The University of Kentucky is a wildly powerful and supportive community. Our people are what make this institution such an incredible place. We invite you to be part of welcoming the Class of 2029 to their new Kentucky home during Big Blue Move-In August 17-20. Our faculty and staff are vital in making our students feel welcome from the moment they arrive on campus.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
As members of the university’s faculty and staff, you know what it means to put students first because you do it every day. Big Blue Move-In is an opportunity for the university to leave a lasting first impression on our newest Wildcats and their families. A warm Wildcat welcome paired with the best of Bluegrass hospitality can significantly impact a student’s overall experience and reaffirm their decision to attend the University of Kentucky. Volunteering during move-in is a great way to get energized for the new academic year ahead and be reminded of the purpose behind what we do at UK everyday – our students.
Faculty and staff completing one 3-hour volunteer shift during Big Blue Move-In 2025:
LUNCH IS ON US!
- All volunteers will receive a meal card to use at The 90 or Champions Kitchen during their shift(s). Enjoy a complimentary meal as a small token of our appreciation!
FREE T-SHIRTS!
- You will be able to show your UK pride and stand out during Big Blue Move-In with an exclusive Big Blue Move-In volunteer T-shirt. Wear it proudly as you help new students and their families on move-in day.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING AS A VOLUNTEER?
As a member of the Wildcat Welcome Team, your primary task will be offering a friendly face to students and their families as they arrive on campus. Your job is to smile, provide warm greetings and offer directions to anyone who appears lost or uncertain. Shifts will be available for the following positions:
Move-In Volunteer Roles
Building Leader (1 per building)
- Manages the operations for an individual residence hall.
- Ensure operations are set up at least one hour prior to the first move-in appointment.
- Coordinates with Area Leader regarding notification from EOC about changes in operations at end of day.
- Serves as main point of contact for building staff and volunteers.
- Meets and checks-in volunteers, provides a quick overview of responsibilities.
- Ensures volunteer needs are in appropriate locations, completing tasks and have any needs met.
- Trouble shoots any issues in the building in conjunction with Residence Life staff and Area Leader.
Traffic Coordinator (1 per building)
- Ensures cars are moving to appropriate locations when unloaded.
- Assists with flow of traffic if needed by UKPD and PPD.
- Knowledgeable about traffic flow coming in/out of the building, along with parking locations and shuttle options.
Unloaders
- Assists with unloading cars into carts or tables.
- Connects with Traffic Coordinator regarding any car/transportation issues.
Join the Wildcat Welcome Team
If you are interested in volunteering during Big Blue Move-In, you can sign up here. Questions about volunteering for Big Blue Move-In? Feel free to email the UK Campus Housing team at ukmovein@uky.edu for more details.
