Spring is officially on the to-do list at Colgate! As the snow begins its retreat and the afternoon sun lingers just a bit longer on Peter’s Glen, here are 13 quick updates and reminders as students approach the mid-term recess and a well-earned break.

President Brian W. Casey invites families to view the recently released President’s Report, noting: “It’s our annual opportunity to be clear about where the University stands — how we are doing against our long-term commitments, how we are stewarding our resources, and how today’s decisions fit into a larger trajectory for Colgate.”

For 25 years, the COVE has been connecting students with community-centered partnerships, helping to create a lasting impact beyond Colgate’s campus. From one-time projects to semester-long commitments, find out how the COVE facilitates opportunities for students to engage meaningfully with the community.

Students and alumni mingle during Sophomore Connections in January.

Students help sort and pack food for donation at an MLK Day of Service event.

On Friday, Feb. 13, students gathered in the Coop to celebrate Colgate Day and the C Store grand opening with giveaways, photo booths, and more.

Need more meal swipes? Starting after Spring Break, students with a block meal plan can purchase the Spring Reload Plan: 25 additional swipes for $350. Visit dineoncampus.com/colgate to add flexibility to your student’s plan for the rest of the semester.

Looking to add ’Gate Cash? To add funds to your student’s card for use at the C Store and other campus and off-campus locations, visit the ’Gate Card Management page. Balances roll over between semesters and are refundable at graduation.

Course registration for the fall semester begins in early April. Through this guide, the Division of the Provost and Dean of Faculty provides insight into course selection and availability, exploring how Colgate balances individual preferences with a guaranteed path to graduation.

This week marks the deadline for sophomores to have officially declared their majors (Friday, March 6). For first-year parents whose students are in the decision-making stage, Colgate experts offer these suggestions to support them as they begin choosing their academic focus.

Coursework and life outside the classroom can be a balancing act. The Center for Learning, Teaching, and Research (CLTR) has released three new resource guides to help. Find out more about these practical tips and strategies.

Leading up to the mid-term recess, Colgate’s Health and Wellness team will be using its social media account to encourage students to approach their well-deserved time off in a holistic way. Using these simple tips, they invite families and supporters to join in the encouragement.

The housing selection process for the next academic year is in full swing. Colgate’s residential life staff shares guidance and perspective to help in navigating housing discussions with your student.

Students and eligible authorized users may access the 1098-T forms now available on the TouchNet portal. Course registration takes place April 6–10. Please confirm your student’s account is paid in full and any remaining payment plan payments are current to ensure a smooth registration process for them. The Office of Student Accounts is happy to help if you have any questions or concerns. Email stuaccounts@colgate.edu or call 315-228-4817.

Is your student applying for financial aid for the 2026–27 academic year? The priority deadline was January 31, but it is not too late to apply. Visit the Apply for Aid page for information on application requirements for current domestic students. Students may also log in to their Colgate financial aid portal to view their outstanding requirements. 

Students can make reservations for Colgate shuttles to and from regional transportation hubs in Syracuse and Utica, and can purchase Megabus tickets on the transportation website. Colgate also offers regional bus routes throughout the Northeast, including New Jersey, Manhattan, and the Boston area. 

Students are welcome to remain on campus over the break. The Office of Residential Life sent an email on Monday, March 2, asking those planning to do so to register. This ensures they’ll have dining hall access and helps our Residential Life, Facilities, and Campus Safety teams know which rooms are occupied. There is no additional cost to remain on campus during spring break. 

Don’t miss out on the 142nd edition of the Salmagundi. Colgate’s yearbook is on sale now through April 30, 2026. A time capsule of campus beauty, student life, athletics, commencement, and more, the yearbook will be shipped to home addresses in late summer or early fall.

The deadline for submitting a personalized yearbook recognition ad for a graduating senior is March 31. Questions? Email salmagundi@colgate.edu.

*Except for students with prior approval from Residential Life

Photos by Mark DiOrio

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Parent and Family Initiatives | 315-228-7415 | parents@colgate.edu