Convocation Begins 129th Year

Concordia’s 129th academic year began with messages about speaking out, showing up, and giving yourself time and space to become.

Concordia launched the 129th academic year with opening convocation. Student Government Association president Sara Villalobos ’20 addressed the incoming students with a challenge to reflect and to speak.

“Speak your truth,” Villalobos said. “If you don’t know what that is, find your truth.”

English professor Dr. Joan Kopperud’s message also stressed the importance of each person and how showing up and being part of the conversation was critically important as was both speaking and listening.

“You belong here,” Kopperud said. “We need your voice.”

The speeches ended with President William Craft reminding the students that the people around them are there to guide and challenge, and students don’t need to have everything figured out as the academic year begins.

“Value your own life and your own learning enough to let them unfold,” Craft said. 

Dr. Susan Larson, dean of the college, declared the academic year officially open and the event closed with the singing of “The Hymn to Concordia.”