Stephens College

Alumni Weekend 2026
2026-04-23 - 2026-04-25 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Come Home to Stephens!
Alumni Weekend 2026 – April 23-25, 2026
Mark your calendars and make plans to return to campus for Alumni Weekend 2026—a time to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate all things Stephens. Whether you’re catching up with classmates, cheering on our students, or simply taking in the beauty of campus in spring, this will be a weekend to remember.
Full agenda available here.
Reconnect, Relive, and Celebrate
Haven’t been back to campus in a while? Now’s the time to rediscover the heart of Stephens College. Spend quality time with today’s students who are writing their own chapters of history. Catch up with current and retired faculty. Celebrate the service and accomplishments of amazing alumni. And, as always, immerse yourself in the warmth and spirit of Stephens.
We’re thrilled to welcome you back to campus! Registration is now open—don’t miss your chance to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate all things Stephens!
Register here
Have questions or need assistance? Contact us at alums@stephens.edu or (573) 876-7110.
We can’t wait to see you in April—make your plans today!

2026 Honors Convocation
2026-04-23 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Honors Convocation is one of the most cherished academic traditions at Stephens College. Held each spring, this formal ceremony brings the campus community together to recognize outstanding students, faculty, and alumnae for their achievements, leadership, and service.
During Honors Convocation, students are awarded scholarships, academic honors, and special recognitions that celebrate excellence across disciplines and areas of campus life. The event highlights Stephens’ commitment to integrity, scholarship, and personal growth—and serves as a meaningful moment of reflection as the academic year draws to a close.

Senior Portfolio Artist Talks
2026-04-23 17:30 - 18:30 | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Davis Gallery, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Wine and Light Snacks provided.

Harbinger Launch Party
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Hugh Stephens Library Penthouse, 100 Waugh St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Join us for an evening of celebration as we recognize the contributors and staff of Harbinger and usher the newest edition out into the world! There will be refreshments for all, and a broadside display in the lower floor of the library.

Curtain Up!
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Macklanburg Playhouse, 100 Willis Ave, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
A dynamic showcase from the Conservatory for the Performing Arts.
Join us for Curtain Up!, a brand new and dynamic showcase from the Conservatory for the Performing Arts that celebrates the talent, passion, and versatility of our students. This 90-minute performance features an exciting blend of music, acting, and dance—highlighting original and classic works brought to life with heart and artistry. From comedic short plays and show-stopping vocals to captivating choreography, Curtain Up is an inspiring evening of performance that shines a spotlight on the next generation of performing artists. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of creativity and craft!
7:30 p.m. on April 24 & 25 | 2 p.m. on April 26

Tickets

Susie's Pop Up & Spring Student-Design Drop
2026-04-24 11:00 - 15:00
Check out the Susie’s pop-up in the quad outside the Firestone Baars Chapel between 11am-3pm on Friday, April 24th! This event will feature Susie’s spring student-designed merchandise drop, highlighting work created by Stephens students in Creative Ink.

The regular store location will also be open prior to the pop-up from 9-11 a.m. on Friday, April 24 to accommodate the Alumni Weekend festivities.

The Collections 82nd Annual Fashion Show
2026-04-25 | Windsor Auditorium
The 82nd Annual Collections Fashion Show will be held at Stephens College on Saturday, April 25th in Windsor Auditorium.

Come join us for the 82nd annual student designer fashion show, The Collections. Show times are April 25th at 2:00pm, 4:30pm, and 7:00pm in the Windsor Auditorium on the Stephens College Campus. The Collections is a culmination of the students’ creative work over the course of the academic year.
Year after year, Stephens College fashion students set their sights on what they believe to be fashion’s new vision. By layering past and present and exploring the connections between them, we were led to this year’s theme – Interwoven. Interwoven envisions fashion as a reflection of our shared experiences, where garments and people are shaped through connection. Every garment layers moments, movements, and memories, carrying the past forward. We all carry a heritage; collecting and expanding stories, experiences, and connections as we interweave with the people, places, and communities we encounter. These convergences create the fabric of a moment in time. Each garment, like each person, is woven and shaped to layer our histories throughout its journey, becoming something unified, textured, and deeply human. Thus, clothing becomes a physical record of our shared humanity, and a visible expression of our collective narrative.
Premier ticket holders enjoy premium seating at the show, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience. Additionally, their experience is further enhanced with a Swag Bag filled with locally sourced products.
For more information, visit: thecollectionsfashionshow.com or email: fashion@stephens.edu
Buy Tickets on EventBrite
Take a look behind the scenes with this Inside Columbia article!

