University of Jamestown Welcomes 306 Freshmen at Convocation

The University of Jamestown welcomed 306 freshmen during its annual convocation on September 4, 2023, held in the DeNault Auditorium. The event marked a significant milestone for new students as they embark on their academic journeys.

Reflections and Encouragement from Leaders

Kirstie Dobson, the director of campus ministries, opened the ceremony with a thoughtful reflection on themes of guidance and purpose. Following her address, University President Polly Peterson expressed gratitude to the faculty for their dedication to providing a holistic education. “You are a true example of superior guidance and education of the whole person,” she stated. “Thank you for the work that you do and for believing in the vision of UJ.”

Student Senate President Margaux Kautzmann then addressed both new and returning students, urging them to cherish their time at the university. “While making these memories, please slow down and smell the roses,” Kautzmann advised. She emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, stating, “You have started on a long path to the rest of your life, and the next four years of that journey are going to fly by.”

Virtues and Commitment to Excellence

The vice president for academic affairs, Michelle Solensky, introduced the Leadertown initiative, which focuses on the significance of practicing virtues in everyday life. “Virtues are not lofty ideals that feel out of reach,” Solensky explained. “They are habits—patterns of thinking and acting that we can practice every day.” She highlighted the virtues of wisdom, courage, and excellence as integral to the University of Jamestown’s character initiative.

Solensky elaborated on these virtues, noting that “wisdom fills as you ask questions and listen carefully,” while “courage is what allows you to learn from mistakes.” She concluded by affirming that “excellence is about effort and growth, showing up fully even when the work is hard.”

Maryn Schneider, representing the Class of 2029, expressed the excitement and commitment of her peers. “Although our past has shaped us, we are prepared to try new things in these challenging situations—it will help us define who each of us will become,” Schneider stated. “We vow to be fully immersed in the Jimmie experience and continue the excellence in tradition that has been established for years.”

During the convocation, President Peterson presented the Knight Award to Elias Harris, a criminal justice major from the Class of 2026. Harris was recognized for his quick thinking when he reported a fire in the campus cafeteria earlier this year. “His quick thinking and sense of duty reflect the spirit of this award,” Peterson remarked, acknowledging Harris’s achievements in academics, athletics, and the arts.

In a heartfelt address, Morgan Palmer, director of alumni relations, honored alumni Rachel (Perish) Heuchert and Samuel “Sam” Heuchert, both from the Class of 2016. The couple, who were college sweethearts, offered candid encouragement to the new students. “We could not have predicted the journey nor the outcome when we were in your seats,” Rachel Heuchert advised, emphasizing the importance of patience during their time in school.

Sam Heuchert added, “We like to think about stewardship as how we live out our priorities. We try to adopt the motto, ‘the magic of ordinary days.'” The couple also took a moment to recognize their faculty mentors at the university, including Chief Information Officer and Professor Chris Hoke and Professor Emerita Irene Paasch, Ph.D.

This annual convocation not only marked the beginning of a new academic year but also reinforced the values of community, mentorship, and personal growth that are central to the University of Jamestown’s mission.