University of Memphis will welcome first-time freshman students in grand style with its third Annual Freshman Convocation in the Rose Theatre on Monday, Aug. 29, at 2 p.m.
The event will have a pep rally-style approach in hopes of drawing students’ attention.
Organizers hope to motivate students to become actively involved on campus and to help ease transition fears from high school to college.
The U of M Pep Band, cheerleaders and pom squad will encourage Tiger pride.
Although the convocation will begin in a highly festive mood, Melissa Buchner, director of administration for the college of arts and science, points out that it will not be all fun and games.
“We go from rah-rah to serious pretty quickly,” she said.
Dean Kurtz, dean of the college of arts and science, said the primary intent of the convocation is to get freshmen connected to The University, set expectations and show opportunities.
Kurtz believes that once students know all of the resources available to them, they will be more likely to succeed.
“The more you’re involved in your education, the better you do,” he said.
Johana Suarez, a U of M freshman, said the convocation is important because it offers first-time students a chance to obtain valuable information.
“You have the opportunity to learn different places on campus and meet people studying with you,” she said.
Several University faculty members, alumni and students will share their experiences at The U of M with the audience.
Faculty members include, University President Shirley Raines, Provost Ralph Faudree and Vice President of Student Affairs Rosie Phillips Bingham.
Others scheduled to attend are Tiger head football coach Tommy West, star running back DeAngelo Williams and Lady Tiger basketball player Devin Necaise.
Donna Davis, news anchor for WMC-TV and a U of M graduate, will MC.
The ceremony will also include an overview of U of M tradition.
Freshman Rufus Woods said tradition and history aren’t important to younger students.
“It doesn’t have anything to do with them,” he said.
Suarez disagreed, saying new students can benefit from knowing University tradition because it lets them know what type of character The University expects.
“They’ll feel more commitment if they know the history,” she said.
Buchner said the inclusion of history and tradition helps foster a sense of belonging.
Our goal is to create a sense of connection between the community, students and faculty, she added.
In addition to the convocation, an information fair available to all students and will take place on the Alumni Mall outside of The University Center.
Angie Dunlap, coordinator of student activities, said the fair is a great opportunity for students.
“It’s probably the most comprehensive way of finding out how to get involved on campus,” she said.
Dunlap said many University clubs and organizations will be represented.
“We’ve got a little over 60 (clubs and organizations),” she said.
