Freshman Convocation

A Celebration of Learning

September 3, 2009, 6:00 PM - Oviatt Lawn
California State University, Northridge


Attention All Faculty and Staff: SAVE THE DATE

What is Convocation? This tradition convenes the freshman class to welcome them as participants in our campus community and to inspire them with excitement for learning in a formal ceremony marking the beginning of their CSUN academic journey. The first CSUN Convocation was held September 2007.

Who is invited? All campus faculty, administration, staff and students are invited to the Convocation to help welcome the new class and to enjoy the program.

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. Freshman 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 2009 Keynote speaker is Steve Lopez, author of The Soloist. This book has been chosen as the Freshman Common Reading for 2009-2010 and will be used in University 100, Freshman Composition and many other freshman classes. Lopez will also be speaking with those instructors utilizing his book and those interested in his writing in the Oviatt Library Presentation Room at 4 pm on September 3. Contact Cheryl Spector, Director, Academic First Year Experiences if you are interested in this special presentation.

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. All are welcome to the reception as well. Take the opportunity to meet the new class of Matadors!

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 Experiences at cheryl.spector@csun.edu or x3932. You may also wish to visit the Freshman Convocation webpage: www.csun.edu/nso/convocation.