New college students at Central State University F.O.C.U.S. on academic journey
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on September 01, 2022 Central State University welcomed over 600 new students, faculty, and staff during a special ceremony recently, formally marking the start of students’ post-secondary education. The Convocation started at 10 a.m. in the Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Auditorium. During the ceremony, students recited their Freshman Commitment Pledge, concluding with the words, “I will persevere and strive to overcome any challenges to obtaining my degree, and most importantly, I will always be devoted to my Alma Mater, For God, For Central, For State.” Each student received a three-strand cord that represents a historical milestone and creates a new chapter of their collegiate academic journey. The Convocation program says the three strands interwoven attest to the call to the academic task at hand, which is to persist and graduate: “like a true Marauder, you must strive to become productive citizens that make major contributions to our communities as Centralians.” Dr. Jack Thomas, Central State University President, was the keynote speaker. He said, “Now that you are here, obtaining success at Central State University requires that you remain focused for the entire time that you are here. I would like to take this opportunity and use the word FOCUS to further explain the things you need to have in order to be a successful student and to have an excellent experience at this University. F is for Friends. Now that you are here, you should seek Friends. Although Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil’ Wayne said, ‘No New Friends,’ we at Central State encourage you to make a lot of new friends and meet as many new people as you can. Some of the people you meet here will become life-long friends. However, the social aspects of college cannot be more important than your academic life. O is for Observe. Now that you are here, you should observe successful students and the behaviors they exhibit to be successful. You should emulate these behaviors. C is for Conquer. Now that you are here, you must conquer your fears and any challenges that you may face. Assess your strengths and weaknesses and then become determined to conquer your weaknesses. U is for Understand. In and outside of the classroom, you should attempt to understand and gain new knowledge in every class and conversation. S is for Study. Now that you are here, you must study hard, and then study some more. For every hour that you spend in class, you should spend at least an hour and a half more studying. If you need assistance, please do not be afraid to ask for help.” The celebratory event also marked the first time students represented the class of 2026 as a united group, and met the faculty who, during the next four or more years, will share what may be some of the most memorable experiences of their lives. The ceremony, which all first-years were required to attend, was streamed live and is currently available to view online at Facebook Live and YouTube Live @centralstate87. About Central State University: Central State University is a public HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution with a 135-year tradition of preparing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences for leadership, research, and service. Central State ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s best colleges in five categories, including Best Undergraduate Engineering Program and Top Public Schools. The University fosters academic excellence within a nurturing environment and provides a solid liberal arts foundation and STEM-Ag curriculum leading to professional careers and advanced studies globally. EEO Statement: Central State University, an 1890 Land Grant Institution, is committed to the full inclusion of all people and does not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV / AIDS states, marital or family status, military status, national origin political beliefs, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. If reasonable accommodations are needed, please contact the Department of Human Resources at (937) 376-6540. Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity institution If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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