After spending the day getting settled at the residence halls, many new Sooners will gather for a welcome ceremony at 4 p.m. today in Lloyd Noble Center.

New Sooner Convocation is a time for incoming freshmen and transfer students to get acquainted with the OU community through the help of a keynote speaker. An ice cream social and barbecue on the Walker-Adams Mall will follow the ceremony.

"This is their first academic introduction to [OU], so we want to make it a positive experience," said Catherine Bishop, vice president for Public Affairs.

Although OU President David L. Boren will not speak at the convocation ceremony because of the back surgery he underwent Friday, Doug Gaffin, dean of University College, will welcome the students in his place.

"One of [Boren's] favorite events is being able to greet new students, but Dean Gaffin will deliver a warm welcome as well," Bishop said.

Gaffin said while he looks forward to hearing Boren speak each year, he appreciates the opportunity to share his perspective as a faculty member with the students.

"I never get tired of hearing President Boren talk about all of the possibilities, so I am going to try to share some of his highlights," Gaffin said.

He said he will discuss resources available on campus, such as tutoring services and lectures that could prove helpful for freshmen. He said many students are not aware of all the services available to them.

"I also want to encourage them to not specialize too soon and take advantage of the different classes and renowned professors at the university," Gaffin said.

Chelsea Render, UOSA president and international business and marketing senior, will also guide the new Sooners to a successful college career.

Render will speak on how to make the most out of college.

The ceremony also benefits parents, Bishop said.

"Students are encouraged to bring their families so that they can see that their student is joining a family-not just a community, but a family," Bishop said. "Parents love to see the family side of OU."

Gaffin said he thinks New Sooner Convocation is reassuring for parents who send their children to college.

"It really is a sad time to say goodbye, but parents must share in the excitement that their kids are experiencing, and convocation helps them to do that," Gaffin said.

In order to encourage more students and their parents to attend the ceremony, a trolley will provide transportation from the housing areas to Lloyd Noble Center.

Other OU staff members will also address the audience, including Nancy Mergler, senior vice president and provost, and Charles Goodnight, chairman of the OU ring committee.

"I hope they benefit as much as they would benefit from hearing President Boren," Gaffin said.

He said he intends to convey the excitement of the day through his speech.

"I think this is my favorite day of the year because it's like a community forms overnight," Gaffin said. "Everything is just charged with excitement."

Blake Rambo, OU press secretary, said the convocation will provide a traditional greeting to new students.

"It is usually the president's opportunity, and this time the universities' opportunity, to welcome students to the community," Rambo said.
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