Syracuse Sun

New Student Convocation marked the official welcome of new students to Syracuse University, gathering them for the first time as a class. The event took place in the JMA Wireless Dome and featured an academic program with leadership and faculty processing in full regalia.

Over 4,000 new and transfer students from 49 states, including Washington, D.C., U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; 20 indigenous nations and 59 countries were welcomed. University leaders and student speakers shared advice and posed thoughtful questions to these students embarking on their new journey.

Alie Savane, a biology major in the College of Arts and Sciences, addressed his peers with candid reflections on his own struggles. “Live it up; be in the moment. It’s okay to fail, I encourage it; it’s a learning point,” said Savane. He emphasized that growth is fundamental to the university experience and praised the supportive community at Syracuse.

Chancellor Kent Syverud made two requests of the new students: to come as they are and to strive for personal growth during their time at Syracuse. “There is no one way of thinking, no one way of dressing... So given that there is no ‘normal’ here, why not try just being yourself here,” he stated. He also encouraged students to take advantage of their opportunity at a great university by becoming more in their unique ways.

Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer, highlighted the competitive admissions process and urged students to explore new ideas fearlessly while maintaining respect for differing viewpoints. “I hope you’ll debate big, contentious issues and ideas respectfully... being mindful of our goal of being a place of academic excellence in a university that is welcoming to all,” Groves said.

Lois Agnew, interim vice chancellor, provost and chief academic officer, spoke about seizing possibilities during their time at Syracuse through research, creative inquiry, study away programs, experiential learning, and intellectual bravery. “Challenge yourself. Be brave and be curious,” Agnew advised.

The convocation concluded with new students reciting the charge and singing the alma mater together. They will gather again in four years for Commencement in May 2028.