Stony Brook University welcomed new and returning students to campus for the 2023-2024 academic year, with a variety of events and programs highlighting what it means to be a Seawolf.
President Maurie McInnis presided over the freshman convocation Aug. 23 at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium and the transfer student convocation Aug. 25 on the Staller Center main stage, noting that students are coming to Stony Brook.at a time of incredible excitement and promise.
“In the past year alone, we have led the state as a flagship research institution, launched the groundbreaking New York Climate Exchange, received a historic endowment gift, welcomed our first class of Simons STEM Scholars, and hired researchers internationally renowned and award-winning. faculty,” she said.
McInnis also emphasized to students that the university community is there to support them every step of the way.
“Our fundamental strength lies in the support and consideration we show for each other,” McInnis said. “We show up for each other. We are neighbors. We remain open and curious about each other. Here we cultivate the heart and the head.
McInnis told students about her own undergraduate journey, when a course on ancient Greek art reoriented her academic path from biology (she wanted to become an orthopedic surgeon) to art history, and leading to a new vocation as an educator.
McInnis encouraged students to cultivate their curiosity and challenge themselves.
“Take classes outside of your comfort zone,” she advised. “Challenge yourself to not only figure out what you want to do after you graduate, but also Why You want to do it. The people who are most satisfied with their careers are those who feel a deep connection with a goal to achieve.
The freshman graduation also included performances by the KBS and Africa dance teams, a speech by student speaker Zaya Daniel, remarks by Dean of Students Ric McClendon and Executive Vice President and Dean Carl Lejuez, as well as the presentation of Teaching Awards Celebration. The students closed the event by taking a class photo on the football field.
The transfer student convocation at the Staller Center included a performance by the Spirit of Stony Brook band and a speech by transfer student speaker Daniel Cavanin.
The students began moving in on August 21 and, once settled, they had the choice of numerous activities during the “Welcome Weeks (WOW)” organized by the association. Student Affairs Division. Events and programming include an outdoor skating rink on the Student Activities Center (SAC) plaza, films, games, musical performances, comedy, food, sporting events and much more.
Visit SB Engagé for a complete list of WOW events. New students also have access to an online guide to all things Stony Brook at Welcome to the SBU website.
Students also participated in New Seawolf Welcome Week, an experience aimed at acclimating them to Stony Brook and introducing them to faculty, staff and other students. Each student has a unique schedule of assigned workshops as well as “Choose Your Own” workshops.
The Center for Service Learning and Community Service held its third annual Community Service Day on August 26, as students volunteered for a series of 16 service projects that benefited the campus and community local. Campus Dining also offered a special program of culinary events for Welcome Week.
Classes for the fall semester began on Monday, August 28.
