On Sunday, August 27th, 2023, the newest Red Dragons participated in Academic Convocation. A week after freshman and transfer students got to campus. Each year one of the first events SUNY Cortland does is the academic convocation introducing Welcome Week.
What Is an Academic Convocation?
The idea for an academic convocation, which took place after a ceremony held during Cortland’s earlier years, was introduced on a recommendation by the College’s Cultural and Intellectual Climate Committee. This tradition, re-established in 2003, is coordinated with the President’s Office. All first-year students, transfer students, and faculty are invited to participate in this event.
The convocation is a formal way for new students to be officially welcomed and introduced into the SUNY Cortland community. As well as an opportunity for new students to connect with students and faculty before classes begin.
The academic convocation processional starts with a ceremony presented by President Erik J. Bitterbaum, along with the Schools of Arts and Sciences, Education, Professional Studies gonfalonier, and other faculty and student speakers.
The processional then proceeds to a welcome walk where current students cheer on the newest red dragons on their way to a dinner with faculty from the Student Life Center to Park Center. This year included 1,250 first year students of the class of 2027 and 514 incoming transfer students. For many, this is a landmark achievement that starts the beginning of a new chapter in their collegiate academic journey.
The Cortland Convocation Experience
Nikki Ahmetaj, a member of the new SUNY Cortland class of 2027, when asked about her experience during this year’s academic convocation said, “I really loved being a part of this year’s academic convocation, I thought that it was a really special experience for me and my other peers. It gave me a warm sense of welcoming to SUNY Cortland and the community. It looked as if many of my other peers felt the same way”.
Friday, August 25th, 2023, and Saturday, August 26th, 2023, first year students were invited to take part in an Ice Cream Social and Class Picture in which they were given a free T-shirt.
Events
The start of Welcome Week was its events. Including various activities for one week, such as Red Dragon Stuff a Buddy and Welcome Picnic
Benefits of the Convocation
The activities, which are free unless otherwise noted, help the incoming students meet the campus community and aid them in their transition to college life. The activity filled schedule gives students the skills to better navigate around Cortland’s campus. This is the time when first-year students are most receptive to added information and more willing to participate in some of the activities that can shape their future entire collegiate career. President Erik J. Bitterbaum and the rest of the faculty and staff highly encourage students to participate if they are able to, because these events are amazing ways to connect with other students and campus members.