WSU Vancouver Welcomes Students With Annual Wave The Flag Tradition (Photo) - 08/03/26
WHEN
7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24
WHERE
Washington State University Vancouver
14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave.
Vancouver, WA 98686
WHAT
As the first school in Southwest Washington to begin the fall semester, Washington State University Vancouver will welcome students back to campus with its annual Wave the Flag celebration on the first day of classes.
Throughout the day, faculty, staff, alumni and community supporters will wave Cougar flags at key campus entrances, greeting students as they arrive for the start of the 2026/27 academic year. The tradition creates a festive atmosphere and demonstrates the university's commitment to student success from day one.
WHO
WSU Vancouver faculty, staff, alumni, students and community leaders
Executive Vice President for WSU Statewide Campuses Sandra Haynes will wave the Cougar flag at the campus' main entrance from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m.
WHY IT'S NEWSWORTHY
- WSU Vancouver is the first school in the region to start fall classes.
- Hundreds of students will arrive on campus for the first day of the academic year.
- Wave the Flag is a longstanding WSU tradition that showcases Cougar pride and community support.
- The event offers strong visuals during the back-to-school season.
PHOTO and VIDEO OPPORTUNITIES
- Faculty, staff, alumni and community members enthusiastically wearing Cougar gear and waving Cougar flags
- Students arriving for their first day of fall classes
- Executive Vice President for WSU Statewide Campuses Sandra Haynes greeting students and participating in the celebration
- Wide campus scenes featuring Cougar flags, WSU colors and first-day energy
INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES
- Executive Vice President for WSU Statewide Campuses Sandra Haynes
- New and returning students
- Faculty and staff participating in the tradition
About WSU Vancouver
WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations.
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