Convocation in Richer Commons

Convocation

Convocation is a ceremony marking the start of the academic year. For first-year students, it is an opportunity to celebrate the beginning of your academic journey as a Westminster student. It's an opportunity for the Westminster community to formally welcome you, recognize the importance of your educational work, and vocalize a commitment to supporting you as you pursue your education. You'll hear from a variety of leaders on campus, including the university president, provost, and student body president, and have the opportunity to bond with your fellow classmates as you begin this momentous journey together.


students listening to convocation speaker

2023 Event Schedule

Monday, Aug. 21, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. in Richer Commons

  • 8:45 a.m.
    • Students gather on the Residence Village lawn
    • Faculty gather on the steps of the Giovale Library
  • 8:50 a.m.
    • Staff are invited to arrive at Richer Commons
  • 9:00 a.m.
    • Welcome | President Bethami Dobkin, PhD
    • Convocation | Provost Debbie Tahmassebi, PhD
    • Presentation of Class | Erica Johnson, VP for Enrollment Management
    • Student Body Introduction | Leah Stevenson, ASW President
    • Academic Address | Provost Debbie Tahmassebi, PhD
    • Remarks | Professor Julia Kamenetzky, PhD, Gore Excellence in Teaching Award Recipient/Grand Marshall
    • Closing Remarks | Provost Debbie Tahmassebi, PhD
    • Alma Mater

faculty speaker at convocation

Alma Mater

We sing to Alma Mater
our dear Westminster U.
Beside the Wasatch mountains,
skies of azure blue.

Oh may thy students
e’er pledge their love to thee.
With grateful hearts Westminster U,
we sing this song to thee!

 

Thistle


Thistle adapts and blossoms in any environment. Westminster University students will be challenged, learning adaptability and flexibility—growing and going wherever the future takes them.

 

Convocation arch of flowers

History of Westminster University


More Than 140 Years of History

Westminster University has played a pivotal role in the educational heritage of the intermountain area. Today, Westminster exists as a fully independent, privately funded, nondenominational, comprehensive liberal arts institution of higher learning with selected graduate programs, meeting the West’s educational needs as it has since 1875.