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Curry College welcomed its largest incoming class in years on Friday, August 28, as the Class of 2030 gathered for the annual New Student Academic Convocation to officially kick off their college journey.
The celebration began with a procession from the Academic Quad to Westhaver Park, where faculty and staff lined the route to welcome the incoming class. The class then gathered in Katz Gymnasium with family, friends, and members of the College community for the formal ceremony.
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Rev. Dr. Marcus Hill opened Convocation by reflecting on his own college journey and the many ways it shaped who he became. He shared how his experiences helped him discover his gifts, passions, what mattered most to him, and ultimately, his calling. He encouraged the Class of 2030 to embrace the opportunities ahead and remain open to where their own journey may lead.
President Jay Gonzalez encouraged the Class of 2030 to approach their own experience with that same openness, reminding students that opportunities only matter if they choose to embrace them.
“I hope you will Be Curry,” he said. “Be intentional and proactive about your experience. Be present. Immerse yourself in Curry and seize the opportunity. Say yes.”
He encouraged students to take pride in their new community and lean into the people and experiences that make Curry special. “Take pride in being Curry. Take pride in being a member of this special community.
Watch: President Jay Gonzalez delivers Convocation welcome address
Students were then invited to reflect on the hopes and dreams they bring with them to Curry in a special request from seniors Milagros Marte '27 and Owen O’Shaughnessey '27, while Dr. Barbara Pinchera, Professor in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, reminded them that they have a community ready to help those dreams take shape.
“You have everything you need,” Dr. Pinchera told the class. “And what you don’t have, we will help you.”
She encouraged students to take care of themselves, be kind to themselves, and to remember: “I can do this. I am enough.”
Watch: Dr. Barbara Pinchera delivers faculty Convocation address
To end the ceremony, the Class of 2030 recited their Class Oath, beginning their Curry journey with four years ahead to learn, grow, discover their passions, and find their place in our community.