With focus on diversity, Valparaiso University welcomes students
Valparaiso University‘s incoming class of freshman, graduate and transfer students was told to embrace the challenges ahead of them on a campus that will support them along the way.
Mark Heckler, the university’s president, and Hussein Shahine, president of the student body, talked about the things that set the university apart and bring the students together during the 89th annual Opening Convocation, held Tuesday in the Chapel of the Resurrection.
“Every one of us in this room has faced an obstacle that made us want to give up, but you wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for that perseverance,” Heckler said. “Valpo is distinguished from other universities in our shared desire to seek truth, serve generously and cultivate hope.”
University marshal Steven Engerer, chairman of the chemistry department, led the students, many of whom wore Valpo T-shirts, into the chapel.
The convocation also included recognizing newly tenured faculty, bestowing “shield of character” pins to students, and signing the university’s honor code, which Heckler said has been in place for more than 70 years.
Heckler said the incoming students included 223 new graduate and law students and 1,070 freshmen and transfer students, who represent communities across the United States and around the globe.
“It is exciting to see such diversity among you because Valpo is a place that intentionally brings people together from myriad backgrounds,” Heckler said. “Our increasingly diverse student body offers unique opportunities for meaningful dialogue across differences, cultures and experiences.”
College won’t be easy, Heckler said, and the students could expect both obstacles and the support to overcome them.
“Through the people you meet, the friends you make and the experiences you have, you will learn how to rise above those obstacles, to achieve your goals to experience the world through new eyes,” and become part of a diverse community on a collective journey, Heckler said, “no matter how hard at times it may be.”
Shahine, who graduates at the end of the academic year, roused the crowd with the college cheer before sharing his own experience as a new student, when he arrived with two suitcases, feeling lost.
He met the Rev. Charlene Cox, the university pastor.
“She welcomed me, and she set the tone for kindness at this university,” he said.
He urged his fellow classmates to live with genuine intentions and to always be a good person.
“Realize that others have challenges they hold on their shoulders but may never speak about,” he said, “so crack a smile, offer help when you can and always think the best of others and you will never go wrong. You will never be alone.”