First-Year Convocation
Friday, August 28, 2026, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Sports Arena
First-Year Convocation is a Buffalo State tradition that gives our newest students an opportunity to be officially introduced and welcomed into the campus academic community. From that moment on, they embrace Buffalo State as their alma mater.
What Is Convocation?
Convocation, from the Latin words meaning “to call together,” has been used to describe a ceremonial assembly of members of a university since the fifteenth century. At Buffalo State, the annual event provides first-year students with the opportunity to hear from administrators, fellow classmates, and faculty before beginning their university journey.
Alma Mater
Bengal Pride
Buff State you taught us to believe,
Be inspired and achieve.
With great minds and caring hearts
We’re here to lead and serve.
With hope anew we’ll venture forth,
It’s with one voice we proudly roar
We are Bengals to the core.
In years to come, we’ll reminisce,
Filled with joy for times gone by.
We’ll not fail you Alma Mater,
Change the world for good.
Though we must leave our Elmwood home,
In our hearts for ever more
We are Bengals to the core.
Oath of Matriculation
As a new student to Buffalo State University,
being now admitted to the rite of matriculation
in baccalaureate studies,
I do pledge to be an exemplary learner,
to place the highest value on my
intellectual, personal and professional growth,
and to respect learning and knowledge.
My priority is to be an educated person,
to make significant progress in my program of study,
and to graduate.
As a student at Buffalo State, I will conduct myself
with dignity, honesty, and civility,
respecting the views and diverse backgrounds
of my teachers and peers,
enhancing the life of my community,
and promoting the welfare and esteemed reputation
of Buffalo State University.
This I pledge to myself.