Convocation Welcome

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Welcome, everyone! I am thrilled to be with you here on campus together, starting classes at last!

Convocation is a tradition at Vassar that began in 1865. In those early days, Convocation was a sermon given by the first president, President Raymond (yes, after whom Raymond House is named). Not to worry, that tradition is no longer, and I have no intention of giving a sermon.

By 1914, Convocation had expanded to be a parade of faculty and students in full regalia; and I thank Professor Lotto, our Faculty Marshal, for helping us to reenact this ritual. Every Convocation has been held in the Chapel building since it was erected in 1904, except during the 1960s when the ceremony was held in the outdoor theater, and when it was held on Zoom during COVID.

So, today, you join the long academic tradition of Convocation, common to all Vassar students, when we are “called together.”

This work of coming together as a learning community is not easy, particularly at a time of enormous global tragedy, unrest, and instability. Yet, as we are shown again and again, our futures are inextricably bound to each other. And liberal arts education—which liberates the mind and opens our eyes to a broader, more nuanced perspective—can help us, can create community around learning, and can sustain our collective aspirations and our hope. Convocation reminds us of this underlying truth: We are in this together.

Today is the official opening of the academic year at Vassar. May the year spark your curiosity, inspire compassion, and renew our faith in the Vassar community.

—Elizabeth H. Bradley, President, Vassar College