Convocation 2026
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Center for Performing Arts (CPA)
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
For attendees requiring accessibility accommodations, including hearing assistance, captioning services, mobility assistance, or other accommodations, please contact the Office of Disability Services prior to the event.
SSD is now accepting accommodation requests for convocation. Complete this Disability Services Accommodations Form if you are a student in need of an accommodation, a student whose guest is in need of an accommodation, or a staff/faculty member in need of an accommodation. GovState credentials are needed to log in to complete the form.
If you have any questions, please contact the Access Services for Students with Disabilities Office at 708.235.3968 or assd@govst.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Convocation is Governors State University's annual ceremony that marks the official beginning of the academic year. This university tradition brings together faculty, staff, students, and university leadership to celebrate our shared mission and recommit ourselves to supporting student success.
The ceremony provides an opportunity to welcome new members of our community, recognize institutional accomplishments, and set priorities for the year ahead.
Convocation is open to all members of the Governors State University community, including:
- New and returning students
- Faculty
- Staff
- University leadership
- Special guests and community partners
Participation is strongly encouraged as we come together to celebrate the beginning of a new academic year.
The program may include:
- Academic procession
- Welcome remarks
- Presidential address
- Recognition of new faculty and staff
- Introduction of university leadership
- Student and faculty presentations
- Recognition of university accomplishments and milestones
- Special awards and acknowledgments
- Closing remarks
The ceremony is designed to celebrate our collective accomplishments and reinforce our commitment to student success and academic excellence.
Convocation will take place in the Center for Performing Arts (CPA).
Doors will open approximately 30 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony (12:30 p.m.).
Event staff and volunteers will be available to assist attendees with seating and directions.
The ceremony is expected to last approximately 90 minutes, concluding at 2:30 p.m.
Parking will be available in campus lots surrounding the entrance of the Main Building D.
Accessible parking spaces will be available for those requiring accommodation.
Additional parking instructions and a campus map can be found online prior to the event.
Yes. Faculty, staff, students, retirees, and invited guests are welcome to attend.
Any guest registration requirements will be communicated in advance.
Business casual or university-branded attire is recommended.
Faculty participating in the academic procession should wear academic regalia if requested.
Convocation symbolizes the beginning of a new academic year and serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to foster a welcoming, inclusive, and student-centered environment.
As one university community, we gather to celebrate our mission, strengthen our connections, and prepare for a successful year ahead.
Welcome to the 2026–2027 academic year. Together, we will continue to inspire, empower, and support every Jaguar's success.
#GSUProud #WeAreGovState
Register for the Student Convocation Ceremony!
Convocation is an official Governors State University tradition that welcomes students to the start of the academic year. Many courses will be released during this time to allow students to attend.
Freshmen who attend will receive the cords they will wear when they graduate from Governors State University. These cords represent your journey from the start of your academic experience to Commencement.
We look forward to seeing you there!
University Events Office
1 University Parkway, Room C2316
University Park, IL 60484