Welcome Weekend

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.”