The University of Windsor presented a lot of opportunities to her, says recent biology and biotechnology grad Irina Bacanu. She joined hundreds of students in signing a large “thank you” card to donors, Thursday outside the CAW Student Centre.

“I am very grateful to the university for all the resources it has offered us,” Bacanu says. “I just wanted to say thank you to the supporters who made it possible.”

The banner will be displayed for alumni and other donors to see the expressions of gratitude from those who have benefitted from their giving, says Chris Schnurr of University Advancement.

“The students have been very eager to sign their names to the message,” he says. “It’s a tangible way for them to let donors know their generosity is appreciated.”

During the first day of classes, students took advantage of Adrenaline Rush to engage in fun activities ranging from an inflatable obstacle course to tests of their throwing accuracy. Below, find a collection of photos from Thursday’s carnival in front of Dillon Hall and Wednesday’s Welcoming Celebration in the St. Denis Centre.

Windsor Welcome Week events continue today, including the Taste of Sandwich eatery walking tour and an evening riverboat cruise. Saturday is Shinerama Shine Day with events from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., including a pep rally in the residence quad leading up to the Lancer football game on Alumni Field. Visit www.windsorwelcomeweek.ca for a full list of events, locations and times.

Social work student Natalie Jones tries her hand at tossing the old pigskin.

Classics major Jessica Breault absorbs a hit from her twin sister, Jordan Breault, a concurrent education student, during a bout of jousting.

Mechanical engineering senior Jeff Gagnier somersaults while completing the obstacle course. “It’s a lot of fun!” he enthused.

Biology student Michaela Cromwell tumbles from her steed and loses a bouncy horse race to psychology student Ibukun Adekoya.

Students enjoy a round of the classic party game Twister. “It’s a good way to meet people,” said Cindy Navarro.

The Shinerama barbecue fuels students in hopes they will join the charity fundraiser’s efforts on Saturday. Serving up the grub are volunteers Thuy Nguyen and Mehwish Kamal.

Friends look on as Teodora Cvetkovic attempts to navigate a straight line while wearing beer goggles that mimic the effects of alcohol consumption. “I learned not to drink that much!” said the first-year student of Spanish and media.

Video presentations combined with live camera work by staff of the Centre for Teaching and Learning helped to raise the excitement of new students at the Welcoming Celebration, Wednesday in the St. Denis Centre.

Lancer mascot Winston shamelessly mugs for applause.

Do the wiggle, yeah: Human kinetics students show off their moves to the dulcet tones of “I’m sexy and I know it.”

Students starting their five-year voyage of discovery in the concurrent education program demonstrate their pride.

Foam fingers indicating “Lancers are No. 1” proved a popular accessory.

UWindsor president Alan Wildeman performed a song of his own composition and accompanied himself on the mandolin.