As the first week of classes comes to an end, Oglethorpe’s newest students gathered in the Conant Performing Arts Center for Convocation 2026, an annual academic celebration.

Students were welcomed by President Kathryn McClymond, Ph.D., followed by honor council member Briley Elder ’27, who introduced students to Oglethorpe’s Honor Code before they signed it. The code is a formal pledge of academic integrity that outlines the responsibilities students accept as members of the OU community and the procedures they will follow should their commitment to honesty be called into question.

“One of the biggest lessons Oglethorpe has taught me is how to trust myself in situations where I do not immediately know the answer,” said Elder. “You have to use what you have learned, ask the right questions, and make the best decision you can with the information you have.”

Other speakers at this year’s Convocation included Assistant Professor of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies and Honor Council Director Anna Ziering, Ph.D. and Oglethorpe’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Gabriel Barreneche, Ph.D.

“Over the course of the next year, you will feel the pressure to answer family and friends with certainty about your academic path and have a clear professional plan,” said Dr. Barreneche. “Let me challenge you to be open to the journey. Allow yourself to be transformed by the experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom at OU.”

The celebration concluded with the Oglethorpe University Singers, conducted by Assistant Professor of Music Andrew Schmidt, Ph.D., who led new students in singing Oglethorpe’s alma mater and fight song.