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The inaugural All-University Convocation was held Monday on Penrose Lawn from 4:30 to 7 p.m. This showcase and celebration of the University of Denver drew many students from around campus, as well as faculty and student organizations.
This is the first year that the convocation has been held as a university-wide event. In the past, there has been a new student convocation the week before school begins and then a faculty convocation early in fall quarter. This year, however, a new all-inclusive convocation event was added.
“What happened was in past years the convocation was something students never attended. They wanted to try to have some kind of event that would bring everybody together at the beginning of the year,” Director of Citizenship and Community Standards Chris Austin said
Jennifer Layton, director of student programs, and Shannon Mick, classroom scheduling coordinator organized the Convocation this year.
“We wanted to create something entertaining, interactive and something that students would want to be part of,” Layton said.
Present at the event were many student organizations including the Indian Student Network, Undergraduate Women’s Council, Alpine Club, Model United Nations, Forensics Club, and Pride while KVDU provided music for in between events on the main stage. There were also many departments who set up booths including the Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Counseling Center and Campus Safety.
Events on the main stage were spaced throughout the evening, kicking off with a performance by the Jazz Orchestra. There were also performances given by the DU Dance Collective, a set by the DU Dance Team and a spot on the Cheerleaders and new Pep Band. The evening was ended with a dance put on by the Indian Student Network.
Chancellor Ritchie also spoke at the convocation, giving encouraging words about the tragedies in New York City in September. He started off by saying how well the University is doing and continued to say that the projects and goals of the University are going as well as ever. “We’re not going to waver from that road. I promise,” Ritchie said.
One of the biggest draws to convocation for students, other than the chance to learn more about the organizations, was the free food. Sodexho-Marriott provided the meal which consisted of corn dogs, hamburgers, carved turkey and roast beef, and lo mein, not to mention a variety of drinks and cookies.
The All-University convocation and DU Showcase seemed to be a big hit all around. “Everyone here who added to the event made it something special,” Layton said.
