As the second full week of Fall Semester came to close, first-year students gathered at Conant Performing Arts Center for Convocation 2024.
With inspiring messages, music and ice cream sandwiches after, the first-year Petrels heard from new Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Gabriel Barreneche, who joined Oglethorpe on July 1.
“At the start of your college career, you are embarking on a transformative journey,” Barreneche said. “You will leave behind your families: parents, siblings, friends, pets. This will be a tough transition for both you and for those you leave behind. However, I will say that these transitions will lead to growth, evolution, bigger and better things.”
The annual ceremony to officially welcome Oglethorpe’s new class, Convocation also includes the signing of the university’s Honor Code — the academic responsibilities that students accept by becoming members of the Oglethorpe community and the procedures they will follow should that commitment to honesty be questioned. Every student signs this code.
In addition to Barreneche, speakers at this year’s Convocation included President Dr. Kathryn McClymond, Student Government Association President David Martinez-Alvarez ’25 and Professor of Mathematics and Honor Council Secretary Dr. Lynn Gieger.
“You belong at Oglethorpe,” McClymond said. “I am absolutely confident that we made the right choice to bring you here – you are academically strong, intellectually curious, engaged in the world beyond your academic studies, and driven to succeed at whatever ignites your passion. Those are the qualities that distinguish members of the Oglethorpe community, and you have those qualities. If you are experiencing any impostor syndrome, rest easy. You belong here.”
A celebration of Petrel Pride, Convocation 2024 also featured the Oglethorpe University Singers, conducted by Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Dr. Tom FitzStephens. In addition, he led new students in singing Oglethorpe’s alma mater and fight song.
“We have come to OU because the classroom is our number one priority, and the relationships we develop with students are what make us tick,” Barreneche said. “Students are our passion. Not all colleges and universities professors are this way. It won’t all be fun and games, though. Your professors are going to make you work hard and rise to your potential, so get ready for the challenges ahead.”
