‘We are AU!’ Class of 2029 welcomed at Freshman Convocation

An afternoon summer rainstorm couldn’t dampen the excitement surrounding Augusta University’s Freshman Convocation for the Class of 2029.

Hosted by the Office of First and Second Year Experiences, with university-wide support from faculty, staff and campus partners, Freshman Convocation kick-starts students’ academic journeys at Augusta University.

The purpose of convocation is to establish a connection between first-year students and AU by emphasizing the university’s commitment to their academic success. Convocation also serves as first-year students’ introduction to university traditions, such as the ringing of the Arsenal Bell and throwing a penny to make a wish in the Russell A. Blanchard Fountain.

Prior to the official ceremony, students enjoyed a special convocation pre-show live production of AU’s official podcast, “In the Wild,” hosted by Raysean Ricks, senior digital communications coordinator and podcast host. During the pre-show, first-year students were treated to educational, dynamic and encouraging conversations with faculty, administration and students.

During the energetic main event, students heard from university leadership, including Augusta University President Russell T. Keen, First Lady Karen B. Keen and Provost Maggy G. Tomova, PhD. Students participated in their class pinning ceremony and took their official class photo.

Tomova shared her excitement for the Class of 2029 as she embarks on the beginning of her AU career alongside this class.

“You’re my first class, so you’re going to be my favorite class forever,” said Tomova.

Student Government Association President John Blalock encouraged students to pursue these next four years with boldness.

“This experience doesn’t just happen; you have to make it happen,” Blalock said. “Don’t be passive; don’t treat college like a Netflix show, something you just binge and forget. Write your own script, direct it and star in it.”

After the ceremony, students joined one another for dinner in the Jaguar Student Activities Center and had the opportunity to meet and mingle with their classmates, as well as faculty and staff from their respective colleges and schools. Students also enjoyed pie and ice cream from President and First Lady Keen, which was a nod to a motivating story First Lady Keen has shared about getting their “piece of the pie” during their college career.

“My favorite part of convocation is the introduction to all the traditions we offer our students, for example, the Arsenal Bell, the class pinning ceremony, the alma mater, the class photo and now the president’s chant, ‘We are … AU,’” Elizabeth Huggins, EdD, director of the Office of First and Second Year Experiences said. “Convocation invites our students to become part of our Augusta University family and establishes a sense of belonging on the front end of college.”

The Class of 2029 is projected to be one of AU’s largest classes, with over 1,300 students.

Andres Veloz, a first-year cybersecurity major from Baltimore, Maryland, said he chose AU for its cybersecurity program and connection to Fort Gordon, home of U.S. Army Cyber Command. While he’s looking forward to studies in the School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, he’s also got his sights set on basketball season.

“I’m most excited for AU’s school spirit and sports, specifically the basketball program. I’m excited to go and watch them play,” Veloz said.

Some students, like incoming Augusta-area student Ruby Lima, chose Augusta University because they wanted to stay close to home. As a pre-nursing major, Lima is looking forward to being part of the medical community.

“AU has a great medical program, and that was also important to me. After graduation, I want to do pediatric nursing, but I’m excited to learn more about the field,” said Lima.

Noah Campbell, a native of Conyers, Georgia, is pursuing a degree in graphic design at AU. He’s always loved creating things and is looking forward to his design classes to learn more about this field.

“AU stood out to me because of the variety of courses that you can find in designing, and there are many areas I’ve never seen before,” said Campbell. “I’m most excited to make friends and try to fit in.”