Something new for NSO 2016: Panthers for Change
New Student Orientation (NSO) is an annual tradition at UPEI to help incoming students get their bearings at their new school and put them on the path to success. NSO 2016 aims to build healthy connections between students and the people and places that will impact their first-year experience. To this end, UPEI is introducing a new fundraising initiative called Panthers for Change, which will help incoming students feel more connected by exposing them to more of the Island community.
Throughout the four days of NSO, students will raise money for four local charities—the PEI Humane Society, the Alzheimer’s Society of PEI, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and PEI Family Violence Prevention Services. They will also be meeting representatives from each group and learning about the local initiatives these charitable organizations have underway. This will culminate in a full day of fundraising throughout Charlottetown on Tuesday, September 6.
“Ultimately it came down to what the purpose for new student orientation is—an opportunity for our students to build healthy connections and to develop those connections on campus and in the larger community,” said NSO co-ordinator Tayte Willows. “We wanted to provide them with the chance to connect with groups working here on PEI, and doing work that they can stay connected to throughout the rest of their time in university.”
To further the connection, each of the groups has committed to keeping students informed of volunteer opportunities throughout the year. This will encourage students to continue to share their talents and passions in ways that improve our Island community. It will by extension help to develop in our students a healthy connection to the community and the people they are serving.
Panthers for Change replaces the annual Shinerama tradition at UPEI. UPEI is proud of the more than $300,000 our students have raised over the years in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. UPEI encourages all Panthers, past and present, to continue their relationship with this outstanding organization.
The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.
