Convocation symbolizes tradition
Tradition is something that has and always will be a part of the American culture. From saying the pledge of allegiance to celebrating the independence of our country, traditions help develop the true essence of our beliefs.
With such a high standard for becoming a world leader, it is quite evident that GCSU would also have important traditions. This school was founded on the principles of Reason, Respect, and Responsibility, which are values that are instilled in every student.
In addition to the 3 Rs, the Freshman Convocation is a ceremony that every GCSU freshman experiences. The symbolic meaning that takes place during this event embraces the hearts of everyone that is involved.
Walking through the Pergola, the dome-topped structure between Atkinson and Terrell, passing around candles, and listening to an inspirational speaker have become a warm welcome set of traditions that are encountered by faculty, staff, and students.
Dr. Bruce Harshbarger, Vice President and Dean of Students, describes Convocation as an event of “ beginning and end.” Harshbarger believes, since the Pergola is located approximately at the center of the campus, it is a perfect representation of the actual footsteps an incoming freshman takes.
Freshmen leave the external world and enter the GCSU community through the heart of the campus. After four years of being molded into future leaders of the world, those same students exit through the Pergola towards the external world at the Commencement ceremony.
Having personally experienced the tradition of Convocation and Commencement, Karen Farmer, a current graduate student and former undergrad student of GCSU, knows exactly how it feels to be involved in these ceremonies.
“I felt privileged because I knew there would be so many diverse opportunities for me to succeed, make a difference, and grow as an individual,” said Farmer.
Convocation gives everyone a different first impression, and these impressions open doors to an experience unlike any other.
“At my Convocation ceremony where I was eager yet clueless as to what I was going to get myself into, I realized college isn’t just about academics,” said Farmer. “It’s a challenge of personal change and growth. I believe this achievement concluded my undergraduate experience to its fullest, and I am now prepared to continue my education for a Master’s degree.”
In addition to the Pergola, passing of the candles is a tradition that allows students, faculty, and staff a chance to get to know one another. As a candle is passed, so is information such as one’s name, hometown and maybe even hobbies. This forms a connection with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Through this ceremony the bonds in the GCSU community grow and the traditions strengthen.
During this year’s convocation, the inspirational speaker was Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who was recently on the cover of “Vanity Fair.” She is the Nigerian author of “Purple Hibiscus,” which was also the assigned summer reading. Her novel discusses independence, poverty, love and self-awareness.
The themes of her novel are very relevant to the lives of many Americans. Having read “Purple Hibiscus,” one’s heart becomes touched by an amazing revelation that connects all people: community.
After hearing Ms. Adichie, Laura Cox, a freshman who attended convocation, felt that “as members of the GCSU community we are given a chance to add and accept different cultural aspects.”
Cox appreciates Adichie for opening her eyes to that opportunity. Just as stated by Cox, Georgia College & State University is appreciative of any opportunity to create a tradition of community that encourages diversity and accepts all.
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Aug 31 2007. Filed under News.
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