Administrators, deans and faculty at Convocation

A mood of anticipation and excitement was shared by the approximately 1,400 first-year students as they poured into Shea Center at the end of the third day of the fall semester. They filed in as a faculty brass quintet played, and took their seats for convocation, a traditional academic ceremony which officially welcomes students toacademic life.

Held on Thursday, September 6 on campus, the ceremony was simulcast into the science building, which held the overflow audience. On hand to welcome the students were University administrators, deans and faculty.

President Arnold Speert (right), with Convocation speakers David Slaymaker (middle) and Andrew Asare (left), sophomore class president

Edward Weil, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, welcomed the students, and David Slaymaker, associate professor of biology, gave the keynote address.

Slaymaker gave the students three pieces of advice to help them learn and succeed.
“First you must value all knowledge, even that which seems not useful. You never know where you might find your passion. Second, you must get to know people on campus, especially the faculty. You must connect with them, and be inspired by them; this will benefit you. Finally, as you decide what your future is going to be, test-drive your ambition. Sign up for internships, so that you can try out your future before you take the big leap.”

Andrew Asare, sophomore class president, also greeted the students. “Make life here a challenge,” he said. “You can succeed, if you get involved in campus life.”