The annual convocation ceremony welcoming the class of 2018 was held in the Rondileau Campus Center auditorium, kicking off what promises to be an eventful academic year.
It was Dr. Mohler-Faria’s 13th and final time addressing convocation as president; he will step down at the end of this academic year. He shared his thoughts with the incoming students, as well as some advice.
“This is a beginning for each of you that will define and mark your lives in a way that will not only shape your future, but develop who you are,” he said. “There is an opportunity that exists at this university to engage yourself at every level, intellectually, morally, and even spiritually with a sense of being, a sense of learning, a sense of teaching, and a sense of engagement.”
In closing, the president told the class of 2018 that he wants to see each and every student succeed.
“We are here beside you for that transformation to be a part of that transformation with you,” he said.
Louis M. Ricciardi, ’81, chairman of the BSU Board of Trustees, delivered greetings from the board and told the new students to be bold and persevere.
“I suggest that every footstep you take from this point on, be a footstep that is purposely driven, to better understand and toward graduation,” he said.
Dr. Janessa Carvalho graduated from Bridgewater in 2004, and is now an assistant professor in the psychology department. As keynote speaker, she began by telling the students how on her first day on campus as a student she got a parking ticket. Next, she shared words of encouragement and advice.
“I encourage you all to be active and engaged students, prepare to be challenge, be willing to challenge yourself beyond normal, you are all capable of far more than you think you are, but you need to be dedicated,” she said.
Student speaker, senior Leanne Lowell, explained that these are the best years of a young person’s life, but there would be struggles.
“Convocation marks the beginning of this growth period at Bridgewater, and you will experience both highs and lows. But it is important to try to take away something valuable from each and every experience,” she said.
Bryan Baldwin, chief strategy officer, kicked off the ceremony by introducing the president. He mentioned many accomplishments Dr. Mohler-Faria has made during his tenure, including the increase in faculty, innovative initiatives and programs, and ten new buildings around campus.
“Today begins the president’s final academic year at Bridgewater, and perhaps the only way this can be relevant being how new you are in your lives is recognizing that all of you are the beneficiaries of his life’s work.” (Story by student Caitlin Seddon; photos by student Steven Rowell, University News; video of speeches by Matthew DeGrechie, TVS)
