Up Exhibit
10 a.m.–4 p.m., Harrison Libraries, KF Room
The exhibit will feature items covering the history of the University and its schools—with a special focus on the former presidents of the University—as well as select materials from various special collections.
Presidential Inauguration
10–11:30 a.m., Lincoln Theater
Witness the Inauguration of President Lawrence P. Ward as the University’s 7th President.
Register here to attend the inauguration.
Presidential Inauguration Reception
11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Hursey Center
Celebrate President Lawrence P. Ward’s inauguration with the UHart community.
Register here to attend the reception.
HawktoberFest
11:30 a.m–2 p.m., Athletic Fields/behind Chase Arena
$15 tickets; UHart students free
Enjoy a delicious meal with fellow alumni, students, parents, and friends. Enjoy food trucks, beer garden, student performances, music, games and activities for the entire family, and more!
Alumni Art Marketplace: Celebrating Creativity and Connections
11:30 a.m–2 p.m., Athletic Fields/behind Chase Arena
All are invited to the Alumni Art Marketplace, a vibrant and dynamic gathering that celebrates the artistic talents of our alumni. Enjoy a captivating space for alumni artists to showcase and sell their creations and connect with art enthusiasts, collectors, and the wider community.
Campus Tours: What's New from the Hawk's View
Noon, Tours depart from Bates House
Red Key Society Tour guides will lead guests through the various upgrades to campus over the last 10 years. This will include touring the Auerbach Hall addition, the Gengras Student Union, the Harrison Libraries, The Hursey Center for Advanced Engineering & Health Sciences, and more. Join us for an hour-long walking tour of the spaces that have allowed the University of Hartford to continue its growth and success for its students!
Women's Soccer vs. Wentworth Institute of Technology
12 p.m., Al-Marzook Field
Cheer on the 2024 Women's Soccer Team as they compete against Wentworth Institute of Technology!
Study Abroad 101 for Parents & Students
1–2 p.m., Mali Auditorium (201), Dana Hall
Interested in an educational experience overseas? University of Hartford offers everything from the traditional study abroad experience to internships, research, service-learning/volunteer, and teach abroad programs. Students can study abroad in over 50 different countries, and there are options available from one week to one year and everything in between. Education abroad can be an excellent resume booster (did you know only 11% of U.S. college students choose to study abroad?) and every UHart student is eligible to participate. You'll be able to hear directly from the International Center and study abroad alumni - join us to learn more and get your questions answered!
Joseloff Gallery Presents: Pathways: Hartford Art School Faculty Show
1–5 p.m., Joseloff Gallery, Harry Jack Gray Center
This exhibition unveils the latest creations from the esteemed faculty of the Hartford Art School. The artwork, while diverse in materials, subject matter, and style, represents a collective commitment to curiosity, process, and making. From porcelain to woodcut prints and even augmented reality, the exhibition paints a rich portrait of the multiple creative realms explored by HAS faculty members.
Mainstage Musical Performance: Something Rotten!
2–4:30 p.m., Lincoln Theater
Tickets are on sale now! Click here to purchase directly from the Hartt Box Office.
Grant Family Track & Field Ribbon Cutting
2:30–3 p.m., Grant Family Track & Field
Join us in the ribbon cutting for the new track.
Register here to attend the ribbon cutting.
Stadium Party
3–5 p.m., Athletics Fields/behind Chase Arena
Enjoy traditional tailgate style snacks and cheer on the Men's Soccer Team as they play Wentworth Institute of Technology.
Men's Soccer vs. Wentworth Institute of Technology
4–6 p.m., Al-Marzook Field
Cheer on the 2024 Men’s Soccer Team as they compete against WIT!
Student Television Network – Studio Tour & Alumni Newscast
4:15–5:30 p.m., TV Studio, Abrahms Hall
Take a student-led tour of the TV studio. Stick around and watch the magic happen at the 5:00 pm alumni-anchored newscast.
Welcome New Dean Ivanic and Happy Retirement Dr. Lofink!
4:30–6:30 p.m., GSU Hawk Lounge
Meet new Dean Aarti Ivanic, say farewell to Dr. Celia Lofink, and mingle with fellow Barney alums!
50(ish) Reunion + The Return of The Pub
5–6 p.m. - Class of 1973, GSU South Cafe
6–8 p.m. - Open to all, GSU South Cafe
The Pub is coming back, and we hope you are too! Join us for a special 50(ish) reunion celebration with the Class of 1974, then celebrate Hawktober weekend like it's October of '74 -- with UHart friends, beer, music, trivia, and bar bites in the student union.
This event is free to attend and will have a cash bar.
For more information on the 50(ish) reunion click here.
Black Student Union Annual Alumni and Parents Dinner
5 p.m., 1877 Club + Rotunda
Join the Black Student Union (BSU) for the Annual Alumni and Parents Dinner as we conclude our yearlong celebration of the 60th anniversary of the BSU.
