Converse University Celebrates 136th Opening Convocation
Written by Luciana Ugalde Garcia ’27
On Friday, September 19, 2025, Converse University came together in Zimmerli Performance Center at Twichell Auditorium to celebrate its 136th Opening Convocation. This beloved tradition marked the official start of the academic year, filling the auditorium with students, faculty, alumni, and staff gathered to reflect on Converse’s values and to look ahead with hope and excitement.
The ceremony began with a stirring performance of Fantasia in G Major, BWV 572 by Johann Sebastian Bach, played by University Organist Dr. Brennan Szafron, as the platform party and senior class processed into the auditorium. Serving as Grand Marshal was David Berry, Daniel Professor of Music, accompanied by Faculty Marshals Dr. Madelyn Young and Dr. Doug Jensen.
The opening invocation was given by Gurjot Bahia ’26 (Nisbet Honors), President of the Religious Life Council, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Bella Moreno ’26, Vice President of the Student Government Association. Soon after, SGA President D’Asia Thomas ’26 welcomed the student body. She reflected on the journey of her class, encouraging everyone to embrace the opportunities of the year, and reminding students to lean on one another as part of the Converse community.
President Boone J. Hopkins, PhD, then took the stage to formally open the 136th academic session. Hopkins reflected on the excitement of a new year and the responsibility each student carries in shaping the Converse story. His message set the tone for a ceremony centered on trust, resilience, and the shared values of the University.
The convocation also honored academic excellence. Together with Provost Dr. William S. Case, President Hopkins presented the Dr. Jeffrey H. Barker Academic Excellence Award, followed by Class of 2029 academic recognitions. Scholarships were awarded, including the Faith Courtney Burwell Voice Scholarship, the Simpson Scholars, and the Weisiger Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Scholarship — reminders of the deep commitment Converse makes to supporting its students in academics, the arts, and athletics.
Dr. Case then introduced this year’s keynote speaker, Assistant Professor of Political Science Dr. Allison Vick; 2025 winner of the Kathryne Amelia Brown Award for Teaching. Dr. Vick’s address, titled “We’re Up Next, called on students to see themselves as leaders and problem-solvers for the future, encouraging them to embrace challenges with courage and to rely on the strength of their community.
The Converse Chorale, conducted by Dr. Keith Jones and accompanied by Lance Bastian, offered a moving performance of The Peace of Wild Things, a setting of Wendell Berry’s text with music by Joan Szymko. The piece invited the community to pause and reflect on peace, resilience, and hope.
Later, Ellie Lim ’27 (Nisbet Honors), Honor Board Chair, led the reaffirmation of the Converse Honor Pledge. This powerful tradition once again brought students together to pledge their commitment to integrity, trust, and respect.
The Alma Mater followed, performed by Dr. Szafron on the organ with words by Hessie Morrah Graham ’34 and music by Nancy Brasington Burns ’34. Finally, Bahia returned to the podium to give the benediction, closing the ceremony with encouragement for the year ahead. The recessional, Carillon, Op. 27, No. 4 by Marcel Dupré, ended the formal program.
As the platform party and seniors exited the auditorium, the audience remained standing in respect, carrying the spirit of the ceremony with them. Immediately after, students, faculty, and staff gathered in Gee Dining Hall for lunch, continuing conversations and celebrations as Converse stepped confidently into a new academic year.