Randolph begins 2024-25 academic year with Convocation
Members of Randolph’s record-breaking first-year class gathered on Wednesday with fellow students, faculty, and staff for Convocation, a ceremony that officially marks the beginning of the new academic year.
“Students, your success is at the heart of the College’s mission,” Ott Rowlands said. “You are the reason we do what we do. Your achievements, your growth, and your well-being are our greatest rewards. But your success doesn’t just happen. It requires your dedication and commitment, along with support from a community that believes in your potential.
“You are all originals,” she added, “with your own strengths, challenges and dreams.”
The ceremony began with the procession of faculty and seniors from Main Hall into Smith Hall Theatre.
During the ceremony, Ott Rowlands congratulated seniors—who were decked out in funny hats and graduation robes laden with buttons—and welcomed the Class of 2028, Randolph’s largest first-year class on record.
“During a time when many colleges and universities are struggling with enrollment, we are seeing significant increases,” she said. “This is a testament to the value of a Randolph education and the innovative student experience we offer. We are excited to see our diverse community growing.”
Lexie Lama, Student Government president, encouraged her classmates to work hard, ask questions, get involved, make memories, and help each other.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey, where we pause to celebrate the years of hard work, dedication, and determination,” she said. “We reflect not only on the academic achievements we celebrate today, but also on the transformative experiences and invaluable lessons that have shaped us along the way.
“If I were to tell you what it means to be a WildCat,” Lama added, “I would say it is a community that leans on one another, a community that welcomes you wholeheartedly with open arms. Be that shoulder to lean on. Be kind to one another. Most of all, be there for yourself.”
During the event, Tim Smith, provost and vice president for academic affairs, presented several awards to faculty.
Heidi Kunz, Selda Altan, and Beth Gafford
Heidi Kunz, Randolph’s Katherine Haas Eichelbaum ’32 Professor of English, received the Katherine Graves Davidson Award, which recognizes a full-time member of the faculty who has been outstanding in bringing distinction to the College.
Selda Altan, assistant professor of history, received the Katherine Graves Davidson Scholarship Award, which recognizes the importance of faculty research, scholarship, achievement, and creative activity.
Beth Gafford, assistant professor of education, received the Gillie A. Larew Distinguished Teaching Award, which is given to a member of the faculty who has demonstrated excellence as a classroom teacher and is based on student nominations.
Ott Rowlands also recognized faculty and staff during the ceremony, thanking them for the unwavering support they offer to students.
“Every day, we have the opportunity to inspire, encourage, ignite curiosity, and encourage a passion for learning in subjects ranging from philosophy to microbiology,” Ott Rowlands said. “We are shaping the future, one student at a time.”
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