The University of Akron is taking a more formal approach to its annual welcoming ceremony for students at Friday’s convocation at the E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall.
Although students are not expected to dress up for the 4:30 p.m. event, the more than 100 faculty attending will participate in a processional in academic regalia.
Convocations over the last 20 years have taken on varied appearances, including semiformal and casual gatherings.
Interim President Matthew Wilson proposed the change last month at the board of trustees meeting, emphasizing that the event marks the importance of students’ academic journey and the need to place a renewed focus on the learning experience. He said the ceremony should be more traditional to reflect that importance.
“The most recent convocation was informal — held in the Rhodes Arena — and was more like a pep rally,” said John Messina, vice provost for student success and associate vice president for student affairs.
“For me, it is absolutely critical that our students see our faculty and engage our faculty in multiple ways,” he said, emphasizing that “the formal academic welcome” helps to spotlight that faculty and students are partners in creating the educational experience.
Convocation serves as an introductory bookend to commencement — the culminating event in a student’s college career.
“The president sent a welcome email to all the first-year students, so in the official welcome he invited them to attend the convocation,” Messina said. “Every first-year student is encouraged to attend.”
During the ceremony, Wilson will welcome new students and the UA community at large, discussing UA’s traditions and pride and its commitment to support students’ path to graduation.
The other speakers include interim senior vice president and provost Rex Ramsier; sociology professor John Zipp; Undergraduate Student Government President Megan Bodenschatz; and student trustees Darnell Davis and Zachary Michel. The deans will introduce the faculty.
Zipp said he liked the idea of a formal convocation.
“I like talking to students, and this is a nice way to build support for the student body,” he said. “[Formal welcoming] hasn’t been done in the 18 years I’ve been at the university.”
A reception will follow from 5:30 to 6 p.m. in the Goodrich Lobby at E.J. Thomas Hall, where light refreshments will be served — including UA’s traditional Zippy cookies. Each student in attendance will receive a pin adorned with Zippy, UA’s kangaroo mascot.
Tickets are available for pickup at the Office of New Student Orientation on the second floor of Simmons Hall. For more information, contact the Office of New Student Orientation at ext. 2622.
Marilyn Miller can be reached at 330-996-3098 or mmiller@thebeaconjournal.com.