Newberry College Begins Academic Year with Opening Convocation

More than 750 students, faculty and staff gathered in Wiles Chapel on Friday for the annual Newberry College Opening Convocation to usher in the 2016/2017 academic year. In keeping with tradition, the opening ceremony began with a full academic procession of current and emeriti faculty.

Newberry College President Dr. Maurice Scherrens welcomed the more than 350 incoming freshmen and transfer students along with the more than 650 returning students. In his remarks, Scherrens emphasized the importance of innovation and growth that supports the College’s liberal arts tradition.

“At Newberry College what matters most is that we stay true to our core Lutheran values and provide a strong liberal arts education that prepares our graduates to be meaningful contributors to society,” Scherrens said.

Campus pastor Ernie Worman helped student leaders light their class candles. The Candle Lighting Ceremony is a tradition begun four years ago that represents the Biblical theme of light. It signifies that each person at Newberry College is a candle burning brightly. If one candle falters or even briefly darkens, others are not diminished by helping that faltering candle. 

During the Opening Convocation remarks, City of Newberry Mayor Foster Senn and Joe Trainor, area business owner and member of the Newberry Board of Trustees, shared greetings from the local community.

Incoming freshmen and transfer students stood for the Matriculation Pledge and recited the Newberrian Creed. The convocation concluded with the traditional singing of the Alma Mater. This year’s opening convocation was web-streamed via Periscope for off-campus viewers.