The third annual New Student Convocation will be held today in Northrop Auditorium with a special historical twist in honor of the sesquicentennial celebration.
University President Mark Yudof will welcome new students along with five upper-class students from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. The University Marching Band will also perform.
“Our research shows that students look to peers for reasons to stay in school,” said Verna Cornelia Simmons, director of the First-Year Experience and Leadership Programs, in a prepared statement. “We have more than 300 faculty and staff members signed up to volunteer at convocation. That shows a commitment to undergraduate students.”
Highlights include:
ù 4:30 p.m. — academic procession from Nolte Hall to Northrop Auditorium.
ù 4:45-5:25 p.m. — formal welcome from Yudof and advice from upper-class students.
ù 5:25 p.m. — marching band will lead students to the University Field House at 1800 University Ave. S.E.
ù 5:30-7:30 p.m. — dinner, music, prizes and other entertainment at the field house.

— Compiled from staff reports.