New Student Convocation FAQs

What is the meaning of this ceremony?

The New Student Convocation is the official welcoming ceremony of new students to the University Community by the President, administration, faculty and staff. It is designed as an opportunity to convey to students the importance of their educational endeavor and the commitment of the university to support them in the achievement of this goal - both inside and outside the classroom. In addition to formally introducing the students to their collegiate career, the New Student Convocation will give students a sense of the size, strength and identity of their class. The students will also experience Niagara University's sense of community derived from the values of St. Vincent De Paul. The ceremony is a celebration of university life and the beginning of the New Student Orientation weekend.

Why should you attend?

All new students are expected to attend the 60-minute New Student Convocation. It is an opportunity for students to develop a true connection to the university and an opportunity to connect with their future graduation class. For parents, it provides an opportunity to share in an important transition in the lives of their sons or daughters.

What does the ceremony consist of?

The ceremony itself is designed as a complement to the commencement ceremonies that graduating students experience at the end of their college careers. It will include faculty from each academic department, a procession and recession of the students, along with a host of other academic and administrative members.

Highlights of the program will include brief remarks by Rev. Joseph Levesque, C.M., President of Niagara University, a welcome from a faculty member who has received the Excellence in Teaching Award, almuni welcome, and the reciting of the "NU Creed" with the entire class of new students by the president of the Niagara University Student Government Association (NUSGA). The creed was written by a group of Niagara's student leaders.

What is the history of the New Student Convocation?

The inaugural New Student Convocation was held in August of 2003. University personnel from both the academic and student life sectors work together to organize a program that continues to establish a very rich and growing tradition on Niagara's campus for its new students each year.

We look forward to seeing you and your family at the New Student Convocation!