New Student Convocation and Block Party spark excitement for new year

By Dina Weinstein

As weather radars showed an afternoon storm rolling into Richmond on Monday afternoon, organizers of the Weeks of Welcome programming at Virginia Commonwealth University moved the traditional New Student Convocation indoors and online.

However, the storm did nothing to dampen the words of encouragement and support from VCU leadership during the event, which was held on the second floor of the Commons and livestreamed to the broader VCU community. And although the always-lively Spirit Walk was canceled, the Block Party followed the storm's departure from the area and gave the day a suitably celebratory atmosphere.

With student MCs setting the festive mood and the Notochords, a student a capella group providing music, Hernan Bucheli, Ed.D., vice president for strategic enrollment management and student success, encouraged students to take advantage of the many resources at VCU.

"Please ask questions and we will be there for you," Bucheli said. "We have an amazing professional academic advising staff, campus learning staff, coaching, tutoring, financial aid counselors, all for you. So, ask questions and make sure that your journey is fulfilled. We all look forward to supporting you on your journey to graduation, and we cannot wait to see all the transformational things that will be accomplished in your journey."

VCU's fall enrollment this year is currently tracking 1% higher than fall 2023. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Weeks of Welcome is designed for new and transfer VCU students and is inclusive of all students. It aims to help students engage with peers, faculty, staff and resources to foster a sense of belonging; increase awareness of tools for success; and offer opportunities for students to engage and get involved.

Messages at New Student Convocation aimed to build a sense of community among members of the entering class and articulated VCU's mission and expectations to new students.

"If things get confusing, as you're navigating your new environment, if things get hard, if you just need someone to listen and maybe offer advice, please engage us and let us help you," said Fotis Sotiropoulos, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at VCU. "That's why we're here. We cannot emphasize it strongly enough."

VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., told the crowd to take chances and personally connect with one another.

"There are a lot of people who will be in your same shoes, have the same interests, and really do want somebody else to talk to. Somebody's got to initiate it. You can be the one," Rao said. "I ask you to do that. Keep your radar out there. And if you see people who need you, step up and try to say hi and try to help comfort folks, because they probably need you."

Attendance was high for the Block Party, which continued as scheduled after a storm washed out the Spirit Walk. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

"There's nothing greater than when you have done something to help somebody else. There's nothing that feels better than that. And that's what helps to make VCU."

Aaron J. Hart, Ed.D., vice president for VCU student affairs, said he and his colleagues spend their days discussing how they can ensure students have the best possible experience.

"Students are at the forefront of everything that we do, and we are all committed to making sure that you have a seamless process," Hart said. "Our role in student affairs is to advocate for you and to make sure that if you have any barriers, any challenges or concerns, that we literally walk with you and move from transactional relationships to personal relationships to help you persist and get through them."

Johanna "Jo" Adams, VCU Student Government Association president, told new students to remember that every fear and challenge is an opportunity for growth and development.

"Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek help and take chances and try to attend every lecture," Adams said. "I know it's hard. Explore, learn and make the most of every moment. While it may feel overwhelming and new, remember college is what you make of it, no matter what you are aspiring to become."

The Block Party offered students a wide range of activities. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

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