The Ohio State University held its traditional Convocation ceremony at the Schottenstein Center, inaugurating the journey for the incoming class of 2029. As reported by OSU News, Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. led the event's proceedings, which mark the only occasion prior to graduation that the entering class gathers collectively.
With a tone of anticipation, Carter addressed the students, "This is that moment when you see your future, your life. It starts right here," and highlighted, “Everything you will do for the rest of your life will start and be shaped by what’s happening right here today," as per OSU News. Convocation precedes the first day of classes, setting the tone for the academic and social journey that lies ahead.
Joining the welcome, head football coach Ryan Day rallied the new arrivals to partake in the school's athletic spirit, especially as the defending national champions prepare to take on the Texas Longhorns. “We need you to be great fans. Because we need everybody to reach our goals,” Day commented, according to OSU News, urging vocal support from the students anticipated at Saturday's high-stakes game at Ohio Stadium.
Senior Vice President for Student Life, Melissa Shivers, captured the essence of the university's camaraderie, introducing "Carmen, Ohio," the school song that, as Shivers puts it, “reminds us of the joy and privilege of being here to learn and grow as a member of this community,” according to OSU News. The convocation also served as an introduction to life in Columbus, with Mayor Andrew Ginther arriving on a COTA bus to emphasize the city's liveability and services available to students.
To further knit the freshmen into the fabric of the university's long-standing traditions, the Alumni Association President and CEO Molly Ranz Calhoun presented each student with a Block O pin—a symbol of the connection to Ohio State's alumni community and its 155 years of excellence. "It may look simple, but it represents so much," stated Calhoun in relation to the pin's significance within the Buckeye family, according to OSU News.
The event wasn't just about formal welcomes and traditions. It showcased the vibrancy of campus life with appearances by mascots from local sports teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets, Crew, and Clippers, and giveaways including gift cards or discounts to popular campus-area eateries, aiming to create an energetic atmosphere for the fledgling Buckeyes.
.jpg){kind=link}