University Human Resources

BEAR Day

Brown University celebrates staff in many ways each year, especially on BEAR Day where we all come together to celebrate staff reaching a milestone in years of service as well as those who have been selected for an Excellence Award.

We celebrate staff in two separate, very special ceremonies:

BEAR Day 2026

Tuesday, March 24 | A Celebration of All Staff

BEAR Day is our annual opportunity to pause, connect, and celebrate the incredible hard work and commitment of the Brown University staff. As part of the University’s Ever True initiative, this year’s event is a vital moment to honor our shared dedication and the enduring bonds that make our community resilient, caring, and strong.

We encourage all departments to step away from daily tasks and join us for a day of recognition and community.

Morning Programming & Staff Perks

In partnership with departments across campus, we are excited to offer expanded morning activities before the main celebration begins. Thank you to Dining Services, the Brown Arts Institute, Health and Wellness, and Athletics for partnering with us and sponsoring these amazing activities and offerings for our staff!

Please note: Additional registration via Workday is required for some of these activities listed. 

ActivityLocation/Details
Breakfast Treats

Free coffee and pastries from the Brown Food Truck courtesy of Dining Services 

Location: Main Green
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Lunch Specials50% off Lunch at the Faculty Club and Brown Food Truck courtesy of Dining Services 
Location(s): Main Green & The Faculty Club
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Art & Culture

Public art tour hosted by the Brown Arts Institute

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Location: Starting at the Bruno statue on the Main Green

Register Here

Health & Wellness

5NP Acupuncture at Health and Wellness 

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Health and Wellness Center

Register Here

Behind the Scenes
at Athletics

Tours of the Nelson Fitness Center and the new Penner Field House

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Starting at the Nelson Fitness Center 

Register Here

The Main Event

The BEAR Day celebration and reception cap off the day! Join us at the Salomon Center for our hallmark speaking program starting at 2:30 p.m., followed by the traditional reception in Sayles Hall. 

  • 2:00 PM: Doors Open (Salomon Center)
  • Speaking Program: Remarks from senior leadership, the presentation of the Excellence Awards, and the annual BEAR Day video.
  • Reception: Traditional BEAR Day celebration in Sayles Hall immediately following the program.

Registration is required for the main celebration and reception. See registration details below.

Registration and Security

  • Registration: Required via Workday.
  • Entry: Please bring your Brown ID, as it will be checked at the door.
  • Updates: Continue to check this page for additional details in the coming weeks.

Exclusive Staff Bookstore Discount

The celebration continues even after BEAR Day! To show our continued appreciation, staff can enjoy a special retail discount the following week at the Brown Bookstore. Thank you to the Brown Bookstore for providing this great staff discount each and every year!

Brown Bookstore Offer: Take 30% off your purchase! 
Dates: Discount is valid March 30 to April 2

Discount Disclaimer

Some exclusions apply. Not to be combined with other discounts. Excludes special orders, technology merchandise, course materials, periodicals, medical reference & supplies, food & drink, health & beauty items, chairs, class rings, regalia, and diploma frames. Excludes all Apple products, computers, iPads/tablets, Apple Watch, monitors, printers, and printer ink. Pre-orders and special orders are also excluded. Other exclusions may apply.

Contact Information

Questions? Please reach out to the Learning, Development, and Engagement team at ldeteam@brown.edu.

We look forward to seeing you on March 24 for a day of appreciation and community!

BEAR Day 2025

BEAR Day 2025 Video

 

Relive the magic and celebrate all the unforgettable moments.