A Campus Tradition Serves Up a Warm Welcome: President’s Picnic 2026

CSUN President Erika D. Beck and students celebrate the start of the new academic year at the President’s Picnic 2026 on Bayramian Lawn. (Ringo Chiu / CSUN)

Students enjoy some barbecue fare at the President’s Picnic, September 3, 2026. (Ringo Chiu / CSUN)

K-9 officer Bertie, who joined CSUN’s Department of Police Services this past spring, was on hand to say hello with her handler, Cpl. Jerome Basal. (Ringo Chiu / CSUN)

The President’s Picnic is always a great way to catch up with old friends — and make some new ones! (Blake Fagan / CSUN)

Students challenge each other to spirited games of corn hole on Bayramian Lawn. (Blake Fagan / CSUN)

CSUN President Erika D. Beck, faculty and staff volunteers kicked off the new academic year September 3 with a beloved campus tradition: the President’s Picnic.

On the lawn outside Bayramian Hall, the event welcomed students with tasty barbecue fare, fun games and plenty of opportunities to connect. Pop-up tents and tables featured a variety of campus services, including Information Technology, Associated Students and the Department of Police Services, while volunteers served lunch and dinner during afternoon and evening sessions.

Whether grabbing a meal before class, enjoying a game or capturing the moment with a selfie, students found plenty of ways to celebrate the start of the semester. Check out the photos from this spirited CSUN tradition.