Savannah State University Welcomes Class of 2030 During Move-In Day, Aug. 8

Savannah State University (SSU) will welcome 800 freshmen during Fall 2026 Move-In Day on Saturday, Aug. 8. Local media are invited to capture b-roll, photography, and interviews as students and families arrive and settle into campus housing.

This year, the university is expanding its traditional orientation into a full week of immersive programming running Aug. 8–16. The schedule is designed to build social connections, introduce students to campus living, and prepare them for college-level academics prior to the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 17.

“New Student Orientation is designed to assist first-year, transfer, and commuter students with their academic and social transition to Savannah State,” said Desmond Stowe, Assistant Dean of Students. “The workshops and activities throughout the week create an environment that prepares incoming students for both academic achievement and campus leadership.”

The expanded programming directly aligns with the top priority of SSU’s strategic plan, TheUproar2030, which focuses on student success and cultivating an exceptional campus experience that fosters belonging, achievement, and lifelong connections.

“Our priority is ensuring that every new Tiger feels fully supported from the moment they step onto campus,” said Dr. Dixon, Vice President of Enrollment Management, Student Affairs, and Marketing. “Move-In Day marks the beginning of a transformative journey, and our weeklong orientation gives the Class of 2030 the foundational tools, resources, and community to thrive here.”

Freshman move-in takes place Saturday, Aug. 8, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 100 campus volunteers—including SSU Tiger Football student-athletes, SSU Marching Band members, Student Orientation Leaders (SOLs), and University Housing staff—will be on hand to assist families with unloading vehicles and moving into dormitories.

Media Opportunities & Event Logistics
• Peak Activity Window: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Visuals: Families unloading vehicles, dorm room setups, spirit teams and student-athletes assisting families, and orientation welcome events.
• Interviews: SSU administrative leadership, student volunteers, incoming freshmen, and parents will be available for interviews on site or in advance by contacting [email protected].
• Campus Navigation: Interactive media and campus map accessible at savannahstate.edu/map.

Key Timeline
• Move-In Day & Parent Orientation Program: August 8–9
• Expanded New Student Orientation: August 8–16
• Upperclassmen Move-in Date: August 13
• First Day of Fall Classes: August 17