Community invited to join in traditional ‘M’ photo Aug. 25 to welcome incoming MSU students

Montana State University will take its traditional freshman class photo at Bobcat Stadium at 6:30 p.m. on Aug 25, and this year, anyone wishing to help welcome the class of 2022 is also invited to be in the photo.
 
Each year since 2014, the university has gathered its incoming students onto the field at the stadium, where they don special gold T-shirts and collectively form the shape of the iconic MSU “M” on the field for a photograph.
 
This year, MSU is also inviting current students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to be a part of the photo, posing in the stands to spell out “125” to celebrate the university’s 125th anniversary.
 
“We want our incoming students to know that the entire campus and Bozeman community care about them and want them to succeed,” said Chelsey Wilson, student engagement and leadership adviser for MSU’s Office of Student Engagement. “Inviting alumni, current students, community members, faculty and staff will demonstrate to our students that they are supported in their new environment.”


The photo will be featured on MSU’s homepage, on the university’s Facebook page and at commencement in 2022.
 
All ages are welcome to attend. MSU President Waded Cruzado, Champ, the Spirit of the West marching band and the cheer squad will be on hand. Participants will receive a limited-edition T-shirt, while supplies last. Those who wish to be in the photo must wear white.
 
Lineup begins at 5:30 p.m., and the photo will be taken promptly at 6:30. Parking is available in the West Stadium lot at the corner of Kagy Boulevard and 11th Avenue. Entry is through Gate 15.
 
RSVPs are encouraged but not required at http://calendar.msu.montana.edu/events/26854. For questions, write to engagement@montana.edu or call 406-994-5821.