Fresno State’s record enrollment record in 2007 has been swept away with a new high of 22,600 students this fall. The total includes a second record – 2,819 first-time freshmen, the biggest class in history.

Fresno State begins its 98th year of instruction Monday, Aug. 25, with Welcome Week activities to kick off the fall 2008 semester.

Bernie Vinovrksi, associate vice president of Enrollment Services, noted that the increases came as the university managed its enrollment growth in the face of budget cuts.

Students are returning this year to a new look Welcome Week, Aug. 25-29, which provides opportunities for them to become acquainted or reacquainted with the campus. It is presented by the Student Activities and Leadership Development office in the Division of Student Affairs.

Changes this year will emphasize student success initiatives by linking students to their academic programs and social networks as a way of introducing them to the learning community of Fresno State.

Academic Success Day activities Tuesday feature College and Department Representatives Fair, Major Advising Services, College and Department Open Houses, and representatives from Career Services, academic clubs and organizations fair and Learning Center Services.

On Wednesday, Involvement and Student Success Day will feature the Student Services Fair, representatives for student employment on campus, Wellness information, the Student Clubs and Organizations Fair, the University Student Union Open House, the Community Fair and the Student Services Open Houses.

Spirit Day on Thursday will promote Bulldog Pride with students wearing red. They can participate in games and win prizes, meet coaches and student-athletes and pose for photos with the school mascot, Timeout. Athletic event tickets and information on intramurals activities and the Student Recreation Center will be available.

A full schedule is available in the Welcome Week tabloid available on campus as well as online at www.csufresno.edu/studentactivities/events/welcomeweek/schedule.shtml.

To arrange interviews regarding enrollment and Welcome Week, contact Tom Uribes at 559.278.5366.