August 16-19, 2025
Your Journey at Delta State Begins Here!
We are excited to welcome new students to Delta State University! OKRAtation is a personalized campus experience where you will learn about campus safety, financial aid, housing, meal plans, student engagement, and various student resources and services. It’s also a chance to enjoy leisure time and fun activities.
Families play a key role in this transition and are encouraged to support their student’s participation in OKRAtation. This program is designed to help incoming students get familiar with Delta State and build strong connections. Each student is paired with a Statesmen Pioneer to guide them through the experience. While students are engaged in OKRAtation, families are welcome to explore the beautiful campus and the City of Cleveland.
We want to help our new students join in so they will be ready to stand out! Let’s Go!
Virtual OKRAtation
We highly encourage all students to physically attend OKRAtation, as this in-person experience provides an unmatched opportunity for engagement, networking, and immersion in campus life. For students who cannot physically attend OKRAtation, the Virtual OKRAtation option is available on our learning management system, Canvas. The virtual OKRAtation is a valuable and accessible alternative that ensures every student receives the foundational knowledge and connections essential for success at Delta State University.
Meet the Statesmen Pioneers
The Statesmen Pioneers are current DSU students here to welcome you to the Delta State University family. They will answer questions, be your tour guides, lead Statesmen Walks, and more! The Statesmen Pioneers are prepared and honored to welcome the newest members to the Statesmen Nation!
Special Programming
Student Engagement Fair
Monday, August 18 | 2 – 5 PM

The Student Engagement Fair grants departments, registered student clubs and organizations, and community stakeholders an opportunity to provide resources and promote student engagement. It also extends leadership and service opportunities. You are invited to register to reserve a table. Tables will be assigned on a first-come-first-served basis. You are encouraged to decorate your table, provide essential information, and novelty items. Representatives of the Office of Engagement & Advocacy will be available to answer any questions participants or attendees may have.
Parents’ Presidential Preview
Monday, August 18 | 5 – 8 PM

The Parent’s Presidential Preview is a welcoming reception to engages parents and supporters in the OKRAtation experience. This event forges a sense of community, encourages connection with university leadership, and reinforces a coordinated effort to support student success from the outset of the academic journey. As students participate in the concurrent OKRAtation Block Party, Live & Lit on Leflore, the thoughtful inclusion of families accentuates the indispensable role of parents and supporters in advancing a comprehensive student experience.
Carnival Kickback on the Quad
Monday, August 18 | 6 – 10 PM

As part of Delta State University’s OKRAtation Experience, Carnival Kickback on the Quad is an outdoor event that welcomes and immerses new students in a carnival-themed campus celebration. University departments, student clubs, and community partners are invited to participate by hosting booths with games, food, activities, and giveaways. This event promotes student engagement, showcases campus resources, and fosters collaboration across campus and the community. Participants are encouraged to create interactive, welcoming spaces that contribute to a memorable experience for incoming students and affirm DSU’s commitment to connection and inclusion.
OKRAtation 2025 Schedule
Saturday, Aug. 16
9 AM
– 5 PM
Move-In
Residence Halls
5 PM
– 8 PM
Live and Lit On Leflore
Leflore Circle
5 PM
– 8 PM
Parent’s Presidential Preview
Leflore Circle
Sunday, Aug. 17
10 AM
– 12 PM
Brunch
Young-Mauldin Cafeteria
12 PM
– 5 PM
Union Takeover
H. L. Nowell Union
5:15 PM
– 5:45 PM
Sunset Supper Social
Residence Halls
DSU Wesley Foundation
Monday, Aug. 18
8 AM
– 9 AM
OKRAtation Registration
Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC)
9:15 AM
– 9:45 AM
Presidential Presentation
Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC)
10 AM
– 12 PM
Information Session
Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC)
12:15 PM
– 1:45 PM
Group Lunch
Young-Mauldin Cafeteria
2 PM
– 5 PM
Student Engagement Fair
Forest E. Wyatt Gymnasium
3:30 PM
– 6:45 PM
Down Time & Dinner
Residence Halls
Young-Mauldin Cafeteria
6 PM
– 10 PM
Carnival Kick-Back On The Quad
Quadrangle
Tuesday, Aug. 19
7 AM
– 9:30 AM
Breakfast
Young-Mauldin Cafeteria
10 AM
– 10:45 AM
Icebreakers With Admissions
Quadrangle
11 AM
– 12:30 PM
Statesmen Walk
Campus-wide
12:45 PM
– 2 PM
Group Lunch
Young-Mauldin Cafeteria
2 PM
– 5 PM
Convocation
Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC)
8 PM
– 12 AM
Silent Disco
Kent Wyatt Hall
Wednesday, Aug. 20
5 PM
– 10 PM
Grillin’ & Chillin’ on the Quad
Quadrangle
Thursday, Aug. 21
7 PM
– 8 PM
Pancakes on the Patio
DSU Wesley Foundation
8 PM
– 12 AM
Foam Party
Quadrangle
Register for OKRAtation!
Please mark your calendars for New Student OKRAtation on Saturday, 8/16/2025 through Tuesday, 8/19/2025. OKRAtation is a customized experience to roll out the green carpet, welcoming the newest members to the Statesmen Nation!
Your attendance at OKRAtation confirms your Fall 2025 enrollment at Delta State University. You can access the Undergraduate Student Orientation Policy here. Please sign up for OKRAtation at the link below using your DSU email and password to complete registration.