Annual Meeting Welcomes the Class of 2028 – The Rocky Mountain Collegian

Colorado State University formally welcomed the incoming class of 2028 during Convocation, which served as a precursor to the incoming student season at CSU. With speeches from CSU faculty and guest speaker Stephen Brackett, Moby Arena was filled with cheers and chants that could only signal an exciting new beginning on Friday, August 16.

Blanche Hughes, Vice President for Student Affairs, spoke early in the event and welcomed the students warmly, emphasizing community.

“As you explore the campus, you will find this ‘Find your energy“graphics,” Hughes said. “Finding your energy is representative of the CSU mission. Believe that everyone, no matter where you come from, can find their place at Colorado State University and receive a world-class education.”

Convocation is an annual tradition at CSU, marking the beginning of an academic journey, much like graduation marks the end. This year, students were organized by college, whereas previously they were organized by dorm.

“You are exactly where you need to be. … The word convocation means ‘to call together,’ and today we call your entire class together to mark the beginning of this remarkable journey.” –Amy Parsons, President of CSU

During the various speeches, Nick DeSalvo, president of the Associated Students of CSU, spoke extensively about his time at CSU and the wisdom he gained from it.

“My experience here has changed the course of my life,” DeSalvo said. “I know it can, and I know it can do the same thing for you if you take every opportunity that this place gives you. Get involved on campus, and it will make all the difference in your experience here.”

After his speech, there was a break for the Golden Poms and some CSU slogans. DeSalvo introduced CSU President Amy Parsons, who welcomed the new class.

“You are exactly where you are meant to be,” Parsons said. “The word convocation means ‘to call together,’ and today we are calling your entire class together to mark the beginning of this remarkable journey. CSU will be there from day one — which is today — through your graduation and the rest of your lives.”

After Parsons spoke, she introduced the guest speaker: musician and CSU alumnus Stephen Brackett. Best known for his music group, Flobots, Brackett has also been named Colorado’s music ambassadorBrackett spoke about his time at CSU and what he wanted to share with the new generation.

“There is no better place or time to figure out who you are and who you want to be,” Brackett said.

One of Brackett’s most common stories was how he breakdance club.

“In 1997, I was a 6-foot-5 black nerd when society didn’t know what that meant,” Brackett said. “We didn’t have the best representation. … I found my people here. We started a breakdancing club. We had about 400 people join our club. Pretty soon the university was paying us to dance and reach people all over the state.”

Brackett left the class of 2028 not only with interesting stories, but also with encouragement.

“You will find your people here if you are brave enough to look for them,” Brackett said.

Contact Aubree Miller at [email protected] or on Twitter @aubreem07.