Last Friday, Oglethorpe University hosted a virtual convocation to kick off the academic year and officially welcome new students to their Oglethorpe journey.

The ceremony included a host of speakers, including Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Dr. Laura Renée Chandler, President Dr. Nick Ladany, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Kathryn McClymond, Student Government Association President Justin Bennett ’22, Dean of Students Dr. Kyle R. Williams, and guest speaker Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington.

In his keynote address, Rev. Dr. Washington stressed the importance of rest and recovery in the wake of current events. He also highlighted the healing power that community can offer and encouraged students to take advantage of all the resources at Oglethorpe.

The University Singers, led by Director of Choral Activities Dr. Timothy Powell, closed out the ceremony. Members of the Singers, including veterans of the program, recorded their performance of the Alma Mater from home.

Watch the recording of the 2021 Opening Convocation above.