Convocation: “A Wilson Tale”
Photo by Sharielle Lawrence-Cadet
Convocation is one of Wilsons’ long-standing traditions that unifies the Wilson community. President Barbara Mistick, welcomed the largest incoming class in the past forty years, new faculty, and three new trustees. The college also welcomed new Dean of Faculty, Dr. Elissa Heil and new Dean of Students, Dr. Marybeth Williams.
Heil urged the crowd “to press the pause button,” and to take the time to think bigger and to think Wilson. The choir serenaded onlookers with harmonies, and Ms. Plasterer accompanied on the organ.
Dr. Michael Cornelius, lovingly called “Dr. C” by the student body, delivered this year’s convocation address. He spoke about an alumnus that left Wilson without the true understanding of what Wilson stands for.
According to Cornelius, we must look past the perceived lacks because we all want air-conditioning in our rooms, more parking spaces, and more time.
The lack of a male residential body was not what defined the excellent four-year liberal arts education that Wilson provides. The spirit of Wilson is the combination of our sense of family, tradition, community and confidence. Cornelius reminded everyone that the spirit of Wilson is created by the “transformations and revolutions that occur within us.”
Wilson students enter with an idea of what they want to study, and they leave Wilson confident in their education. The amount of opportunities available to students throughout their time at Wilson molds them into becoming strong, independent, educated, and capable of pursuing a career in their field.
WCGA President Ghada Tafesh ‘15 gave a short, yet powerful address to the students. She encouraged the student body to “participate fully in the life of the college, because we are Wilson College. It is an amazing thing, and demands hard work.”
New Wilson community members signed the Honor Principal, swearing to abide by the governing rules. The Honor Principle is “the communal thread” that binds the campus community together. Hard work involves going outside of one’s comfort zone, participating in activities, and striving to succeed.
Tafesh related to Cornelius’ speech when she said, “Unity is strength. Look out for each other, and show your commitment.”
Convocation ended with the recessional out of the Thomson Alumnae Chapel for the conclusion of the Song Wars on the lawn.
Welcome Evens. Beware Odds.