Message regarding Homecoming weekend

Sept. 23, 2022

Dear Laurier students,

Welcome back! We are heading into our third week of classes, and the positive energy on campus is definitely a welcome change from two years of pandemic disruptions. I hope that during this time you have been able to make some new friends, join a club, and immerse yourself in the outstanding student experience Laurier is known for.

This weekend is Laurier’s Homecoming – a time for us to welcome our Hawks home and celebrate our purple and gold pride. This means coming together as a community in a safe, inclusive and respectful manner.

As you make plans to celebrate Homecoming, I want to remind you to make your safety and the safety of others a top priority.

While most students are mindful of our responsibilities in the community, a recent large unsanctioned gathering caused injuries, damaged a vehicle and put students and neighbours at risk. These actions do not represent Laurier and our students. Anyone participating in this kind of behaviour could face consequences, including their suspension or expulsion, in addition to criminal charges and fines.

We all want this weekend to be a positive experience. In our effort to help ensure our students and neighbours are safe, you will notice an increased police presence on campus and in nearby neighbourhoods. Please be respectful to all first responders, as they are here to help you. And be aware that there will also be a zero-guest policy in student residences and wristband requirements for those living in residences and university-owned apartments.

I know the majority of our students act in a safe and respectful manner and take great pride in being part of the Laurier community and the broader communities where they live. Thank you for keeping each other and our neighbours top of mind.

I encourage everyone to review our Safety Tips, and to think about the impact of your choices.

As you gather this weekend to celebrate being a Golden Hawk, hit the stadium – not the street – and attend an organized Homecoming event with friends. Join your fellow Hawks in maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful community environment. And connect with friends, new and old, to make lasting memories in a way that shines a light on everything that is Golden about Laurier.

Ivan Joseph
Vice-president: Student Affairs