MEDIA RELEASE – Sept. 6, 2026 — R0077

Chloe Giachalis was drawn to Brock University for its renowned Sport Management program, but what ultimately solidified her decision was simple: Brock felt like home.

“It’s so homey, with good people and a good vibe,” she said on Sunday, Sept. 6 while preparing to move into one of the University’s residences with the help of parents Marcie and Gus Giachalis and grandmother Dale Buchanan.

It was a special day for the Giachalis family — all proudly sporting their Brock gear — as they helped their only child begin this next chapter in her educational journey.

The big step was met with excitement from mom Marcie, who found comfort in all she’s learned about the University in the lead-up to the day.

“Brock has a phenomenal reputation academically, especially in Sport Management, and for its people,” she said. “There’s a feeling of inclusiveness as opposed to feeling like you’re just a number like you might at some larger schools.”

Staff and volunteers were on hand throughout the weekend to ensure families felt supported and welcomed as more than 2,700 students moved into their homes away from home for the year.

“This is a big moment in the lives of our students and their families. Our job is to make sure they know there is a whole campus community behind them every step of the way as this new adventure begins,” said Cindy Chernish, Director, Housing Services.

To help grow those connections for students living on and off campus, the University expanded on its annual residence move-in, hosting its inaugural Welcome Weekend celebration on Saturday, Sept. 5 and Sunday, Sept. 6.

The weekend included live music, food trucks and lawn games to bring students and their families together as well as events highlighting campus resources that support a successful start to the academic year.

“Whether students are coming to Brock for the first time or returning for their final year, we want them to feel supported in — and excited for — what comes next,” said Brad Clarke, Associate Vice-President, Students. “Welcome Weekend is about building that campus connection, ensuring students are equipped with the resources they need to succeed and helping them to understand what being part of the Brock family really means.”

Welcome Weekend is a precursor to the upcoming Welcome Week filled with orientation and social activities, varsity sports events, live music and more. Classes for the Fall Term begin on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

*Maryanne St. Denis, Associate Director, Strategic Communications, Brock University, [email protected] or 905-246-0256

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