The University of Michigan officially greeted the Class of 2029 on August 24 at the annual New Student Convocation held in Crisler Center. University leaders, faculty, and student representatives encouraged the new Wolverines to seize the opportunities provided by a U-M education. Over 7,000 first-year and transfer students filled the arena, marking the start of their academic journey.
The ceremony opened with a processional by the University of Michigan Ensemble, followed by the national anthem sung by Lilly Hunwick, a junior from the School of Music Theatre & Dance. President Domenico Grasso addressed the new students, acknowledging their mix of excitement and anxiety, echoing his own college experience. “I was petrified. Absolutely petrified,” he recalled.
Grasso shared that he was the first in his family to attend college and reassured students that feeling anxious is normal. “You’re bright and talented, and you will do well. That’s why we admitted you and wanted you to be part of our community,” he assured them. Grasso emphasized the resources available at U-M, from renowned professors to advanced technology, while cautioning about artificial intelligence.
“AI is not perfect, at least not yet,” he said. “Never forget that AI is a tool, and tools can sometimes be misused.” He stressed that AI should enhance human learning, pointing to U-M’s focus on ‘HL’ — human learning. Displaying a t-shirt reading “HAIL,” Grasso declared, “Your brain is the most important tool. At Michigan, we hail human intellect, diversity of thought, and academic integrity. No app can replace that.”
Highlighting U-M’s impact, Grasso spoke of alumnus Raoul Wallenberg, a humanitarian who saved thousands during World War II. Grasso quoted Wallenberg’s words about his time in Ann Arbor, emphasizing the university’s transformative experience. “Ann Arbor and U-M will become a home you won’t want to leave,” he told the Class of 2029. “We will hail your achievements.”
The purpose of college
Provost Laurie McCauley discussed the opportunities at U-M, urging students to reflect on the purpose of higher education. Introducing the Year of Life-Changing Education theme, she asked if they aimed to expand their worldview, serve society, grow personally, or gain skills. Her answer: all of the above.
“The next time somebody asks what you’re doing in college, tell them, ‘All of it. I’m making friends, becoming an intellectual powerhouse, making the world better, and getting a life-changing education,’” McCauley advised. She also announced “Talking Maize and Blue,” a new program promoting civil discourse among diverse perspectives.
Praise for a job well done — and yet to be done
Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Adele Brumfield praised the Class of 2029 for their resilience during a global pandemic. “That resilience, adaptability and courage will serve you well here,” she stated. She congratulated them for standing out among over 115,000 applicants, attributing their success to dedication and grit.
Vice President for Student Life Martino Harmon encouraged students to view knowledge as a “superpower” that brings great responsibility, urging them to contribute to the campus community with their ideas and enthusiasm.
Honest advice from student leadership
Central Student Government President Eric Veal Jr. shared candid insights, telling students, “You’re going to fail.” He emphasized that failure leads to growth and encouraged embracing uncertainty and new experiences. “College is a place where trying new things is the entire point,” he remarked.
The event concluded with President Grasso inviting students to sing along with the alma mater and U-M fight song. The program featured performances by Amazin’ Blue, the all-gender a cappella group, and U-M’s Fanfare Band. Students were then invited to a tailgate at the Postma Clubhouse at U-M’s Golf Course.
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