Students bounce around inflatables

To conclude the first day of classes for the fall 2025 semester, the Troy University Activities Council (UAC) and the Welcome Week Committee collaborated to organize an evening of outdoor activities. 

Emma Wadsen photo

Students play a round of football and basketball at Welcome Week's Inflatables on the Quad.

UAC set up a few inflatable attractions around the quad for students to enjoy while passing by. Free ice cream, souvenir cups and water were also made available. 

“A few new students have been coming out, so I hope that they network and get to know the people that were here before them,” said UAC Secretary and Welcome Week Co-Director Javius Pruitt, who is a junior early childhood education major from Birmingham, Alabama. “Getting to know others can help them get involved in all of the great organizations that we have on this campus.” 

This event also served as a chance for students to meet and get to know their new UAC Executive Board.  

“It's important to hold these events to give students a sense of community,” said UAC President Jamie Parker, who is a junior nursing major from Millbrook, Alabama. “While just having a break from the serious schoolwork that they have to tackle every day with inflatables on the quad, we also want to communicate with other students through this event so they can make friendships that will last forever.” 

Some of the inflatables set up included basketball, football and gladiator-style jousting. Music created a playful and light ambience while student interactions continued through the night.  

“It was very fun,” said Heather Gladwell, a freshman studio art major from Troy, Alabama. “I fell off a bunch of times in the gladiator jousting inflatable, but it was still very fun. 

“I plan on going to future events like these because of the community.” 

UAC and the Welcome Week Committee will continue to work together throughout the rest of the week for more shared events. 

DeAndre Arnold photo

Students play a game of gladiator-style jousting.

“We always want to make sure to hold some events annually each semester since students always show up for them, and there is always a great time,” Parker said. “Students should definitely start getting involved early around this time. 

“It's nice to meet new people and just have fun while on campus.” 

To keep up with the list of upcoming activities, visit @troyuac and @troyuniversitywelcomeweek on Instagram.