The University’s 121st convocation marked the beginning of the new academic year and promised optimism and future stability for students, faculty and staff.

Convocation speakers marked the official beginning of a new academic year, encouraging students and faculty to unite and branch out in the community, to learn about other cultures and improve society.

Convocation speakers hailed a tech-savvy generation, encouraged new students to enjoy college within reason, and asked them to make a difference in the world – as so many Leopards have.

This year’s incoming freshmen were welcomed and introduced to the campus at this year’s University of La Verne convocation, where Associate Professor of Biology Jerome Garcia gave the keynote address.