Howard University welcomes newly enrolled students to its campus ahead of the start of the 2026-2027 academic year for Bison Week 2026, a week-long celebration that introduces first-time Bison to the university community.  

New, incoming students from the U.S. and around the world will make their way to Howard’s campus in Washington, D.C. for Bison Week 2026, happening Aug. 9 – 16. Throughout the week, students are invited to participant in a series of events such as the Freshman Pinning Ceremony, the D.C. Night Tour, the BisonVille Vendor Pop Up, or info sessions such as the one on federal work study and part-time job opportunities. The week is also an opportunity for new students to connect with their peers, faculty, staff, and the broader Howard community. 

Any freshman approaching their first year of college is likely wrestling with a lot of factors — living away from home for the first time, finding new friends and community, and finding themselves. To account for this, nearly every college and university has a New Student Orientation (NSO) week. So, what’s different about being a Bison? 

If someone were to write a book on becoming a Howard student, or a “Bison,” moving in would barely occupy the front cover. The locational shift is only brushing the surface of what it means to be a Bison. That’s why Bison Week was established: to orient incoming students to the culture, legacy, and excellence of the university while embracing Howard’s traditions. 

Legacy, Traditions, and Culture 

The university’s administrative leaders partner with the Howard University Student Association (HUSA) and the Undergraduate Student Assembly (UGSA) to organize the annual Bison Week events. Gabrielle Whitfield, a rising junior majoring in international affairs, serves as the chair of student engagement in HUSA for the 2026-27 academic year. Since June, Whitfield has been planning and reflecting on her own freshman week experience. 

“It’s important to start Bison week together as a group,” Whitfield said. She mentioned the “Freshman Sunrise” gathering Aug. 9 as a great way for new students to connect.  

“The Freshman Sunrise means they’ll be on The Yard, get to watch the sunrise, and be together,” she added. “I didn't get to have that experience when I was a freshman, so it was cool to bring it to life for the [2026-27] incoming class.” 

Freshmen also receive their official Howard pin at the annual Pinning Ceremony event on Aug. 9. The ceremony is preceded by the Freshman Walk, a newer Howard tradition started in 2022 by former HUSA President Nia Naylor (B.S. ‘24). The infamous All White Party, an event that’s open to all Howard students, is back this year Aug. 13. The event provides an opportunity for upperclassmen to connect with first-year students.

Students are also invited to take part in Howard’s 14th annual Day of Service event, happening Aug. 14. Modeled after the university's nationally recognized Howard University Alternative Spring Break program, Day of Service introduces service-learning to incoming students. New students and the broader campus community will participate in community service initiatives at sites across the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, embracing Howard’s motto of “truth and service.” 

The Taste of Howard event on Aug. 14 provides an opportunity for Howard’s “Divine Nine” fraternity and sorority chapters and performance organizations to introduce first-year students to the culture on campus.  

Check out the full list of events happening during Howard University’s 2026 Bison Week celebration, August 9 – 16, 2026.