Photos: Opening Convocation
ALBANY, N.Y. (Aug. 28, 2017) - Some 2,800 incoming Class of 2021 freshmen and 1,350 transfer students were welcomed to campus on Friday, Aug. 25 at the University’s annual Opening Convocation ceremony.
The ceremony celebrates UAlbany’s academic mission, introduces new students to UAlbany traditions and welcomes them as part of the campus community. New students, their family members, as well as University faculty and staff, were in attendance at SEFCU Arena.
Incoming President Havidán Rodríguez, who begins his tenure as UAlbany’s 20th president on Sept. 14, was a guest at the ceremony and offered a brief address to the new students. Interim Provost Darrell Wheeler offered the provost’s welcome, followed by brief remarks from Interim President James Stellar.
“Together, we will shape our community, we will shape the state of New York, and yes, let’s be ambitious, we will shape our world,” Dr. Rodríguez told the newest Great Danes.
The faculty address was delivered by Sheri Stevens, director of the Community Public Service Program at the School of Social Welfare. Stevens was the 2017 winner of the University’s torch award, which honors faculty who have been transformational in the lives of students.
Following the ceremony, new students positioned themselves in the shape of a giant “A” on Bob Ford Field for a class photo.
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A comprehensive public research university, the University at Albany-SUNY offers more than 120 undergraduate majors and minors and 125 master's, doctoral and graduate certificate programs. UAlbany is a leader among all New York State colleges and universities in such diverse fields as atmospheric and environmental sciences, business, education, public health,health sciences, criminal justice, emergency preparedness, engineering and applied sciences, informatics, public administration, social welfare and sociology, taught by an extensive roster of faculty experts. It also offers expanded academic and research opportunities for students through an affiliation with Albany Law School. With a curriculum enhanced by 600 study-abroad opportunities, UAlbany launches great careers.
