Dragons Take Flight

Academic Convocation 2025

PROGRAM

Processional

Marina Gorelaya, Lecturer, Performing Arts

Welcome Remarks

President Erik. J. Bitterbaum

National Anthem

Olivia Celis, Musical Theater Major

Presentation of Students

President Erik J. Bitterbaum

Presentation of Faculty

Provost Ann McClellan

Faculty Convocation Address

Dr. Kathleen Lawrence, Professor of Communication Studies and Faculty Senate President

Student President Convocation Address

Parker Arenas, President of the Student Government Association

Concluding Remarks

Provost Ann McClellan

Alma Mater

Olivia Celis, Musical Theater Major

Recessional

Marina Gorelaya, Lecturer, Performing Arts

A reception for students and faculty will immediately follow in the Park Center Alumni Arena.

__________

First Week of Classes

It’s your time to take flight and soar, new Red Dragons!  Here are some ideas on how to launch yourself into a successful semester.

1. Attend Academic Convocation and then meet your professors on Sunday, August 24, at 3:00 p.m. in the Student Life Center!
   
   What is Convocation?

• It is the official kickoff of the academic year and the start of your academic career at SUNY Cortland. Hear words of welcome and wisdom from the President, Provost, Faculty Senate Chair, and student leaders.
• Take your first opportunity to meet as a whole class in one space, one of the few chances to do this until you come together to celebrate graduation in a few years!
• Then chat casually with your professors and some of your upper-level peers in your major over refreshments.

2. Join Welcome Week activities!

• Meet other students and fellow residents.
• Learn about how to get involved in SUNY Cortland’s many clubs and recreation opportunities.
• Explore internships, student employment, and study abroad options.
• Get to know the campus and the Cortland community.
• Enjoy food, music, and games.

3. Check your class schedule again to make sure you know your class locations.
   Log in to myRedDragon, Student Tab, to view your schedule and review your building location codes to know where your classes are located.  Some classes might have shifted to different classrooms to accommodate class size or other course needs.
4. During drop/add (from Monday, August 25 at 8:00 AM to Friday, August 29 at 4:00 PM) you can make changes to your schedule through myRedDragon.
   No PIN is necessary. It is important to identify open classes that you are eligible to pursue before dropping enrolled courses or making changes. You may not be able to get back into a course you drop. You are encouraged to speak with your advisor prior to making changes to your schedule. Advisors in Advisement and Transition are also in Memorial Library, Room A-111 to assist with schedule adjustments.
5. Connect with campus resources to find the information and support you need.
   Visit Advisement and Transition’s Guide to Student Success as a starting point. The Guide to Student Success contains helpful information about academic and student life and provides links to additional resources.
6. Check your email regularly for important information from your instructors about your classes.
7. Take some time to take care of yourself, get some good sleep, and nutritious meals.