It's the beginning of the Fall Semester and the continuation of a UHD tradition — Week of Welcome! Throughout the week, students had a chance to meet new Gators and reunite with fellow classmates.

And here are a few highlights from the week.

This year's Olympic-themed Week of Welcome, included a visit with students by Olympic boxing Bronze Medalist Marlen Esparza at the Marilyn Davies College of Business. Esparza is also the WBC Flyweight World Title Belt Holder. During the Aug. 24 event, students took photos alongside the popular boxer and received autographs.

And don't forget the food! The Dean of Students Office hosted a free breakfast with breakfast tacos and several other organizations offered "Taco Tuesday" dining opportunities.

One of the most popular events was held at the College of Sciences & Technology Building, where students received custom UHD street signs and nameplates created for them as keepsakes.

Throughout the week around campus and especially on the third floor in the One Main Building where free  giveaways, including T-shirts, masks, keychains and other Gator gear were being offered as well as a variety of fun activities.

The Student Life Center Staff and Club Teams also held its WOW Bash for students, complete with a variety of games and activities. Students also were treated to burgers, cooked by UHDPD Chief Michael Benford, who has served a chief cook and griller for the event for the past three years. Benford is turning the grill over to other capable hands next semester as he is departing UHD to become the Chief of Police for Houston Community College District. We extend our best wishes to him!