Semiformal attire, tickets are required.
School of Communication Alumni Reception
5–7 p.m., Hursey Center, Hartford Healthcare Commons
School of Communication alumni are invited to attend a reception where you can catch up with other graduates and faculty. Complementary appetizers and beverages provided.
The Halloween Concert with the Hartt Orchestra and Hartt Wind Ensemble
7:30 p.m., Milard Auditorium
Free and open to the public, as Hartt's Halloween treat for families and all in the Greater Hartford community.
Mainstage Musical Performance: Something Rotten
7:30–10 p.m., Lincoln Theater
Tickets are on sale now! Click here to purchase directly from the Hartt Box Office.
Hartford Track and Field 5K
8 a.m. - Check in opens
9 a.m. - Race begins
Starts and ends at Chase Arena
Run, walk, or dance your way through campus alongside UHart alumni, students, families, and friends. Race registration includes a 5K t-shirt and race bib; proceeds support our Hartford Track and Field team.
Race starts at 9 a.m. in front of the Chase Arena (parking available); t-shirts and race bibs will be distributed to runners beginning at 8 a.m. New this year: A 100M dash for our youngest Hawks (10 and under)!
Click here to register for the 5K.
Jazz Brunch
11 a.m.–1 p.m., Cafe, Gengras Student Union
Tickets required
Join fellow alumni, parents and students for everyone’s favorite part of Hawktober weekend: the annual Jazz Brunch. This year, we are thrilled to return to campus with brunch accompanied by lively jazz music, featuring alumna and recording artist Latanya Farrell M'97, M'98. Tickets are $40/person and includes brunch, your first beverage, and all the smooth jazz you can handle. Space is limited.
Mainstage Musical Performance: Something Rotten!
3–5:30 p.m., Lincoln Theater
Tickets are on sale now! Click here to purchase directly from the Hartt Box Office.
Sunday Service
5–7:30 p.m., Konover
Catholic Campus Ministry invites students, alumni, parents, and families to attend Roman Catholic Mass on at 5 p.m. in Konover. A cookout after the service will follow at the Catholic Campus Campus Ministry Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register to attend Hawktober?
Hawktober registration is open!
Is there a registration deadline?
Hawktober Weekend pre-registration will remain open until Wednesday, October 23. After that date, guests are welcome to attend as walk-ins.
Do I have to pre-register to attend Hawktober?
Pre-registration is not required to attend Hawktober, but it is highly recommended. Some Hawktober events are ticketed and have limited space, so be sure to secure your spot by pre-registering. Walk-ins are always welcome during Hawktober Weekend, as long as events have open capacity.
How to I purchase tickets to see Something Rotten?
Tickets are available through the Box Office.
Where do I sign up for the 5K Walk/Run?
Register online!
How do I get to campus?
If you are driving to the University of Hartford, check out our recommended routes from various directions.
Where should I park on campus?
The University of Hartford has plenty of parking available for our Hawktober Weekend guests. See our interactive parking map to review all of your options.
What are the best hotel options?
The University of Hartford has partnered with local hotels to offer you discounted rates. View options and make reservations online.
Where can I find a map of campus?
The University of Hartford website has an interactive map of campus.
Where can I get food and drink?
Many of our Hawktober Weekend events will have food and drink offerings, including the Parents Breakfast, Hawktoberfest, Stadium Party, Jazz Brunch, and more! Additional locations where you can purchase food and beverage will be available throughout the weekend.
Will the campus store be open?
The campus store will be open Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The campus store is located in Harry Jack Gray Center and is offering a 10% discount on all purchases made during Hawktober Weekend.
Do we have your email correct?
All Hawktober communication will be sent electronically, so make sure to update your contact information to receive the latest and greatest about our Homecoming and Family weekend.
Make an UpdateReturning Favorites
Friday, October 25
- HLSA Luncheon
- Anchor Awards Celebration
Saturday, October 26
- Parent Breakfast and Networking
- HAS Gallery tour and Faculty Art Show
- Campus Tours
- Alumni Art Marketplace
- 50(ish) Reunion and the return of The Pub
- BSU Dinner
- School of Communications Networking Event
Sunday, October 27
- Hawktober 5K
- Jazz Brunch
Fresh & New Hawk Fun
- Something Rotten! the musical at Lincoln Theater, playing all weekend
Friday, October 25
- Young Alum Happy Hour at local brewery
Saturday, October 26
- Homecoming Celebration! Including Hawktoberfest food trucks, beer tent, family fun zone and more at our women’s (noon) and men’s (4 p.m.) soccer games
- Ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Grant Family Track and Field
- Barney School Networking Event, featuring new dean Aarti S. Ivanic and beloved advisor Celia Lofink
- Drinks at The Pub
Sunday, October 27
- Alum-led Yoga and smoothies