as mayor, he annually welcomed first-year students at penn state held at the new student convocation and the arts festival, welch also took part in penn state's homecoming activities, taught students about local government, met regularly with international students, gave tours of the state college borough building and frequently attended building dedications and other events on campus such take back the night, veteran's day ceremonies and celebrations honoring martin luther king jr. — often giving remarks and providing history about town-gown relations. welch also served as co-chairman of the campus and community partnership united against dangerous drinking, where he was involved in efforts to help curb dangerous drinking.