Scenes from UC Convocation

The alma mater, a rising banner, a University of Cincinnati pin and a big cheer were all part of UC Convocation, the university’s formal welcome to new students. UC’s administrators, faculty and thousands of students and their parents were on hand for the student induction into the university Sept. 21.

UC  Provost Anthony J. Perzigian addressed the students, saying the achievements and contributions of the UC faculty and alumni have truly made UC a great institution of higher education. He told the students that they were about to begin their own exciting journey at the University of Cincinnati and that at graduation, they too would become part of the UC legacy and begin their contributions to society.

“The journey will not be easy. It will involve hard work and sacrifice, but you will find this to be the best investment of your life,” Perzigian said.

Richard D. Karp, professor of biological sciences and chair of the Faculty Senate, told the students, “We will help you achieve your dreams.”

In the Convocation address, Jonathan Kamholtz, associate professor of English and comparative literature, encouraged students to “learn how to listen, learn how to watch, learn how to do.” He reminded the students that their education is not only earned by completing the requirements of their major, but also by exploring the connections between the campus and the rest of the world. “Use your education to find out what you’re truly curious about.”

The new students also heard from UC Student Body President Ron Ricks Jr., who reminded them of UC’s principles of a Just Community, detailed on the back of their Convocation program. He told the students that the principles reflected the university’s commitment to excellence, and encouraged students to get involved with UC. “There’s a wealth of opportunities and resources here for you.” Ricks told the students that not only was it important to graduate better prepared and better educated, but also to graduate a better person.

Mitchel D. Livingston, vice president for Student Affairs and Services, then presented the student body to the provost as candidates of matriculation into the university.
As the quintet of student orientation leaders sang the alma mater, the class banner, made up of more than 190 flags the students designed during orientation, was raised. Livingston said the banner represented UC’s commitment to the values that make the campus a more just and caring community.

Student orientation coordinator Steven Haisley then called all of the student orientation leaders forward, telling the students that these mentors during orientation were now fellow peers. Preceding the ceremony, the first-year students had received UC lapel pins from the student orientation leaders when they assembled at Nippert Stadium. Convocation ended with a cheer as the students put on their pins, symbolizing their membership in the UC student body.