Freshman Convocation - A Celebration of Learning

Attention All Faculty and Staff: SAVE THE DATE

September 6, 2007, 6:00 pm
Oviatt Lawn, California State University, Northridge

What is this Convocation?

This new tradition convenes the freshman class to welcome them as participants in our campus community and inspire excitement for learning in a formal ceremony to mark the beginning of their CSUN academic journey.

Who is invited?

All campus faculty, administration, and staff are invited to the Convocation to help welcome the new class.

Where and when is it?

The Convocation will be held on the Lawn of the Oviatt Library with the formal program beginning at 6:00 pm Freshmen students and faculty/staff marshals will be asked to assemble in the Matador Square at 5:15. Other faculty, staff and students may assemble on the Sierra Quad prior to 6:00pm and take a seat as available after the freshman processional is completed.

Who is speaking?

The University President Jolene Koester will preside at this event. The 2007 Keynote speaker is Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who will speak on "Our Environmental Destiny." Mr. Kennedy, an internationally recognized environmental activist, will discuss "the important role that our natural surroundings play in our work, our health, and our identity as Americans. Using examples gathered from relevant art, history, litigation, and literature, he reminds us that we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations." (From the Harry Walker Agency) Mr. Kennedy's books include: Crimes Against Nature (2004) and The Riverkeepers (1997).

Why a convocation for CSUN?

The Convocation offers faculty and students the opportunity to link classroom learning and out-of-classroom learning. It provides a powerful message of encouragement for the success of each student.

How long is the program?

The formal program will end at approximately 7:15 pm with a reception to follow on the Oviatt Library Patio. The Oscar winning film "An Inconvenient Truth" will be shown on the Oviatt Lawn after the reception and is open to all members of the CSUN community.

More information on this event can be obtained by contacting the Committee Chair, Tom Piernik, Director, Student Development & International Programs at tom.piernik@csun.edu or x2393. Ideas for further academic integration of the program and its content can be shared with Cheryl Spector, Director, Academic First Year Experience at cheryl.spector@csun.edu or x3932.

Join in as we launch a new tradition for California State University, Northridge!