New Student Convocation

A new tradition began this fall when nearly 300 new freshmen, new transfers and new international students were welcomed by the Saint Martin’s University faculty at the New Student Convocation held on Friday, August 25 as part of Welcome Back Weekend. Led by 2006-07 faculty president David Hlavsa, professor of theatre arts, faculty members in academic regalia processed into the Saint Martin’s Pavilion. The new students were surrounded by their families, University staff, members of the monastic community as well as the faculty as they learned that all in the Saint Martin’s community stand with them to help them succeed. Hlavsa’s message of community, support and the importance of ritual was culminated by teaching the new students the Saint Martin’s Alma Mater, accompanied by Hlavsa on his electric guitar.