They come from all 50 states and 60 different countries. They are the academic stars of their schools, but they also design clothes, raise chickens, and take home top awards in martial arts. This week the 560 new students who make up the Class of 2016 will be exploring campus for the first time as Pioneers. Learn more about the incoming class and their first days on campus.

It’s a worldwide Pio party! Join fellow parents, alumni, and friends for socializing in one of more than 50 cities around the world. It’s a great way to meet local members of the Lewis & Clark community. See a full list of cities and register here.

Global engagement is an integral part of the Lewis & Clark experience. From our long-standing tradition of overseas programs to alternative breaks, students have many opportunities to learn and serve abroad. In May, the two-year-old Lewis & Clark BuildOn chapter traveled to Malawi on a service trip they worked to fund all year. View photos and learn more about the project here.

The beginning of a new school year is a good time to review emergency procedures. The Emergency Notification System provides students with rapid notifications and instructions on what actions to take in the event of an emergency. Students are not signed up automatically, so please encourage your student to register. Through a separate process, parents are notified of emergencies via e-mail and directed to the main webpage for up-to-date information.

Fall Semester: Last day to add or drop classes is September 14. Fall Break is October 11 to 14. Registration for Spring 2013 semester is November 5 to 15. Thanksgiving Break is November 22 to 25.

Winterim 2013 applications are due by October 15.

May 2013 Graduates: Applications for May 2012 graduation must be submitted by October 15.

Pre-game Reception in Claremont, CA: Join alumni, parents, and Lewis & Clark athletics staff for a pre-game rally before the Pios take on Claremont on Saturday, September 8.

Portland Alumni and Parents Event: Meet East Asian studies and environmental studies students and faculty and learn more about their research at the beautiful Lan Su Chinese Garden on the evening of Tuesday, October 16.

Homecoming & Family Weekend: Make plans to join in the celebration October 26-28, 2012. Meet faculty, take a class at Pioneer College, cheer on the Pios at the Homecoming game, and spend time with your student.