Boston convocation welcomes new Huskies to Northeastern
Convocation is the first time the Class of 2030 will gather, and it is the last time that the class will gather until their commencement.
It’s Back to School time and, for many new Northeastern students, it’s a time of firsts: first roommate, first dorm room, first experience rolling out of bed and racing to a morning class.
To kick off the year, there’s another first: convocation.
“Convocation is a global event that we host welcoming new undergraduate students to the Northeastern experience and the Northeastern campus community,” said Chelsea Kryspin, associate director of academic ceremonies and signature events in the advancement office at Northeastern.
“It’s an opportunity for the students to learn about Northeastern and for us to celebrate what makes Northeastern so special,” Kryspin said. “It is a signature, banner event.”
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Convocation ceremonies kick off the 2026-2027 academic year and represent the first time that the Class of 2030 will gather. It is also the last time that the class will assemble as one until their commencement.
Boston Convocation will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 11 a.m. EST at MGM Music Hall at Fenway, a live music venue at 2 Lansdowne St. in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston.
Students are scheduled to arrive on a staggered schedule according to their residence hall. Residential advisors will guide students to the event, walking through the Fens as a group. A shuttle will be available for those needing disability-related mobility assistance.
President Joseph E. Aoun is scheduled to welcome Boston students, and he will be joined by featured alumna Samantha Johnson, who graduated with a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in bioengineering in 2021 and founded Tatum Robotics. Johnson was also the first place winner of the 2022 Innovator Awards given out by the Northeastern’s Women Who Empower platform for developing a robotic arm that can sign in American Sign Language.
Academic leaders will also greet and introduce themselves to new students, and current students will highlight some of the many organizations and clubs that the new students can participate in.
“Expect more than just speeches. Students should look forward to lots of high energy performances, music, dancing, and fun interactive experiences.” Kryspin said.
Students will also witness a ceremonial torch lighting to mark the beginning of their Northeastern journey.
So, how should students prepare?
Kryspin said students are encouraged to show their Northeastern pride by wearing red or black, or Northeastern gear such as T-shirts or sweatshirts to convocation. And bring your Husky card, but please note that no outside water bottles or bags will be allowed.
Also, while the event is only for students, a livestream for parents or families who may still be on campus will be playing at 300 Richards Hall.
Following the ceremony, the class together will head back to campus for Fall Fest, an opportunity for students to learn about the myriad student activities, clubs and teams offered at the university, enjoy food, fun and interact with their new classmates.
“Convocation is the capstone for Welcome Week that really sets the course for the academic year and leads into the classes that begin the next day,” Kryspin said. “You don’t want to miss it. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
