Family Orientation & Move-in Day 2026
We are excited to welcome you and your student to Pitzer College’s Class of 2030!
Family Orientation & Move-in Day takes place on Saturday, August 22, 2026. This day marks the beginning of your student’s journey and is designed to help you feel informed, supported, and connected as your family transitions into the Pitzer community.
This day is both a celebration and an opportunity to learn more about the people, resources, and experiences that will shape your student’s time at Pitzer.
It also kicks off the week-long New Student Orientation for new students.
Family Orientation & Move-in Day 2026 Schedule
9–11 a.m. Family Leadership Council (FLC) Meeting
Broad Center Performance Space
2–4 p.m. Alumni Board (AB) Meeting
Broad Center Performance Space
8 a.m.–Noon Registration
GSC MPR
Move-in Time Slots
8:00 - 8:45 a.m.: S-Z and new PP Athletes
8:45 - 9:30 a.m.: M-R
9:30 - 10:15 a.m.: G-L
10:15 - 11:00 a.m.: A-F
8 a.m.–5 p.m. Family and Friends Lounge and Pitzer Store
McConnell Center, Living Room
10:30–11:15 a.m. Athletics Information Session for Winter and Spring Athletes
CARW, Voelkel Gymnasium
Pick-up is 10–10:15 a.m. at Avery Gates.
10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. New Student Gift from Alumni Association
Benson Auditorium Atrium
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Connection Café (Specialty Coffee Cart)
Scott Courtyard
Noon–1:30 p.m. Family Welcome Lunch
McConnell Center, Dining Hall, Overflow: Founders Room
1:45–3 p.m. Insights to Life at Pitzer
Benson Auditorium, Overflow seating: Fletcher Hall 104, 106, 110, 112 and Broad Hall 110, 207, 210, 214
1:45–3 p.m. Spanish Speaking Session, Información acerca de la vida en Pitzer
Broad Hall, Language Lab
3:15–4:15 p.m. FirstGen Student & Family Reception
GSC Terrace
3:45–4:45 p.m. Resource Fair
GSC MPR and Terrace
4:45–5:50 p.m. Community Dinner
Commencement Plaza & Mounds
5:50–6:15 p.m. Family Farewell Programming
Mounds & Apron
6:15 p.m. Family Farewell
Commencement Plaza
6:30–8 p.m. Cheers & Tears Reception
President's Residence
Helpful Information
Family Orientation & Move-in Day is designed to be both structured and welcoming, with a mix of logistical support, community-building opportunities, and meaningful programming throughout the day.
A confirmed schedule of events will be sent to you later this summer, but you can expect:
- Staggered move-in and check-in times to help ensure a smooth arrival experience
- A central welcome and registration area to get oriented and receive materials
- A Family & Friends Lounge where you can relax, connect, and visit the campus store
- Opportunities to pick up welcome gifts and resources for new students
- A Family Welcome Lunch to gather as a community
- An afternoon program featuring campus partners and key resources, such as
academic advising, career services, study abroad, and student support services - A Resource Fair to explore campus offices and opportunities
- A Community Dinner and closing programming, followed by a special farewell
moment for families
There will also be optional sessions and informal opportunities to connect, including affinity-based gatherings and spaces to meet members of your new Pitzer Community!
Students will receive their housing assignment and detailed move-in instructions in advance of arrival.
Move-in will include:
- A designated check-in location on campus
- Assigned arrival windows to help manage traffic and flow
- Support from orientation staff and student volunteers throughout the process
- Additional details, including check-in location, arrival times, and parking information, will
be shared later this summer.
Following Move-in Day, students will participate in New Student Orientation (NSO), a required program designed to help them build community and prepare for academic and campus life.
Orientation programming typically includes:
- Academic advising and course preparation
- Introductions to campus resources and support services
- Social and community-building activities
- Orientation Adventures to explore the campus and the surrounding area
Orientation is an important part of helping students feel confident, connected, and ready for the semester ahead.
If you are traveling to campus, we recommend:
- Booking accommodations early
- Allowing extra time for arrival and parking
- Wearing comfortable clothing for walking and warm weather
More detailed travel guidance will be shared throughout the summer.
Stay Connected!
You will receive regular email updates throughout the summer with important information, deadlines, and next steps. If your contact information has changed, please let us know.
Check Back Often!
This page will be updated with additional details as they are confirmed, including:
- The full Family Orientation schedule for the day
- Check-in/arrival times
- Recommended travel and hotel accommodations
- Campus maps and parking information
- Family-specific sessions & resources