Freshmen Will Gather Aug. 25 for First Annual Convocation
For release: August 15, 2003
For press information, contact Gabrielle Maxey

As students enter college, they embark on a new stage of their lives. For the first time, freshmen at the University of Memphis will mark that beginning with Freshman Convocation Monday, Aug. 25.

Freshmen will gather at the Michael D. Rose Theatre at 3 p.m., then proceed next door to the Elma Roane Field House, where entertainment will include a step show and performances by the U of M Pep Band, cheerleaders, and Tiger mascot Pouncer.

During the ceremony, which will begin at 3:30 in the Field House, participants will be introduced to U of M traditions and will receive advice on becoming successful students. Speakers will include President Shirley Raines; Provost Ralph Faudree; Dr. Rosie Bingham, vice president for student affairs; and Andrew McGarrity, president of the Student Government Association. Alumni and students will share their stories of life at the U of M.

The idea behind Convocation is to welcome freshmen to the university, said Dr. Ric Hovda, chairman of the planning committee and dean of the College of Education. "We want to help them understand what university life is all about and what the University of Memphis stresses, which is being a dreamer, thinker and doer. It will also introduce them to the University's history and its traditions."

Convocation will conclude with a procession from the Field House to the Alumni Mall, where a picnic will offer the students free food, entertainment and games.

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