2026 SPH Fall Welcome
Join our SPH students, staff, and faculty for a day of learning, networking, and fun!
RSVP Coming Soon
Welcome to the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Fall Welcome!
The Fall Welcome Event is for new and current students enrolled in School of Public Health (SPH) programs. This event will feature information and resources specifically relevant to the SPH student experience and is an opportunity to start the academic year by connecting with fellow students, faculty, and staff across the School of Public Health, as well as partners at OHSU and PSU.
Attendees will learn how to access key student resources and support services, explore the School of Public Health’s anti-racism initiative, and begin building relationships that foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose within our community.
Light morning refreshments and lunch will be provided, and additional in-depth resource sessions will be offered online throughout the fall term (more information will be shared via email in Fall 2026).
Important Details:
Date: Monday September 21st, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM PST
(check-in starts at 9:00am; opening remarks at 9:30 am)
Location: Portland State University – Smith Memorial Student Union (SMSU)
Room 355 (Ballroom)
825 SW Broadway,
Portland, OR 97201
Getting to the event:
Fall Welcome Agenda:
- 9:00 am – Check in and refreshments
- 9:30 am – Welcome remarks and activities
- 10:15 am – Antiracism and social justice workshop
- 11:15 am – campus resource fair
- 11:30 am – Lunch, time to pick up PSU ID cards
- 1:10-3:00 pm – Educational sessions and affinity group meetings
- 3:10 – 4:30 pm – New student program breakout sessions
If you have questions and/or require accommodations for this event, contact Emily Morris Kemmerer at kemmeree@ohsu.edu.
Let Us Know You’re Coming!
Please RSVP for Fall Welcome! Your response helps us plan ahead for catering and ensure we have the right accommodations in place for all attendees.
RSVP Coming Soon
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm unable to attend the Fall Welcome, how can I still get the necessary information?
If you’re unable to attend the 2026 Fall Welcome event, we’ll make sure you still have access to everything you need.
A recording of the morning sessions, presentation slides, and links to key resources will be posted on the Fall Welcome event page after the event. We’ll also share this information in the weekly student digest email so you can easily review it at your convenience.
Is the attending the Fall Welcome required?
No, attending the Fall Welcome is not required.
However, we strongly encourage you to participate if you’re able. It’s a great opportunity to learn how to access key student resources and campus services, connect with program directors, faculty, and student support staff, and start building your community within the School of Public Health.
Can I attend for part of the day, arrive late, or leave early?
Yes! You’re welcome to attend the Fall Welcome for as much of the day as your schedule allows.
If you’re unable to join for the full event, we encourage you to review the agenda above and plan to attend the sessions that are most relevant to you.
If you miss any portions of the event, don’t worry! Recordings of the morning sessions, presentation slides, and links to key resources will be posted on the Fall Welcome event page afterward. We’ll also share this information in the weekly student digest email so you can review everything at your convenience.
Can I still attend the Fall Welcome even though I didn't RSVP?
Yes, you are still welcome to attend even if you didn’t RSVP in advance.
However, we strongly encourage students to complete the RSVP form when possible, as it helps us plan for catering and ensure we can provide any necessary accommodations for attendees.
Is there a difference between the Fall Welcome and new student orientation?
The Fall Welcome is open to all SPH student, undergraduate and graduate, new and returning, and is designed to bring our SPH community together, highlight resources, and kick off the academic year.
The OHSU New Student Orientation is required only for students whose first term is Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 and is focused on onboarding new students. Both OHSU and PSU graduate students in the School of Public Health participate in the OHSU New Student Orientation as part of their initial program requirements.
Will there be a virtual option?
A virtual option will be available for new and current students who are unable to attend in person.
If you plan to join remotely, please indicate this on the RSVP form so we can send you the Zoom link ahead of time to watch the event live.
What options are there for transportation? Where Should I Park?
If you plan to use public transportation, we recommend using the TriMet Plan Your Trip tool to map out the best route to campus.
If you’ll be driving, you can find information about available parking garages and visitor parking options on the Portland State University Parking & Transportation webpage, including locations and hourly rates around campus.
We encourage you to plan ahead to ensure a smooth arrival for the event!
Should current students attend?
Yes! The Fall Welcome event is for both new and current students.
It’s a great opportunity to revisit or get newly introduced to campus resources, stay informed about available support services, and come together as an OHSU-PSU School of Public Health community.
Fall Welcome Recording
Available after Fall Welcome
Fall Welcome Slides
Available after Fall Welcome
Resource Linktree
Available soon
Student Success Center
SPH Faculty
Program Directors
SPH Events Calendar
SPH Student CANVAS
Have Questions?
Our Student Affairs team is here to help!
Reach out anytime for guidance, clarification, or support you may need for attending our 2026 Fall Welcome event.
Contact Student Affairs