Preview Day - Heritage and Horizons
2026-04-25 08:00 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Preview Day – Heritage and Horizons
Ideal for Freshmen – Juniors in High School
Register For Preview Day
Preview Day Agenda:

8:45 – 9:00 a.m. – Check-in
9:00 – 9:15 a.m. – Welcome
9:15 – 9:30 a.m. – Young Alumni Panel (Heritage)
9:45 – 10:00 a.m. – Student Panel (Horizon)
10:00 a.m. – 10:45 p.m. – Overview of Academics and Student Experience
10:45 – 11:45 p.m. – Campus Tours
11:45 – 12:45 p.m. – Enjoy lunch on us at Stamper Dining Hall

Afternoon options (Pre-registration Required):

12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Prince of Wales Centennial Luncheon & Equestrian Experience | Equestrian Arena | Transportation Provided | Meet in LRW Parking Lot
Fashion Shows: 2:00 p.m. | 4:30 p.m. | 7:00 p.m. The Collections Fashion Show | Windsor Auditorium
Conservatory Show: 7:30 p.m. “Curtain up” – Senior Theatre Showcase | Macklanburg Playhouse

MFA Virtual Open House - Q&A with Director Rosanne Welch
2026-04-26 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom
Join us for a Virtual Open House hosted by the MFA in TV and Screenwriting program—your chance to explore what makes our two-year, low-residency model both flexible and creatively invigorating.
Program Director Rosanne Welch will be there to guide you through the application process, share insights into the curriculum, and offer a candid look at what life is like for writers in our unique graduate community.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet with current graduate assistants, hear about their experiences firsthand, and get answers to any questions you may have about coursework, mentorship, or the day-to-day rhythm of the program.
Whether you’re polishing your portfolio or just beginning to consider an MFA, this open house is the perfect place to envision your next step as a screenwriter.
Held virtually via Zoom – two dates available:
April 15 at 4 pm (PT) | 6 pm (CT) | 7 pm (ET)
April 26 at 5 pm (PT) | 7 pm (CT) | 8 pm (ET)
Register Here

Swift Night Out: A Tour of Bird-Friendly Chimneys in Downtown Columbia
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:45 | 6th & Cherry, 555 Locust St, Columbia, Missouri, 65201, United States
Join the US Fish & Wildlife Service and Columbia Audubon Society to explore the architecture of downtown Columbia from the perspective of Chimney Swifts and to watch for possible roosting activity during Spring Migration. Meet at the corner of 6th and Cherry (in front of the parking garage) at 7:00 p.m. Total round trip walking distance will likely be ~1 mile on city streets. We’ll return to the starting point by 8:45 p.m. Bring binoculars if you have them.
This walk is co-sponsored by US Fish & Wildlife Service and Columbia Audubon Society.
Questions? Contact Erin Holmes at erin_l_holmes@fws.gov.
Download the events flyer here.

Stephens Wears Prada: Global Alumni Event
2026-05-01 - 2026-05-03
Join fellow Stephens College alumni near you for “Stephens Wears Prada“, a global alumni watch party celebrating The Devil Wears Prada 2 during opening weekend (May 1-May 3). Dress in your most fabulous fashion, attend the movie together, snap photos, and share your standout style while reconnecting with fellow alums.
Find an event in your city—or host your own—through the Stephens Alumni Facebook Page.
Be sure to tag the Stephens College Facebook or Instagram pages and use hashtags, #StephensWearsPrada & #StephensCollegeAlum.
Hosted by Stephens College Alumni; contact alums@stephens.edu for questions.

Senior Portfolio Closing Reception
2026-05-01 17:00 - 18:00 | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Come join us for a closing reception with savory dinner snacks in Davis Gallery. The showcase features student work from Communication Design and Film students. May 1, 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Stephens Life Spring 2026 Release Party
2026-05-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Hugh Stephens Library Penthouse, 100 Waugh St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Please join us for the release of the spring 2026 issue of Stephens Life Magazine! This event will be held at the Stephens College Penthouse (5th floor of the library) from 6-7 pm. Students will talk about their work and we will have merchandise, created by the students, that will be for sale. Refreshments will be served.
This event is coordinated with the Senior Portfolio Exhibition closing reception in the Davis Gallery (5-6pm).

Paws for Performance: Adoption Event
2026-05-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Join us for Paws for Performance on May 2 from 4:00–6:00 PM at the Davis Art Gallery at Stephens College! 🐾
Students in the Animal Training course will showcase foster dogs from Columbia Second Chance as they demonstrate the skills and good doggy manners they have been learning through positive reinforcement training. Come cheer on these amazing dogs and meet potential new best friends looking for forever homes!
Enjoy refreshments, a silent auction, and pet supply donation bins inside the gallery, with the dog showcase taking place in the courtyard just outside.
Hosted by the Stephens College Animal Training Course in collaboration with Columbia Second Chance.

