Once again, a new semester at IVCC was started off with the New Student Convocation on Aug. 17.
First held in 2007, the convocation is a way for new students to get oriented with the school, learn about clubs, and get to know some of the faculty and staff as well as their fellow students.
While in the past the convocation was held in the first few weeks of school, this year the convocation was scheduled before the first day of attendance.
Incoming first time IVCC students gathered in the gym, where the convocation was being held while the Peter Miller Community Technology Center is being constructed, and were entertained by Andrew Loebach and Zach Buckley.
Loebach and Buckley, members of SPAMO and the Improv team, chatted with the audience and led them in a wave to get them loose and ready for the day ahead.
Lori Scroggs, vice president for learning and student development, was the emcee for the event.
Speakers included IVCC president Jerry Corcoran, instructors Norm Engstrom and David Kuester, Tracy Morris, associate vice president for student services, instructor and faculty excellence award winner Lori Cinotte, student government president Omar Aburomi and student trustee Britney Burkart.
Topics ranged from the meaning behind the robes, sashes and hats worn by the faculty to succeeding at and after college.

After the convocation students were divided into breakout sessions. These sessions offered more information on what to expect at the college and to address any questions the students may have had. Faculty and staff from Jacob’s Library and the Learning Commons did a presentation to help students get familiar with the many services available on campus.
After the breakout sessions, students gathered in the cafeteria and courtyard for a free bag lunch and games. Booths from various clubs and organizations were placed around the courtyard for students to get information and sign up. Activities were available, including a paper airplane toss, bean bags, making a wax hand and a photo booth. Local band “Shooting Park”, fronted by Buckley along with IVCC students Cazden Lash, Shelby Wroczynski , Ethan Smith, and Mike Znaniecki entertained the crowd with music.
Students were encouraged to take a tour of the campus to get to know the layout. Staff was on hand to take Student ID pictures and help students get their books and supplies.
Normally held in conjunction with Spirit Day, an afternoon of fun and games, Convocation was held separately this year. Spirit Day will be on Sept. 12. (see story page 5 )