TOPICS:
Over 600 students officially kicked off their college journey at the New Student Convocation ceremony in Katz Gymnasium. On a warm summer day, Curry first-year and transfer students processed from the Academic Quad to the Student Center ushered by members of the men’s soccer team, where a line of cheering faculty and staff awaited their arrival. The ceremony gathered students, faculty, and staff in celebration of a new academic year while recognizing the commitment to learning and educational excellence.
View the Photo Gallery
Watch the Full Ceremony
The Class of 2028, which is the first class to benefit from a four-year promise of the Curry Commitment, was encouraged to seize every opportunity, make good choices, and branch out of their comfort zones.
Alumni Zoe Hoyt ’18 and Cameron Hoyt ’16 returned to campus as the event’s Keynote speakers and inspired the audience with their story of success and connection. The two met when they were students on the Curry campus, and according to Zoe, it’s the life-changing connections that truly make Curry a special place. “Through the activities I was involved with, I met friends who are still my friends to this day, and I met someone [Cameron] who would come to mean more to me than I could have ever anticipated.”
Cameron and Zoe are actively involved with The Hoyt Foundation, created by the late Dick and Rick Hoyt, two of the Boston Marathon’s most iconic participants. The foundation lives by the phrase “Yes You Can,” a motto to remind people that no matter what limitations or disadvantages in life, you can always persevere. It’s with this phrase that the Hoyts signed off on their keynote address, encouraging students that no matter the challenges, they can, and they will, overcome them.
“In this moment it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness as you start your first day of school tomorrow,” said Cameron. “Embrace these feelings—they are part of the adventure. Reach out for support when you need it, and remember that you are never alone… As you embark on this new chapter filled with boundless opportunities and challenges, always remember – “YES YOU CAN!”
Watch: Cameron Hoyt ’16 and Zoe Hoyt ‘18 deliver Keynote address
During his second Convocation welcome address at Curry, President Jay Gonzalez welcomed the new class with words of encouragement, support, and advice. They were urged to “Be Curry,” a sentiment that embodies all the attributes of Curry that make it a unique and special place that’s full of opportunity.
Watch: President Jay Gonzalez delivers Convocation welcome address
With a thoughtful and engaging approach, Dr. Ishani Tewari, Professor in the School of Business and Technology, delivered an educational message representing the Curry faculty that encouraged students to embrace the opportunity of choice.
“Over the next four years, you'll encounter countless choices. Some will be easy, others will be daunting. But remember, each one is an opportunity. It's a chance to shape our lives, our careers, and even the world around us.”
Watch: Dr. Ishani Tewari delivers faculty Convocation address
Student Government Vice President Sylvia Yolanda Gaunichaux Nerette ’25 advised the Class of 2028 to get involved not only just in clubs and activities, but in Curry’s community as a whole. “When you put yourself out there, only good things can come from it,” she said, explaining that one connection, or one leap of faith, can change your life forever.
Watch: Sylvia Yolanda Gaunichaux Nerette ’25 delivers student Convocation address
Gaunichaux Nerette concluded the ceremony by leading the Class Oath, as the Class of 2028 vowed to respect one another and all those in the Curry Community as they embark on this new chapter and take advantage of the opportunities ahead.