2016 THROWBACK Late Night Breakfast
2026-05-04 21:00 - 23:00 | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Students, we’re ending the year the only way that makes sense… a 2016 THROWBACK Late Night Breakfast 💅. Join us on May 4th from 9-11pm in the ballroom for our final event of the year. Think peak 2016 vibes, chaotic fun, and the perfect study break before finals hit.

What’s waiting for you:

🍳 FREE breakfast food (because we care about you fr)
🎮 Games & activities
🎁 Big prizes + giveaways
👑 Drag queen show (yes… it’s going to be THAT good)

Pull up in your best 2016 era fit. Think messy bun, Adidas track pants, chokers, Vine energy, whatever feels iconic to you. Come eat, laugh, vibe, and celebrate making it through the year 🫶

Hosted by the Office of Student Experience.

May 2026 Graduate Commencement Ceremony
2026-05-08 17:00 | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Please join us in celebrating our graduates!
Our May 2026 Graduate Commencement Ceremony will be held:
Friday, May 8 at 5:00 p.m. in the Kimball Ballroom inside Lela Raney Wood Hall on the Stephens College campus.

Directions & Parking

Accessibility Information

Can’t join us in person? Watch online.

May 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony
2026-05-09 11:00 | Missouri Theatre, 203 S. 9th Street, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Please join us in celebrating our graduates!
Our May 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony will be held:
Saturday, May 9 at 11:00 a.m. at the Missouri Theatre (203 S. 9th Street, Columbia, Missouri).

Graduating Students: There will be a mandatory undergraduate commencement rehearsal held at the Missouri Theatre on Friday, May 8th at 11 a.m.

Directions & Parking

Accessibility Information

Can’t join us in person? Watch online.

STARt Day
2026-06-03 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-06-10 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-06-17 10:00 - 13:00 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Students who have confirmed their enrollment at Stephens by submitting their deposit are encouraged to attend one of the following STARt Days. STARt Day was created to help first-year students get ahead and feel fully prepared for their first semester—long before move-in day.
During Start Day, students will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with key campus offices and get everything in place for a successful start:

Faculty / Academic Affairs will review transfer credits and help students create their class schedules
Accounting will assist with deposits, student ID creation, and payment plan setup
Financial Aid will be available to answer questions and provide guidance on financial aid options
Student Ambassadors & Admissions Counselors will offer tours of important campus spaces, including residence halls, to help students feel comfortable and confident navigating campus
Meet your future classmates!

Register for a date below:

June 3, 2026 – *Registration for the June 3, 2026 STARt Day is full.
June 10, 2026
June 17, 2026

Juneteenth Holiday: Campus Closed
2026-06-19 00:00 - 23:59 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Stephens College will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of Juneteenth. All administrative offices will be closed and no classes will be held.

Independence Day Holiday: Campus Closed
2026-07-03 00:00 - 23:59 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Stephens College will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day (observed). All administrative offices will be closed and no classes will be held.

Fall 2026 Move-In Day
2026-08-20 00:00 - 23:59 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
We are excited to welcome you to Stephens College!

Move-In Day for new students will be Thursday, August 20, 2026. Please mark your calendars and begin preparing for an exciting start to the academic year.

In the meantime, you have several steps to complete. Please review our Incoming Student Checklist and complete all the steps that are relevant to you. And please reach out if you need assistance — we are more than happy to help!

If you have not already done so, please make sure to join the incoming student GroupChat. You can find the link in the Navigating Stephens Module section under “Add Yourself to the GroupChat.” This will be one of the primary ways we share reminders, updates, and connect you with other new students before you arrive on campus.

More information about Move-In Day, Orientation Weekend, and what to expect will be shared soon. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Stephens community!

Block 1 Starts
2026-08-24 00:00 - 23:59
Block 1: August 24 – September 16, 2026

Labor Day Holiday
2026-09-07 08:00 - 17:00
Labor Day; No classes, campus offices are closed.

Block 2 Starts
2026-09-21 00:00 - 23:59
Block 2: September 21 – October 14, 2026

Block 3 Starts
2026-10-19 00:00 - 23:59
Block 3: October 19 – November 11, 2026

Thanksgiving Break
2026-11-21 00:00 - 2026-11-29 23:59
Thanksgiving Break is Saturday, November 21 through Sunday, November 29; No classes.

Winter Break
2026-12-17 00:00 - 2027-01-10 23:59
Winter Break is Thursday, Dec 17 through Sunday, January 10; No classes.

December 2026 Commencement
2026-12-18 18:00 | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Please join us in celebrating our graduates!

Our December Graduation Commencement Ceremony will be held Friday, December 18 at 6:00 p.m. in the Kimball Ballroom inside Lela Raney Wood Hall on the Stephens College campus.

Directions & Parking

Accessibility Information

Livestream
