Convocation marks start of new year

Pictured is Convocation 2011.

Convocation marks the formal start to the academic year. This year's ceremony is set for 11:30 a.m. Friday, August 24, in the Fieldhouse Arena.

Thousands of first-year, transfer and returning students will watch faculty and staff members process into the arena. President Thomas J. Haas, Faculty Senate Chair Figen Mekik and Student Senate President Jack Iott will all make remarks.

Prior to Convocation, Haas will present his annual faculty and staff Opening Address at 10 a.m. in the Performing Arts Center, Louis Armstrong Theatre.

The all-campus picnic lunch for students, faculty and staff will be served from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in parking lot C, adjacent to the Fieldhouse.