New Student Convocation 2026

con•vo•ca•tion
Latin convocationem, from convocare, “to call together”; from com-, “together” + vocare, “to call”; from vox “voice”.  A group of people formally assembled for a special purpose.  A ceremonial assembly at a college or university.

Curry College will celebrate the annual New Student Academic Convocation on Friday, August 28, 2026, officially welcoming our newest traditional undergraduate, continuing education, and Curry Catalyst students to campus, while sharing the many opportunities ahead for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Convocation begins at 10:30 a.m. on Westhaver Park with the new student procession from the Academic Quad, and continues inside Katz Gymnasium.

Schedule:

10:30 - 11:00 a.m. 
Procession

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Academic Convocation Ceremony

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Curry Community Picnic
New students, families, staff, and faculty will come together to celebrate the start of the new school year.

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Academic Cohort Gatherings
Students will have the opportunity to interact with faculty from their academic area of study, including those students who may be undecided at the time.

Convocation Program:

Welcome:
Jay Gonzalez, President

National Anthem:
Performed by Lucas Pasternik
Public Relations, Class of 2027

Centering:
Rev. Dr. Marcus Hill
Director of the Diversity Center and Spiritual Life

Opening Remarks:
Jay Gonzalez, President

Community Engagement Activity:
Milagros Marte
Public Health, Class of 2027
&
Owen O’Shaughnessey
Nursing, Class of 2027

Faculty Speaker:
Dr. Barbara Pinchera
Professor, School of Nursing and Health Sciences

Matriculation of Entering Class:
Dr. Robert Shea, Ph.D.
Provost & Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs

Student Oath (see below):
Ebony Parker
SGA President
Community Education, Class of 2027
&
Kerry Byrne
SGA Vice President
Special Education, Class of 2027

Student Oath

As a member of the entering Fall 2026 student body, I respect all members of the Curry College community.

As a member of a community of diverse learners and educators, I value intellectual, racial, and cultural diversity as key to understanding, communication and advancing the common good.

I seek to gain and apply knowledge in pursuit of truth and wisdom.

I understand that Curry College is committed to developing effective communicators with reflective and critical thinking skills supporting my personal and professional goals.

I accept the responsibility to actively participate in the intellectual life of Curry College as I take advantage of the opportunities ahead.