As the first week of the new school year came to a close, Park students waited outside on the hot, humid Friday afternoon, Aug. 23, to attend the annual opening convocation.
Held in the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel, the invocation was led by Reverend Brian D. Ellison, who prayed for guidance for all Park students and faculty.
Once the invocation ended, Provost and Senior Vice President Jerry D. Jorgensen welcomed attendees and recognized groups like the Board of Trustees, Park Student Government Association and the Faculty Senate. Parkville Mayor Jim Brooks also attended the event.
“Parkville is your home away from home,” Brooks said. Mika Mahyenga, a PSGA member, also spoke at the convocation and encouraged his fellow students to motivate others to make a “difference in the world” and to see their inner strength.
“I’ve always been proud to be a Pirate,” he said.
Freshman students in attendance were also recognized by Jeff Ehrlich, who is president of the Faculty Senate.
“You’ve completed week one and you have 152 days to go,” said Ehrlich to freshman students.
He also encouraged students to be proud to be a Pirate and enjoy what Park University has to offer. University President Michael Droge also spoke at the convocation. Droge stressed the importance of attaining a college education.
In Droge’s speech, he discussed three stages in education – discovering doors, opening doors and keeping doors open.
First stage, discovering doors, Droge encouraged student to learn as much of the world as possible and be open to new experiences.
The second stage was opening doors and succeeding.
“Park’s promise is education for life and will be here for your educational life,” he said.
Droge encouraged students to build a network that aligns with individual goals and majors. He also encouraged students to attend the 10th annual Career and Internship Fair Tuesday, Sept. 17, on campus.
“Employers like Park students and want them,” Droge said. The President also discussed three attributes that are crucial for opening doors. He said students need integrity, a positive attitude and emotional intelligence.
Third and final stage Droge highlighted was focused on keeping doors open. He stressed that maintaining and safeguarding your reputation are crucial elements toward success. The convocation ended with students and faculty singing the alma mater and taking part in a free lunch.
