Welcome Back Message from Dean of Students Matt Clifford

Welcome back to campus, Deacs! 

Wherever and however you spent your winter break, I hope it brought rest and reflection and has you ready to return to Wake Forest for the spring semester. I can’t think of a better way to start the semester than with snow falling on the Quad. I’m always struck by how quiet a blanket of snow makes the campus, but I’m eager for the buzz of students headed to class, reconnecting with friends returning from study abroad, and bringing life to Mother So Dear.

While the fall semester is full of football, welcoming our newest Wake Foresters, and the start of a new academic year, in the spring, there is a movement towards the conclusion of another segment of your journey. For our first-year students, I urge you to expand your living and learning experience now that you have a semester under your belt! Sophomores, you will officially have the opportunity to declare your major in the coming months. As you deepen your academic exploration in one area, don’t forget that the liberal arts always ask you to think broadly. We’re welcoming nearly 700 students back from experiences across the globe! I’m so excited to see our juniors reconnect and catch up with one another. And for our seniors, keep your eyes open and take in every moment of your last semester.

Support for Your Wellbeing

Remember, there are many resources available to support your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for counseling services, wellness workshops, or simply a place to relax and unwind, Wake Forest offers a variety of programs to help you succeed. Be sure to explore resources such as the Office of Wellbeing, University Counseling Center, and Campus Recreation for activities and support throughout the semester. And if you are ever in need of help, don’t hesitate to reach out—call 336-758-CARE (2273) to take that first step. Remember, no matter where you are in your journey, you’re never alone. We Are Wake, and we’re here to help you thrive!

Staying Safe at Wake Forest

Your safety is our priority. We encourage you to review the emergency communication procedures here so you’re prepared in case of an urgent situation. WakeAlert and the WakeSafe app allow the University to quickly disseminate important safety information and instructions to the entire campus community. If you haven’t already, downloading the WakeSafe app and keeping contact information up-to-date are key actions for staying informed in an emergency. 

Engagement Opportunities

As we begin the semester, we will also remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy on Monday, Jan. 20. In remembrance of his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and his enduring message of peace and equality, we encourage you to participate in the various events and activities held across campus and in our community to honor his memory. The MLK Read-In is on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This annual event promotes Dr. King’s ideals of service, equality, and non-violence through educational activities for kids K-5th grade. Volunteers are needed to lead activities and promote the joy of reading through being a child’s Reading Buddy during the event.

Don’t forget these other exciting upcoming opportunities to connect and engage:

• Two Big Four rivalry games in one week?! Circle your calendars as the Deacs take on UNC on Tuesday, Jan. 21, and Duke on Saturday, Jan. 25. The Screamin’ Demon Fan Zone is back and will open 2.5 hours prior to tip-off! Remember to check your email and visit the SDR App for information on how to enter the lottery for each game. 
• Join Student Government during their Mental Health Week from Monday, Feb. 10 to Friday, Feb. 14, featuring exciting events like a mobile ‘smash room,’ a department fair, and the Men’s Basketball Green Game on Wednesday, Feb. 12 to promote mental health awareness. Plus, don’t miss Physical Health Day with Campus Rec, offering activities like climbing, yoga, and dance classes to help you stay active and mindful! Check The Link for more details.
• Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 11, for the third annual ConsentCon, a community conversation about consent.
• Celebrate Wake Forest’s founding and reaffirm our commitment to Pro Humanitate on Thursday, Feb. 20, in Wait Chapel.
• Seniors can keep track of events designed for you and reminders at seniors.wfu.edu.

I’m excited to start another semester with you. Please connect with me as you see me on campus, and remember that help is never far away at Wake Forest. All you have to do is ask.

Warm regards,

Matt Clifford
Associate Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of Students