Faculty wearing regalia at Commencement ceremony

First-Year Convocation

Friday, August 23, 2024, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall

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.

Faculty and Staff Marchers Needed

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.

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First-Year Convocation Agenda

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  1. 9:45 a.m.:  Commuter student breakfast hosted by the School of Arts and Sciences (Rockwell Hall atrium)

    11:00 a.m.:  Convocation ceremony (Performing Arts Center, Rockwell Hall)

    Noon:  Class of 2028 photo (front steps of Performing Arts Center, Rockwell Hall)

    12:30 p.m.:  Grab-and-go lunch for students, faculty, and staff (Hank Mann Quad)

    12:45 p.m.:  Student lunch and learn with academic departments (Hank Mann Quad)

    2:00 p.m.:  Post-Convocation party for students (Hank Mann Quad)

Meet Your Academic Deans

Kelly Frothingham
Kelly Frothingham Interim Dean, School of Arts & Sciences
Wendy Paterson
Wendy Paterson Dean, School of Education
Carol Denysschen headshot
Carol DeNysschen Dean, School of the Professions

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.