Columbus State University students return to campus Monday, August 15. In addition to a new student housing complex and renovated classroom building awaiting their return, students can look forward to a full slate of activities and events designed to celebrate the start of a new academic year.

“Cougar Kickoff events make the campus feel alive,” said Bailey Woodward, student co-chair for Cougar Kickoff. “There’s a community feel that reminds me why I fell in love with the students, faculty and campus.”

Events planned as part of the Cougar Kickoff series include:

Tuesday, August 16

· Volunteer Fair, a showcase of volunteer opportunities for students, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., clock tower

· Chill with the President, frozen yogurt with CSU President Chris Markwood, 2 - 3 p.m., clock tower

Wednesday, August 17

· Main Campus Picnic and Registered Student Organization Fair, CSU’s largest Cougar Kickoff event, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., clock tower

Thursday, August 18

· CSU Bike Ride, campus-wide ride from main campus to downtown Columbus, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., meet at Lumpkin Center

· Color Party and RiverPark Picnic, a colorful cookout on CSU’s RiverPark campus, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Woodruff Park

Friday, August 19

· Taste of Columbus, a sampling of local cuisine and Columbus attractions, 4 - 7 p.m., Lumpkin Center

· Meet the Greeks, all about Greek Life at CSU, 7 - 10 p.m., Lumpkin Center

Saturday, August 20

· CSU Day of Service, service projects across the Chattahoochee Valley, starting at 8 a.m.