Hartwick College campus view of pergola on Founders' Way

Opening Convocation

2025 Ceremony

The Hartwick community gathered on Friday, August 22, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. in Lambros Arena of the Binder Physical Education Center to welcome new students during this year’s Opening Convocation. The time-honored ceremony marks the official start of the academic year.

The ceremony included remarks from President James Mullen, Faculty Speaker: Associate Professor of Psychology Bill Kowalczyk, Student Speaker: Student Government Association President Amelia Williams ’26.

Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Laurel Bongiorno will welcome the new class.

Opening Convocation Highlights - 2025

Class of 2029 Opening Convocation Class Photo
Swoop leading the Class of 2029 into Lambros Arena for Opening Convocation Ceremony
Student Government Association President Amelia Williams ’26 rings the Hartwick Bell to begin Opening Convocation Ceremony
Hartwick College President James Mullen speaking at Opening Convocation for the Class of 2029
Dr. Laurel Bongiorno, Vice President for Academic Affairs & Provost, speaking during Opening Convocation for the Class of 2029
Student Government Association President Amelia Williams ’26 speaking during Opening Convocation for the Class of 2029
Opening Convocation Hartwick College Alma Mater performed
Pipe and Drum Band playing at Hartwick College Opening Convocation Ceremony
Hartwick College members of the Class of 2029 sign the Matriculation Book after Opening Convocation Ceremony