Class of 2026 Encouraged to Embrace Exploration

By Grace Collins '22, August 19, 2022

Fall 2022 Convocation officially welcomes the newest cohort to the Ithaca College community.

Some 1,400 first-year and transfer students officially began their Ithaca College journeys at Convocation in Glazer Arena in the Athletics & Events Center.

(Photo Credit: Rachel Philipson)

Students entering Glazer Arena to the sound of thunderous applause and cheers from the faculty and staff members lined up to greet them. (Photo Credit: Danica Fisher '05)

Different moments throughout a student’s transition to college will remind them that they are welcomed and celebrated in their new college community, from feeling at home in their dorm room to their first outing with a new group of friends. For the Ithaca College Class of 2026, Wednesday’s Convocation celebration brought that sentiment of belonging to life.

Some 1,400 first-year and transfer students officially began their Ithaca College journeys, entering Glazer Arena in the Athletics & Events Center to the sound of thunderous applause and cheers from the faculty and staff members lined up to greet them.

“It really felt good to be welcomed like that,” said Liam Kearney, a music education major from East Islip, New York. “It makes you feel like you’re meant to be here.”

Once students, faculty, staff, and honored guests had processed into their seats, accompanied by performers from the West African Drumming and Dance Ensemble, keynote speakers took to the stage to formally welcome the students and impart words of wisdom to carry with them over the next four years.

An overarching theme throughout the speakers’ remarks was the encouragement for students to embrace the unknown and explore all the opportunities available to them at IC throughout their time on South Hill. Melanie Stein, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs, highlighted this topic during her opening remarks.

“I want to remind you that college, and life, is all about exploring,” said Stein. “In your IC journey, I encourage you to explore. Explore our rich curriculum. Take classes with different departments or schools, and engage with people who seem different from you. Explore activities both on and off campus. Explore Ithaca and the natural beauty of this region. Cross every boundary you can, because you never know where your exploring may lead and where you’ll discover something that truly excites you.”

President Cornish speaks to new students during Convocation. (Photo Credit: Rachel Philipson)

Stein then introduced La Jerne Terry Cornish, the 10th president of Ithaca College. For Cornish, who entered the role this past spring after a term as interim president, the 2022-23 academic year marks her first full year as president, making the Class of 2026 her inaugural class.

In her address to the students, President Cornish shared her hopes for them as they embark on their college careers.

“What unites us together, and what unites you, is a commitment to exploration,” said Cornish. “Discovering who you are and what you want to do with your life is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and others, so it is my sincere hope that you begin your time here in the spirit of exploration.”

Cornish also spoke to her excitement to see the impact that the incoming class will have on Ithaca College, reflecting on a message she shared with accepted students this past spring.

“If you joined us for Admitted Students’ Day, you heard me say Ithaca College is not simply a place that can transform you — it is a place that will be transformed by you,” she said. “Welcome to the beginning of our transformation.”

“I'm at a primarily undergraduate institution so that I can mentor and guide your generation, and it’s because of that that I'm always excited to meet with students in the classroom, in the lab, and at on-campus organizations and activities. Invest yourself in this community. This is your home for the next four years, and the better the community is, the more you will benefit both collectively and as individuals.”

Te-Wen Lo, associate professor of biology

Following President Cornish, Te-Wen Lo, associate professor of biology, spoke. Lo, who specializes in genetic research, has dedicated her career to promoting STEM participation in under-represented populations, particularly women.

Lo reflected on her own collegiate experience and shared stories of lessons she’d learned and challenges she’d faced. One key message from her speech was the importance of mentorship and community.

“Mentorship is why I chose to be here,” she said. “I'm at a primarily undergraduate institution so that I can mentor and guide your generation, and it’s because of that that I'm always excited to meet with students in the classroom, in the lab, and at on-campus organizations and activities. Invest yourself in this community. This is your home for the next four years, and the better the community is, the more you will benefit both collectively and as individuals.”

Grace Madeya ’23, president of the Student Governance Council speaks at Convocation. (Photo Credit: Rachel Philipson)

The final speaker of the day was Grace Madeya ’23, president of the Student Governance Council. Madeya continued with the day’s themes of exploring the unknown and embracing the IC community.

“You have a new opportunity to explore your interests and find your place in this great community,” Madeya said. “I also want to challenge you to find ways you can give back. Whether that's through stepping up as a student, volunteering in the greater Ithaca area, or being a friendly face in the classroom, you'll have so many opportunities to give to those around you. Finding your way takes time, so don't be afraid to try something new. Take those risks, make mistakes, and don't be afraid.”

The ceremony concluded with time-honored traditions as students stood to put on their Class of 2026 pins, designed by students, faculty, and staff. They then sang the alma mater, “Ithaca Forever,” led by students from the School of Music, Theater, and Dance, and smiled for a class photo.

Students celebrating at Convocation.

(Photo Credit: Rachel Philipson)

Following Convocation, attendees convened for a community picnic where they were able to chat with familiar faces and build new connections.

Ariana Wunderle, an exploratory student from Rockingham, Vermont, and Mia Emmi, an occupational therapy major from Ipswich, Mass., both shared that Convocation made them feel welcomed into the campus community.

“Everyone here at IC has been super welcoming,” said Wunderle. “Coming to college is such a big change, but they’ve been so friendly and it’s making it so much less intimidating.”

“It meant so much to have the faculty there to cheer for us,” Emmi added. “It was so nice to see everyone there to celebrate, and I’m so excited to be here and start something new.”

Convocation Ceremony on Wednesday, August 17, 2022.