Most Reverend Earl Fernandes, who was recently ordained and installed as
the 13th Bishop of the Diocese of Columbus, will officiate a special
Mass at 2:30 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel, which is located in
Sansbury Hall (building #8 on the campus map).
Immediately following Mass, Bishop Fernandes will deliver the keynote
address during Convocation at 4 p.m. on the Oval, located in front of
Erskine Hall. During Convocation, new students will sign the Book of
Matriculation, which contains the names of students as they begin their
education and is presented at their Commencement. Following Convocation,
all attendees are invited to enjoy a free picnic-style dinner on the
Oval.
“Convocation is one of the university traditions that I most look
forward to because it’s all about new beginnings,” ODU President Connie
Gallaher said. “This is a special opportunity for members of our campus
community to come together to welcome new Panthers, enjoy each other’s
company and get energized about all of the possibilities that come with a
new academic year. I am grateful to Bishop Fernandes for his
willingness and eagerness to help us create a special and memorable
moment at ODU, and especially in the lives of our new students and their
families as they begin this exciting new chapter.”