Convocation 2025: Welcome Home, Cougars!
Convocation marks the beginning of new students' College of Charleston journey.
On Monday, Aug. 18, at 10 a.m., incoming students will participate in the annual convocation program. Convocation is an event that marks the beginning of an academic year.
First-year and transfer students will be led to Porter’s Lodge and into the Cistern Yard for the convocation program. In this symbolic tradition, students begin their academic journey by walking through Porter’s Lodge and conclude their academic journey by departing through Porter’s Lodge at the end of graduation.
“August is so exciting at the College of Charleston,” says Alicia Caudill, executive vice president of student affairs. “It’s an important time to welcome our newest students and it’s a welcome back for all of our returning students. August bursts with potential of all that our students will accomplish in this coming year. Welcome home to all of our Cougars!”
Convocation Day Celebration Schedule
- 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. – New Transfer Student Breakfast with President Andrew T. Hsu in the Rita Liddy Hollings Science Center, rooms 102 and 103
- 9:30 a.m. – College community arrives on George Street between St. Philip and Coming streets to welcome new students through Porter’s Lodge (rain location: outside Johnson Center at 30 George Street)
- 9:40 to 10 a.m. – RAs and student leaders lead students through Porter’s Lodge into the Cistern Yard
- 10 a.m. – Convocation ceremony in the Cistern Yard featuring President Hsu, Provost Suzanne Austin and Student Government Association representatives (rain location: Johnson Center gym)
- 10:30 a.m. – After convocation, students are encouraged to visit campus resources and enjoy lunch in one of the campus dining facilities
- 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. – Maroon Mayhem, a Weeks of Welcome signature event for all students, takes place in and around the Cistern Yard
